About Rochester Occupational Therapy Services
Rochester Occupational Therapy Services was founded by Valerie Haack, a New York State licensed occupational therapist. Valerie is a Rochester native and wanted to use her experience as an occupational therapist to create a business that would fill the growing need for services in the community that she calls home.
Valerie Haack, MS, OTR/L
Owner, Occupational Therapist
Valerie earned her bachelor’s in health sciences with a minor in sociology and her master’s in occupational therapy from Duquesne University. Valerie is experienced in providing occupational therapy to a variety of diagnoses and ability levels ranging across the life span. Valerie is passionate about researching and developing effective, engaging occupational therapy techniques to help clients participate in activities that bring them purpose.
Valerie has extensive experience working on sensory processing skills and providing feeding therapy to help clients incorporate a wider variety of foods into their diets. She has years of experience working with behavioral challenges, significant medical diagnoses, and providing group therapy. Valerie grew up in Webster, NY, and now lives in the city of Rochester with her husband. In her free time, Valerie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, running with her dog, gardening, and teaching yoga.
Jackie Lazzaro, OTD, OTR/L, PCES
Occupational Therapist
As an occupational therapist, Jackie has served individuals of all ages with a variety of needs. Jackie holds a bachelor’s in allied health sciences with a minor in psychology from the University of Connecticut and a doctorate in occupational therapy from Belmont University. Her passion in services for caregivers culminated in her doctoral capstone which focused on community education and program development to support the health and well being of family caregivers.
Throughout her career, Jackie has obtained practice area emphasis in adult rehabilitation post brain injury and pediatric post-concussion care in the acute, outpatient, and community settings. She has also completed ongoing education to obtain her Pregnancy and Postpartum Certified Exercise Specialist credentials. Jackie is passionate about helping her clients develop skills to optimally participate in activities that bring them joy. Originally from Long Island, NY, Jackie now resides in West Irondequoit with her husband, three children, and dog.
Liana Bucciarelli, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Liana achieved her dual degrees at the University of Buffalo with a bachelor’s in occupational science and a master’s in occupational therapy. She has experience in management and as an Academic Fieldwork Clinical Instructor to graduate students earning their degrees in occupational therapy. She has completed specialized training in neurological rehabilitation approaches for the pediatric population and is certified in the TR-EAT method of feeding therapy, assisting clients having difficulty with mealtime as it relates to utensil use, behavior, positioning and oral motor skills.
Liana is a native of Rochester, New York and is excited to work with and help the families in her hometown.
Amanda Wetmore, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Amanda earned her dual degrees at Ithaca College with a bachelor’s in occupational science and a master’s in occupational therapy along with minors in Psychology and Health Policy & Management. In school she gained experience in a variety of settings, including an inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient, NICU, ICU and aquatic therapy.
Since graduating Amanda has worked with children from birth to 12th grade in the home, community and school settings. She has experience working with children with various diagnoses and abilities and recently completed ongoing education in reflex integration. She also has experience as an Academic Fieldwork Clinical Instructor to graduate students earning their degrees in occupational therapy. Amanda loves helping children and their families work towards their goals and reach their potential. Amanda is new to Rochester and is looking forward to exploring all the city has to offer.