Caitlin Cassidy, OTR/L, NBC-HWC
Hi, I’m Caitlin!
I’m a licensed occupational therapist and National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) who supports individuals navigating the physical, emotional, and lifestyle challenges that can come with a major health change. My work focuses on the whole person—not just the medical diagnosis—to help clients cultivate greater resilience, balance, and confidence throughout their health journey.
Why is this work so important to me? Because I’ve been there, too. I know what it’s like to need support finding positivity, confidence, courage, and peace while navigating a health challenge. That experience is what inspired me to create the kind of support I once needed myself.
My Story
I first visited the doctor after noticing I couldn’t fully smile on one side. Thinking it was minor, I was shocked, terrified, and overwhelmed to learn I had a brain tumor—initially thought to be an acoustic neuroma, but later diagnosed as a facial nerve hemangioma. I chose to “watch and wait,” but six months later, as my symptoms worsened and the tumor had grown, I decided to have surgery in the summer of 2022.
Waking up with complete left-sided facial paralysis was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. My face didn’t feel like my own, and even simple daily interactions became emotionally overwhelming. I felt disconnected, frustrated, and unsure of what the future would hold. Navigating the healthcare system added extra stress—seeking multiple opinions, making decisions with conflicting advice, and trying to find my way forward while managing fear and uncertainty. Five months after surgery, I saw the first signs of movement—a tiny twitch—and that moment brought a sense of hope I hadn’t felt in months. From there, I made slow but steady progress. I’m grateful for how far I’ve come and remain positive as my path continues, finding meaning and growth even amidst ongoing challenges.
Through this experience, I learned firsthand how challenging it can be to find emotional support, guidance, and motivation while facing a health challenge. That’s why I’m here—to help you build new habits and create lasting change so you can reclaim peace and joy in your life. With a little laughter and a whole lot of encouragement, one step at a time.
My Approach
My approach combines my clinical background as an occupational therapist, professional coaching training, and lived experience to provide personalized, whole person support alongside medical care. I work with individuals navigating the emotional, social, and day to day challenges that can come with a health challenge, with a particular focus on supporting those navigating facial paralysis and synkinesis.
Our work may focus on:
Processing difficult emotions in a safe, supportive space
Managing stress and anxiety through nervous system regulation
Building confidence through changes in self-image and social interactions
Creating sustainable routines that support your well-being
Setting goals and moving forward with guidance and accountability
Want To Learn More?
Click below to book a complimentary 30-minute consultation. Let’s get to know each other, talk about what matters to you, and see if working together feels like the right next step on your journey.
Contact Me
Have questions or want to connect? Send me a message and I’ll get back to you!
