From Rehab Tech to Occupational Therapist: Breland’s Path Forward

 Her journey began long before she became a clinician. It started with a single opportunity that changed everything. During her first semester at Southeastern University, Breland needed to interview and observe someone in her chosen profession. 

“I ended up at Ochsner on O’Neal, interviewing and observing an occupational therapist who specialized in hand therapy,” she says. While she was there, she learned about a rehab tech opening. “So I applied, interviewed and got the job.”

Building Skills from the Ground Up

Working as a rehab tech gave Breland a front row seat to the pace and rhythm of therapy care. "You have to be attentive, and you have to be an active participant in the patient's care while assisting," she explains.

The role helped her develop multitasking skills and provided valuable experience managing clinic flow. “When I transitioned into being a clinician, I already knew how to manage a caseload, manage my schedule and handle all the different tasks that have to happen in a day.”

Finding Fulfillment in Pediatric Care

As she grew in her career, Breland discovered her passion for pediatric therapy. Helping children make progress motivates her every day.

“The most fulfilling part of my job is watching the kids and the parents get excited when they see progress and growth,” she says.

She loves the collaborative nature of the work. “It is very fulfilling to see that what I am doing is working in session, and that they are using it at home to continue that progress.”

Supported Every Step of the Way

From her early days as a rehab tech through graduate school and beyond, Breland says she always felt supported. 

“My leaders, supervisors and all the therapists I worked with were very supportive,” she says. Their insight helped her understand what graduate school and the profession would require.

In her first year as a therapist, Breland felt empowered to bring new ideas forward. 

"There have been several programs I've wanted to implement within the Baton Rouge area, and I have had the full support and encouragement from my leaders to branch out and try new things". Two of her programs have already launched successfully, including a summer handwriting series for children.

Learning, Growing and Finding Your Path

For those interested in occupational therapy or rehabilitation careers, Breland recommends starting with observation and connection. 

“My biggest piece of advice would be observing, networking and talking to people in that field,” she says.

Her own experience shows how powerful those first steps can be. “Rehab tech was a steppingstone for me. It helped project my career into the future.”

Reflecting on her journey, she recognizes how much those early experiences mattered. 

“Being a rehab tech opened doors to so many opportunities and experiences. I met and worked with people I never would have otherwise, and it shaped who I am as a therapist today.”

Interested in Growing Your Career with Ochsner?

Breland’s story shows how early exposure, supportive leadership and a willingness to explore can transform a single opportunity into a long-term career. Whether you are entering healthcare for the first time or considering your next step, Ochsner offers a place to learn, grow and pursue your purpose.