
LLA Spotlight: Valerie Barnes
We have amazing therapists at LLA and want to showcase them to you! This week, meet Valerie Barnes!
Valerie is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant has been with LLA since the beginning! She serves students in Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools. She chose to become a therapist because she loves working with kids and her daughter had OT. She thought it just looked like fun and fit her personality. One of her favorite things about being a therapist is definitely the kids!
Let’s get to know Valerie better!
Would you rather have super strength or the ability to fly?
Flying!!! I would be at the beach every weekend!
What is your favorite color?
Yellow
What is your best advice for parents who are embarking on a journey with therapy with their kiddo?
Celebrate all the gains. Keep your eyes on what they can do and not what they are struggling with.
What is your favorite team?
The Mighty, Mighty, Mighty Cleveland Browns
What is the funniest thing a kid has ever said to you in therapy?
I once had a 1st grader ask me what was wrong with my neck. As you get older you end up with a dangling chicken neck, something for you young folks to look forward to, anyway I explained that phenomenon to him. He then stated, ” Well you might try a scarf.” I laughed so hard I almost fell out of my chair.
What is your best advice for kids?
Take your time when making life decisions, but not so much time that you end up living in your parents basement for 10 years.
What is your favorite inspirational quote?
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere.
Are you an early riser or night owl?
Early riser
What is the best advice you have ever received?
People first!!!
What is your favorite season?
Summer! Love the sun and the warmth.
Tune in to our next Spotlight to meet another one of our wonderful therapists!