Committed to advancing the field of occupational therapy through education, evidence-based practice, research and advocacy, Hiral Khatri, OTD, OTR/L (OTD ’17) is a pediatric occupational therapist, and the chief executive officer and founder of the OT Park: Pediatric Therapy Services and Sensory Gym in Morgan Hill, CA. Her experience includes providing evidence-based, client-centered and playful interventions for children with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sensory processing disorder, and other developmental challenges.
“My mission is to empower children and their families with the tools and strategies they need to overcome their sensory, motor and behavioral difficulties, and to celebrate their unique strengths and abilities. I am passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment for children to learn, grow and have fun.” In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Khatri serves as a fieldwork educator. “I share my knowledge and skills with aspiring and fellow occupational therapists, and promote the values and principles of neurodiversity-affirming OT,” she says.
Innovation and Entrepreneurism
Dr. Khatri has been recognized as one of the top 100 visionaries in the field by the International Forum for Advancement in Healthcare. She also received the Occupational Therapy Entrepreneur of the Year award from the Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC). At OT Park, a practice that focuses on children with neurodiverse conditions, one of Dr. Khatri’s innovations was the creation of an activity box that provides children with the necessary items to improve their cognitive, motor and social skills.
“Opening a pediatric occupational therapy clinic was always a dream, and now I am helping many children. Seeing them smile, grow and succeed makes all the demanding work worth it,” she says. “I encourage all students and healthcare practitioners to believe in their skills and bring possibilities to life! In a world full of negativity, it is essential to be the light that shines through the darkness. We all have the power to make a positive impact, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem.”
Leadership
Dr. Khatri is a passionate leader in the field of OT. Current and past roles in state, national and international OT associations include:
- Ambassador for American Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee (AOTPAC)
- Director for OTAC Region Three
- Chair of the membership committee for both the Asian Pacific Heritage OT Association and the Association for Asian Pacific Islanders in Occupational Therapy
- Mentor in the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity
In December 2024, she was appointed to serve a second, two-year term on the AOTPAC board as director for Region Five. “This appointment is a true honor, and I’m excited to continue my work in advocating for our profession at the national level,” she states.
Path to OT
Dr. Khatri says her journey in occupational therapy began with the push and unwavering support of her parents. “Through my patience, passion and dedication, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in OT. In India, OT was not a well-known field, and I was determined to change that,” she says. “My journey continued with pursuing an OTD program and working as a volunteer. These experiences allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I am grateful for the support of my family, mentors and colleagues who have helped me along the way. I am excited to continue making a positive impact in the field of OT.”
