Our Team

Dan Medrano, Licensed Occupational Therapist (OT/L) is a proud Lobo with 17 years of experience as an OT, including 14 years serving individuals on the Developmental Disabilities Waiver (DD Waiver). Raised in Albuquerque, Dan started his career as a maintenance mechanic, but his lifelong enthusiasm for fitness and nutrition along with his desire to assist others attain optimal health jumpstarted his transition to occupational therapy. Dan’s research has been published in the Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Journal and he is a strong supporter of accessibility and self-advocacy for his clients. Dan has experience with a myriad of diagnoses and settings with a particular interest in the treatment of sensory integration disorders, biomechanical dysfunction and community integration. He promotes continuous research, education and collaboration to ensure the Medrano Therapy Group is providing the most effective and applicable interventions for the people we serve.

Member of AOTA and NMOTA

---

Ellyn Medrano, Licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L), grew up in Albuquerque, attained her Bachelor’s in Business Administration in 1988 and offers over 25 years of business experience, including creating and implementing business plans for individuals with disabilities through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). Her OT experience includes inpatient mental health and rehabilitation following hospitalization. She is certified in Interactive Metronome, IM Home and Mental Health First Aid and is focused on using research and evidence to support her interventions. Ellyn is passionate about helping people live life to the fullest through exploration of skills and participation in community and the natural environment.

Member of AOTA and NMOTA

 

---

Manuel Valenzuela, Licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L), is a native New Mexican, multimedia artist and former business owner with a passion for exploring an individual’s skills and interests for self-expression. Manuel has experience with a wide variety of diagnoses in both in-patient and out-patient settings, including completing his fieldwork level II under Dan Medrano, OT/L with the DD Waiver and working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder through the Very Special Arts Program. He has pursued continuing education in assistive technology and holds a certification in Mental Health First Aid. Manuel is bilingual and proficient in written and spoken Spanish.

Member of NMOTA

 

 

---

Casey Gonzalez, Licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L), is a two-time Iraq war US Army Veteran and New Mexico native growing up working with cattle and harvesting wheat in Clovis. Initially, Casey wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement with the desire to help, protect and serve the community, supported by strong tenets learned from years in the martial arts. This was one of many factors leading to his career in the US Army. Upon completion of his 2nd tour in Iraq, it was suggested that Casey pursue Occupational Therapy. As Casey researched this profession, he saw how his skills and aspirations could contribute to enhancing the lives of others. Casey’s experience consists of working with various diagnoses and ages from infants to elders. Casey is fluent in both written and spoken Spanish.

 

---

Liz Madrid, Registered and Licensed Occupational Therapist (MOTR/L) is a native New Mexican, raised in Albuquerque who completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science at the University of New Mexico and obtained her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from UNM School of Medicine. Liz is a caring and creative individual who enjoys helping others achieve their full potential through skilled occupational therapy services. Liz has experience in working in an outpatient rehab setting specializing in hand therapy at UNMH, has had fieldwork experiences at the VA and at Carrie Tingley Hospital. Liz has worked in the DDWaiver for 2 years and has enjoyed every minute of it. Liz is bilingual and proficient in written and spoken Spanish.