OT Month Spotlight: Priyanka Mohindroo’s Impact on Student Learning
April 30, 2025
As Occupational Therapy Month comes to a close, we’re wrapping up April by spotlighting one of our most dedicated and impactful OTs: Priyanka Mohindroo. For over 10 years, Priyanka has brought compassion, creativity, and deep expertise to her role as a school-based Occupational Therapist with GHR Education.
Inspired by her love of science, psychology, and the holistic approach of OT, she found her passion working with children. She discovered her niche in schools, where she helps students succeed through creativity, play, and personalized support.
Whether she’s turning therapy into fun, collaborating with teachers and families, or celebrating student milestones, Priyanka is committed to making a meaningful difference every day. She finds constant motivation in her students’ growth and the joy they bring to her work.
Outside of her role, Priyanka enjoys time with her family, reading, and traveling whenever she can.
Read on to learn more about Priyanka’s journey, her advice for future OTs, and the rewarding moments that continue to shape her career.
Q: What inspired you to become an Occupational Therapist, and what led you to specialize in school-based therapy?
A: My interest in science and psychology initially led me to explore occupational therapy. As I learned more, it was the holistic approach to healing that inspired me to choose it as a career. When navigating through college and the different populations occupational therapists work with, I was drawn to the pediatric population. When I started working in schools, I realized how happy my work made me, and it has become my niche.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working with students in an educational setting?
A: I love being the person who my students come to for fun. I can easily disguise work as play and help my students succeed in their educational careers. I enhoy the creativity, the feedback I get from my students, and turning work into play all day long.
Q: What’s one memorable moment in your career that stands out as particularly meaningful to you?
A: I can't say there's been just one moment. But every year, when I watch my students graduate, whether it be pre-school, kindergarten, or any graduation, it brings me to tears with happiness to see them succeed and move forward.
Q: What are some of the most common challenges students face that occupational therapy helps to address?
A: My students face challenges across the environment due to their neurological and physical needs. Occupational therapy provides the students with the ability to conquer the smaller obstacles, like being able to sit in a chair, to positive peer interactions, from holding a pencil to typing on a keyboard, from picking up a penny to cutting their food, all of which helps them be the best version of themselves.
Q: How do you collaborate with teachers, parents, and other school staff to support student success?
A: A great advantage to working in a school is that we always work as a team. I constantly communicate with the teachers to see how the students carry over skills learned in therapy to the classroom. I am always learning from all the other staff, including teachers, speech therapists, physical therapists, paraprofessionals, and the child study team. Every professional looks at the child from their perspective, and the diversity helps the students succeed. When it comes to children, the most important team member is the parent. They put their trust in us and it is our job to keep them informed, communicate with them on a regular basis to exchange information, and make them an integral part of the team.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a school-based Occupational Therapist?
A: I would highly recommend occupational therapy as a whole as far as careers are concerned. If someone loves the pediatric population, working in a team and learning everyday, then schools are a great choice. Approach every child with love and respect and remember that they are trying much harder than you to succeed.
Q: What motivates you to make a difference in your students' lives every day?
A: My students motivate me every day. They give me reasons to think beyond what I know, to keep learning, and, most importantly, to have fun while doing it.
Q: What has your experience been like working with GHR Education, and how has the team supported you in your role?
A: GHR has been a great company to work for. They have supported me as needed. I have been with them for over 10 years.
Q: We’d love to know something fun about you outside of your professional life. What is a hobby or interest that brings joy to your days?
A: I love spending time with my family. They bring me the greatest joy. I am a passionate reader and enjoy reading in my spare time. I also love to travel when time allows, whether it’s a quick road trip or flying across the globe.
Priyanka’s dedication, warmth, and creativity shine through in every aspect of her work. Her ability to connect with students, collaborate with teams, and transform challenges into growth reflects the heart of occupational therapy. With each milestone her students achieve, Priyanka continues to make a lasting difference—one filled with care, commitment, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed. Thank you for all that you do, Priyanka!
