Oct. 21, 2019 (DES MOINES, Iowa) – Optimae LifeServices Inc. announced today Ashley Adams, director of Optimae Rehabilitation Services, has been selected as OT of the Year by the Iowa Occupational Therapy Association (IOTA).
As noted in her nomination letter from IOTA president Steve Bowen, Adams spearheaded Optimae’s creation of Iowa’s first rehabilitation clinic that focuses on helping individuals with mental illness and intellectual disabilities acquire or relearn the skills they need to lead productive, independent lives through occupational therapy services.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Ashley on this project,” said Sheryl Gill, chief operating officer of Central Iowa Services at Optimae. “She created the vision for a specialized OT program for persons with mental health needs, presented it to the company leadership and has successfully implemented the program as our newest line of business.”
In addition to the creation of Optimae’s Rehabilitation Services program, IOTA recognized Adams for her advocacy of the occupational therapy profession and her dedication to mental health awareness across the state.
“This effort increases visibility of OT in mental health practice leading to greater understanding of our work and purpose,” Bowen wrote. “Combining her professional efforts to expand occupational therapy in Iowa and promoting OT through work and advocacy, it is evident that Ashley Adams be recognized by the Iowa Occupational Therapy Association as the OT of the Year.”
Adams was recognized at the Association’s state conference in Waterloo Sept. 27.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to start Optimae’s occupational therapy program,” Adams said. “At Optimae, we continue to provide exceptional mental health services in an ever‐evolving health care landscape, allowing our customers to live their best life, which is what OT is all about. We wouldn’t be where we are today without our wonderful team of occupational therapy professionals and staff.”
