Experienced and knowledgeable therapists –Maximizing the potential for progress.
At the heart of all we do are the therapists at Amy Zier & Associates. Each possesses a passion for working with children and families. Many therapists have furthered their training beyond a specialization in pediatrics. In addition, all therapists who join our practice must complete an extensive apprenticeship with our most experienced senior occupational therapists and also receive extensive training outside of our field in the area of psychology. While this additional training is not mandated by our profession, we believe it is essential to the quality of our practice and our continued response to the changing developmental trajectories of the children.
Because there are so many advances being made in the field of pediatric therapy, our therapists continue to dedicate themselves to continuing education, training and certifications. As a result of our expertise, we are also asked to speak at key conferences, seminars and events in the United States and around the world.
In addition, our therapists are enthusiastic participants in the progress of the children and believe in sharing our work and insight into child development. We believe in what we do.
Amy Zier, M.S., OTR/L, Ph.D. (c)
Amy Zier, M.S., OTR/L, PhD (c) started Amy Zier & Associates, Inc. 16 years ago, in response to the limitations of traditional therapy settings and her ability to provide innovative, quality occupational therapy to children and families. Her vision of unique spaces, coupled with the highest quality therapist training, and the advantages of employing therapists passionate about their role in supporting children and families became the essence of her practice. Amy is a PhD candidate, at the ICDL Graduate School, specializing in developmental disorders and infant mental health. She is now completing her dissertation, a unique research study analyzing variables impacting early diagnosis of Sensory Processing Disorders. She has special interest in therapeutic listening programs, visual-spatial development and forming an alliance with parents that empowers them to help their child. She has her SIPT certification and has completed the DIR® certificate program. Amy has extended her practice to Italy and has spent the last three years teaching and supporting children with developmental challenges in schools, hospitals and private settings across Italy.
Amy is married and has three young children. In her free time Amy practices yoga, loves to run and travel to new and interesting places.
amy@amyzier.com
Hillary Gamoff, M.S., OTR/L
Hillary Gamoff, M.S., OTR/L, received her bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison and her masters degree from University of Illinois at Chicago. She has received training in the areas of sensory integration, the DIR/Floortime approach and Therapeutic Listening and is currently completing her DIR certification and Sensory Integration Certification Program. Her passion is working with children and helping them to achieve their highest potential physically, emotionally and socially. Her approach is to treat each child as an individual, always keeping in mind their unique strengths and differences. She strongly believes in the role of family involvement, as well as collaboration with caregivers, teachers and other professionals, as integral to a child's growth and overall success.
When not working, Hillary enjoys practicing yoga, reading, and being outside as much as possible. hillary@amyzier.com
Kathy Flentge, OTR/L
Kathy Flentge, OTR/L, graduated from Utica College of Syracuse University and is a certified "Babies First Massage" instructor. Kathy has a passion for helping children succeed, which includes educating parents, teachers, and others about sensory processing concerns. She is experienced in a variety of settings including home care, schools, medical settings and private clinics, where she has had the opportunity to mentor staff and treat children. Kathy is pursuing a DIR certification and recently received her C1 certificate this fall.
Kathy is happy to have a career where she can be playful, goofy, and share in the little joys of childhood. As a new resident of Chicago, she loves to explore the city, as well as spend time outside, listen to music, and be home with her family. kathy@amyzier.com
Michelle Finder MS, OTR/L received her Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and her Master’s degree from Rush University Medical Center. Upon graduating Michelle received an award for Clinical Excellence in Pediatrics. Michelle has experience working with children in a variety of settings including a private clinical setting, school based setting, and in the home environment through Early Intervention.
Michelle is in the process of completing her DIR certification. She has completed DIR C1, and is now a candidate for DIR CII. Michelle loves coming to work to “play” with her kiddos in a sensory stimulating and fun environment, while also meeting their needs, and encouraging their success. In her free time, Michelle loves to take walks around the city, play with her new pup Gracie, and spend time with her family. michelle@amyzier.com
Vanessa Hayes MS, OTR/L received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from North Park University and a master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has experience providing intervention in a therapeutic school environment specializing in treating children with emotional and behavioral disabilities. She has special interest in childhood mental health as well as the effects of sensory processing on a child’s performance in school and the home. Vanessa enjoys practicing yoga, spending time with friends and family, and playing with her cat in her free time.
Alainya Bandy is an Occupational Therapy Aide. She supports not only individual and group sessions, but is an intgral part of our "Get a Grip" handwriting group, "Cued In" social group and BOOTCAMP. In May of 2011, Alainya received her BSW from Loyola University Chicago and is currently studying in Loyola's graduate dual degree program to acquire masters degrees in social work (MSW, with a specialization in mental health and a focus in children and families) and child and family law (MJ).
In her spare time, Alainya likes to stay active by playing sports, taking part in outdoor activities, practicing yoga, etc. To relax she likes to read and spend time with family and friends. alainya@amyzier.com or 773-755-7791
Everyone at Amy Zier and Associates works together to provide high quality services. In addition to having a great team of therapists, AZA is also supported by an excellent team in the office.
Helen Escobar, Clinic Administrator
As the person who manages intakes, Helen is the first person you'll speak to at AZA. Helen is in charge of managing the day to day operations of the clinic from A to Z, keeping things running smoothly for everyone. She heads & arranges tours of the clinic for visiting families. To contact Helen you may call 773-755-7791 ext 1 or e-mail
helen@amyzier.com. You can also visit her in the office any time if you have questions, concerns or just to chat.
In her free time, Helen enjoys good walks, yoga, reading and listening to music.
Mirela Covic, Billing & Insurance Manager
Mirela can help follow up on claims, check coverage details, consult with an insurance expert (Gail Borgerd) on our families behalf if coverage is denied, and she creates and submits claims and invoices. Mirela is completing her last year at DePaul University and will receive a degree in Management from the College of Commerce with a concentration in Change and Leadership and a minor in Hospitality. To contact Mirela, feel free to email her at
mirela@amyzier.com. She enjoys reading, yoga, outdoor activities, and spending time with her friends and family.
Carol Winkler, Organization Expert
Carol is an organization expert who helps keep all treatment rooms, offices and equipment in tip-top shape and running smoothly. Whether it's identifying and resolving functional issues to sewing up a torn teddy, Carol has a hand in it all! She plays a key role in helping us organize our unique spaces and gives each room that warm, homey touch that sets AZA apart. She's a mother of two grown children, enjoys gardening, traveling and keeps busy at home with the "boys"........her husband and 2 cats. To contact Carol, call 773-755-7791 ext 4 or visit her in the 2nd floor office.