About Our Therapist
Cara K. Richardson, MS OTR/L
ABOUT OUR THERAPIST
More than 116 million Americans live with chronic pain, surpassing the combined numbers of those with diabetes, cancer, and heat disease. I, too, fall within these statistics and more. Following a car accident at the age of 22, I experienced persistent muscle pain and spasticity. Complicating matters, my joints would sublux or partially dislocate due to hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), a genetic disorder. Joint dislocations then triggered myofascial pain syndrome as muscles worked harder to compensate. Through this journey, I have gained extensive knowledge in various pain reduction methods and, perhaps most importantly, navigating the healthcare system when one feels unheard. Visit Young and Chronic to read about my triumph over managing chronic pain.
Allow me to assist you.
I hold a Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT) from Virginia Commonwealth University and am a licensed and registered Occupational Therapist. Additionally, I am certified in Heart Math for Health Professionals, a stress, pain and anxiety biofeedback method that focuses on heart coherence. (https://www.heartmath.com/)
My Professional and Educational Journey
I've gained valuable clinical experience in outpatient neurology and mental health, contributing to my expertise in teaching Neurological Concepts for Occupational Therapy Assistants and Occupational Therapy with Psychosocial Dysfunction at Tidewater Community College. As a dedicated member of the American Occupational Therapy Association, I am committed to advancing my field.
Before earning my Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy, my academic journey included a Masters in Television at Boston University and a Bachelor of Science in Management with a minor in Film Studies at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana.
My professional background extends to the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, where I was a proud member of The Writer’s Guild West from 2008-2011. The Writer's Guild Strike of 2008 disrupted a potential full-time writing opportunity with The Young and The Restless, leading me to pen Young and Chronic, a narrative chronicling my triumph over managing chronic pain.
In the midst of these professional pursuits, my personal life is enriched by finding comfort in the tranquility of the beach and the thrill of riding a good wave. Additionally, I indulge my passion for captivating movies and immerse myself in well-written shows during an enjoyable binge-watching session.