therapists

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
Amy Zier, M.S., OTR/L started Amy Zier & Associates, Inc. 14 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. Today, Amy is a third-year Ph.D. student of the ICDL Graduate School, studying developmental disorders and infant mental health. 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 is completing the DIR® certificate program. Amy has extended her practice to Italy and has spent the last year 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
 
Jennifer Hein, OTR/L
Jennifer Hein, OTR/L, is a senior clinician who specializes in working with children and families using the DIR®/Floortime™ and sensory integration theoretical models. She is certified in the use of the sensory integration praxis tests and is completing her DIR certification. In addition, she is earning a doctorate in infant developmental health. She is passionate about teaching health care professionals through community presentations and is an Instructor at the Erikson Institute, where she teaches a class in Developmental Interventions.  In addition to her work, Jennifer maintains close relationships with her family and friends and enjoys spending time at "Wiggly Field" with her dog.  jennifer@amyzier.com

Angie Evola, M.S., OTR/L
Angie Evola, M.S., OTR/L, is a senior clinician. She earned a master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has received extensive mentoring in sensory integration and the DIR®/Floortime™ model of treatment and is in the process of completing the certificate program. Angie is certified in the Therapeutic Listening program and originally began training in the DIR model over 10 years ago working with with kids in the school and home setting as a therapeutic aide.  Angie strongly believes in involving the entire family in the therapeutic process and values the importance of collaborating regularly with school professionals, caregivers and other disciplines to ensure the best care.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time travelling with her family and is an avid runner.


Michaja Prendergast, M.S., OTR/L
Michaja Prendergast, M.S., OTR/L received her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Western Michigan University. Specializing in pediatrics, she has received training in the areas of sensory processing, biomechanical and neurological rehabilitation. She is certified in therapeutic listening and has actively participated in the DIR® certificate program. Michaja has great passion for working with children and collaborating with families to see positive changes in children's lives. She is committed to creating new and innovative ways to serve children and families in non traditional settings, especially when she can incorporate her active pastimes of sports and being outdoors.

Michaja enjoys traveling and exploring Chicago, especially while on the hunt for new cafe's. 

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. 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 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

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 organized and running smoothly for everyone.  She arranges and heads tours of the clinic for visiting families.  To contact Helen you may call 773-755-7791 or e-mail helen@amyzier.com. You can also visit her in the 2nd floor 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.

David Spala, Staff Accountant
David manages the billing office and can help any questions you may have about Insurance, whether it's finding out what your coverage for out of network OT services look like or whether you just need some help understanding your current coverage, Dave is here to help.  He also handles any questions you may have about the billing process.  David can be reached at 773-755-7793 or dave@amyzier.com.  Prefer speaking face to face?  Dave is also available to meet with you in person.  There's no appointment necessary, simply visit him on the third floor and he will be able to help you.