JULIE TEAL
Owner, OTR CHT
Julie founded Hand Therapy Specialists, Inc in February of 1991. After specializing in hand therapy the previous five years in a hospital setting she felt she could offer a more comprehensive, individualized program for individuals with upper extremity injuries in a private practice setting.
Following graduation from Loma Linda University in 1978, Julie’s first 12 years of practice afforded her the opportunity to gain experience in all areas Occupational Therapy: acute care, physical rehabilitation, mental health, pediatric consulting, management and hand therapy. Given this varied exposure, her focus narrowed and hand therapy became her dream. This dream was realized when she became a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) in 1991, the first year certification was offered to experienced therapists and with the founding of her private practice.
Julie particularly enjoys working with children and the elderly. Her areas of expertise within the specialty of hand therapy are trauma, arthritis and repetitive injury, especially as it relates to musicians.
The specialized skill of splinting the upper extremity is one of her loves. A well constructed, customized splint requires creativity. Each splint is as different as each hand; Julie knows that a well constructed splint enhances progress ultimately making a big difference in patients’ recovery. She has shared her skill locally by teaching beginning and advanced splinting at Pacific University for over 12 years.
Julie believes the key to therapy is encouraging each patient to see the positive by teaching them to recognize and celebrate their progress on a day to day basis.
Julie has enjoyed volunteering for the The Arthritis Foundation, The Free Clinic of SW Washington and Angel Flight.
Julie enjoys gardening, kayaking and traveling! Those who know her well know she is a fan of Walt Disney and his creative accomplishments. He continues to inspire her with the following quote: “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
Education
Loma Linda University – BS in Occupational Therapy
Certification
Certified Hand Therapist
Memberships
American Society of Hand Therapists
American Occupational Therapy Association
Oregon Occupational Therapy Association