Dr. Christine E. James
Occupational Therapist OTD OTR-L
Chicago,IL
Summary
Professional with experience in delivering comprehensive occupational therapy services in educational settings. Skilled in developing individualized treatment plans, enhancing fine motor skills, and promoting sensory integration. Strong focus on collaboration with educators and families to achieve optimal student outcomes. Adaptable and reliable with commitment to fostering supportive and inclusive learning environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
School Based Occupational Therapist
Chicago Public Schools
Chicago, Illinois
12.2013 - Current
- Implementation of evidence‑based therapeutic interventions that strengthen fine motor, self‑help, and functional participation skills across educational environments.
- Participation in interdisciplinary collaboration by aligning therapeutic strategies with instructional goals to maximize student performance and educational outcomes.
- Guiding parents and caregivers through ongoing consultation, empowering them to reinforce therapeutic practices across home and community settings.
- Supporting multidisciplinary play-based assessments for early childhood and private school students.
- Implementation of adaptive equipment, ensuring appropriate selection, fit, and functional integration for students with diverse needs.
- Designing classroom accommodations that support equitable access to curriculum and school activities for students with disabilities.
- Providing mentorship, coaching, and best-practice guidance for newly assigned occupational therapists.
- Active participation in professional development focused on improving student experience and organizational culture.
PRN Occupational Therapist
Evergreen Health and Rehabilitation Center
Chicago, Illinois
02.2014 - 05.2020
- Provided interventions and treatments to improve patient abilities to perform daily activities, manage symptoms and prevent injury.
- Developed patient education materials on ergonomics and injury prevention, promoting wellness in community.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure cohesive approach to patient care, optimizing overall outcomes.
- Coordinated discharge planning efforts alongside case managers to ensure seamless transitions between care providers upon leaving facility.
Occupational Therapist
Mercy Hospital and Medical Center- Acute Rehab Unit
Chicago, Illinois
06.2013 - 11.2013
- Developed individualized treatment plans based on patient assessments and therapy goals.
- Implemented therapeutic activities to enhance patients' physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient care and rehabilitation outcomes.
- Communicated patient progress to physicians, referral sources, and other clinical staff to coordinate patient's treatment programs, and discharge planning.
Ophthalmology Technician
University of Chicago Medical Center
Chicago, Illinois
10.2007 - 08.2010
- Operated advanced diagnostic equipment, including optical coherence tomography and visual field analyzers, ensuring accurate results.
- Conducted comprehensive patient assessments and histories to support ophthalmologists in diagnosis and treatment plans.
- Supported surgical procedures by setting up instruments, calibrating equipment, and providing assistance as needed during operations.
Education
Doctor of Occupational Therapy - Occupational Therapy
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT 05.2001 -
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL05-2013
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
The Ohio State University
Columbus, OH06-2007
Registered Behavior Technician Certification - Applied Behavioral Analysis
Illinois State University
Normal, IL 05.2001 -
Assistive Technology Certification -
California State University
Northridge, CA 05.2001 -
Skills
School‑Based Practice: Skilled in IEP collaboration, classroom observation, and educationally relevant intervention planning
Classroom Accommodations and Assistive Technology: Experience with assistive technology assessment and integration of classroom accommodations to improve access, participation, and functional independence
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Extensive experience working closely with teachers, clinicians, and administrators to support student success
Family & Caregiver Coaching: Provides guidance to promote carryover of strategies across home and community settings
Professional Collaboration: Actively participates in team meetings, problem‑solving sessions, and IEP development
Mentorship & Leadership: Supporting the development of new therapists and fieldwork students
Cultural & Trauma‑Informed Practice: Applies sensitive, student‑centered approaches to support emotional and behavioral regulation
Affiliations
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
- University of Montana
- Active Member since November of 2024
Timeline
PRN Occupational Therapist
Evergreen Health and Rehabilitation Center
02.2014 - 05.2020
School Based Occupational Therapist
Chicago Public Schools
12.2013 - Current
Occupational Therapist
Mercy Hospital and Medical Center- Acute Rehab Unit
06.2013 - 11.2013
Ophthalmology Technician
University of Chicago Medical Center
10.2007 - 08.2010
Doctor of Occupational Therapy - Occupational Therapy
The University of Montana
05.2001 -
Registered Behavior Technician Certification - Applied Behavioral Analysis
Illinois State University
05.2001 -
Assistive Technology Certification -
California State University
05.2001 -
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
Chicago State University
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
The Ohio State University