Occupational Therapy Team

MariaElena DiStefano OTR/L

MariaElena is an Occupational Therapist at Watch Me Shine. She received her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Sacred Heart University. Her graduate school clinical experiences included pediatric populations in early childhood and preschool settings, as well as adults in an outpatient hospital setting. Since graduating from Sacred Heart University, MariaElena has been working for the New York City Board of Education. She has been servicing early childhood, preschool, and school-age children in both school and outpatient settings. MariaElena has experience working with children with a variety of diagnoses including, but not limited to: ASD, ADHD, sensory processing delays, Down Syndrome, emotional and behavioral challenges, and learning difficulties. She is passionate about providing child-centered intervention that includes play-based activities in naturalistic settings to increase engagement and generalization of skills.

Rachel Drabczyk OTR/L

Rachel received a Masters in Occupational Therapy from Touro University in 2022. Rachel has been working for the New York City Department of Education since 2023. In her role, Rachel has had the privilege of working with early childhood, preschool, and elementary-aged children in both school and outpatient settings. With over two years of experience in pediatrics, she has developed a deep understanding of the diverse needs of children with various diagnoses, including developmental delays, ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, Sensory Processing Disorder, and more. Rachel is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and their families. She believes in a collaborative approach, working closely with other professionals and families to provide the most comprehensive and individualized care possible. Rachel takes pride in creating therapy sessions that are engaging, effective, and tailored to each child’s unique strengths and challenges.

 Jennifer Palase OTR/L

Jennifer Palase received a Masters in Occupational Therapy from Baypath University in 2018. Jennifer has been working for the New York City Department of Education since 2022. She has worked with early intervention, preschool, and school aged children in both preschool and elementary school settings. Jennifer has experience working with various diagnoses, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorder, Global developmental delay, and emotional and behavioral limitations.

Justine Pepe OTR/L

Justine Pepe is a dedicated and passionate Occupational Therapist who has earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Scranton in 2014. With a strong commitment to helping children reach their fullest potential, she has been proudly serving in the Department of Education since 2015. Justine specializes in creating engaging and personalized therapeutic activities, fostering growth in fine motor skills, sensory integration, and functional independence. Her enthusiasm for working with children shines through in her ability to connect with each student and create a supportive, nurturing environment. Justine’s experience and compassion make her a trusted professional in her field.