Krystle Lopez, MScOTR/L, Teletherapy

Krystal Lopez

MScOTR/L

Krystle is a double-board certified and licensed occupational therapist who has been with the FOCUS team since its founding. A native Canadian, she  graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology. In 2009, she earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

Dually growing up in Canada and Fort Myers gave rise to her lifelong love of travel, discovering new places and appreciation for all cultures and ways of life. Practicing occupational therapy in both countries afforded her unique insight into both healthcare systems and cemented her belief in the efficacy of client-centered therapy. In this approach, the aim is always to first view the world from the client’s perspective. It also taught her the vital importance of flexibility – whether it’s in learning a new skill or coping with the unexpected. Stemming from this is her enthusiasm for using occupational science as a means to help kids learn self-regulation in ever-changing environments.

“I became an occupational therapist because it’s a profession that allows people to be their true selves, their best selves,” Lopez explained. “Occupational therapists work to bridge any gap, demolish any barrier standing between a person and their goals and dreams.”

Krystle, who treats patients both in-clinic and in teletherapy sessions, is trained and certified in Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS/ETPS) treatment, Myofascial Release, Therapeutic Listening, Interactive Metronome and the S.O.S. Approach to Feeding. She is also experienced using the Handwriting Without Tears and ALERT programs. A proud member of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT), her special areas of interest are Sensory Integration Solutions, feeding therapy, aquatic therapy, teletherapy and functional life skills coaching.

Early in her career, she was drawn to working primarily in pediatrics.

“I love working with children because their spirit, creativity and innocence is so fresh and bursting with promise,” Lopez said. “They are so proud of themselves when achieving something on which they’ve been working hard – it just beams from every fiber of their being!”

But perhaps her most favorite part is working with parents, equipping and empowering them to help their child develop, learn, be independent and most importantly, be their happiest selves!

“This is the main reason I’ve really fallen in love with teletherapy,” said Lopez. “It offers this unique chance not only to work with kids in their home environment, but also to be hands-on in guiding parents toward workable solutions and strategies for maximum carryover of key life skills.”

Whenever possible, Krystle strives to combine the movement principles of yoga, dance and sports to maximize functional movement, help kids self-regulate and boost their self-esteem. She believes in constantly seeking innovative ways to tap into each child’s strengths and interests, ensuring therapy stays both meaningful and fun.

Aside from occupational therapy, Krystle loves sunshine, dance instruction, traveling, art, holistic health & wellness, Erick, Ethan and their fur baby. She and her husband, Erick, especially enjoy collaborating on bus conversions, van conversions, RV renovations and other creative projects.