About Me

My name is Carmen Smith OTD, OTR/L, and I am the owner of Little Roots OT. I started Little Roots out of a personal and professional passion for helping children establish strong foundational roots for development and lifelong wellness. Having a deep appreciation for how the whole body and relational environment are connected and impact feeding and function, I am eager to provide more collaborative, holistic, and comprehensive care to families. I have been a practicing pediatric occupational therapist since 2018, graduating with a Doctorate from Northern Arizona University. I have worked with diverse populations in pediatrics within outpatient settings and by providing in-home services for infants and toddlers ages 0-3.

I am constantly expanding my knowledge through advanced training in infant development, infant feeding, sensory integration, and more in order to provide individualized, comprehensive and neuro-affirming services. In my spare time, I enjoy yoga, hiking, photography, making new memories with friends and family, trying new restaurants, traveling, and spending time by the beach!

The “Why”

Through my personal wellness journey, I have discovered a deep passion for promoting health and wellness during the early years. As a child and throughout adulthood, I faced many challenges with sleep, body tension, eating and more. I later discovered that these were symptoms of an orofacial myofunctional disorder.

Reflecting on my journey, I can't help but be moved by the thought of what might have been if my family had access to early support and resources to uncover the root cause of these issues. This experience ignited a deep passion within me as a pediatric occupational therapist. I strive to be that source of support to help families uncover the root causes of their struggles, guide them on a trajectory to greater functioning, and collaborate together to chase the WHY to prevent further issues from arising. My goal is to help families ensure their little ones feel better, move better, and connect more so they can grow into the individuals they are destined to be. 

Thank you for being here & I look forward to collaborating with you and your family!

  • Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Human Development from the University of Arizona

    Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Northern Arizona University

  • Total Motion Release

    Sensory Integration

    TummyTime! Method Certified

    Sensory Motor Approach to Feeding

    Modified Baby Led Weaning

    Tethered Oral Tissue Specialty Training: E3 Model of Care®

    Pre and Post Frenectomy Therapy Training

    SOS Approach to Feeding

    Astronaut Training: A Sound Activated Vestibular-Visual Protocol

    Infant Oral Motor Skill Development

    Safe and Sound Protocol

    Therapeutic Listening

"Life is not merely to be alive, but to be well."

- Marcus Valerius Martiali

Questions on how I can help?

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