About Our Therapist
Cara K. Richardson, MS OTR/L
ABOUT OUR CLINICAL DIRECTOR:
Cara K. Richardson, MS, OTR/L, brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work as an Occupational Therapist. Living with chronic pain and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) has given her first-hand insight into the challenges of navigating healthcare, managing pain, and developing strategies that truly support daily life. This personal journey fuels her commitment to helping individuals and families feel heard, supported, and empowered. To learn more about Cara’s journey with chronic pain and the OT-based strategies that shaped her approaches, visit Young and Chronic, a site dedicated to her book and future writing on living with and overcoming chronic pain and various health struggles.
Professional Background:
Cara earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a licensed and registered Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). She is also certified in HeartMath for Health Professionals, a biofeedback method for managing stress, pain, and anxiety. Her clinical experience includes outpatient neurology and mental health, and she has taught Neurological Concepts for OT Assistants and OT with Psychosocial Dysfunction at Tidewater Community College. She is an active member of the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Cara’s academic journey also includes a Master of Science in Television from Boston University and a Bachelor of Science in Management with a minor in Film Studies from Tulane University. This unique training in communication, storytelling, and media has enhanced her ability to connect with individuals, use multi-modal teaching methods, and advocate effectively within healthcare and community settings.
OUTSIDE THE CLINIC:
Outside of her professional work, Cara enjoys her family time, the tranquility of the beach, the thrill of riding a good wave on a boogie board, and unwinding with films and well-written shows.