About Us

I’m a pediatric occupational therapist with a background in psychology and a passion for helping children thrive through play, connection, and individualized support. I love being a professional problem-solver and partnering with families to better understand each child’s unique strengths, needs, and nervous system.

My areas of focus include sensory processing, emotional regulation, executive functioning, social participation, and gross and fine motor development. I take a developmental, holistic, and family-centered approach to create thoughtful, individualized treatment plans that meet children and families where they are.

Outside of work, you’ll find me with my husband, our cats Pumpkin and Casper, and our big puppy Hazelnut—or on a yoga mat, taking or teaching a class. I look forward to getting to know you and your family.

Hi! I’m Karissa! I am a Drake Graduate with a passion for connection, play, and free expression. If I am your child’s OT you will probably see us moving our body and finding ways that support our connection and regulation. I am very passionate about neuroaffirming practices, advocacy, and supporting families in anyway I can. When I am not at Kids Lead you would find me hanging out with my two children, painting,  and enjoying everything the DSM metro has to offer. 

I'm Stephanie Lursen, a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with a passion for helping children build confidence, independence, and success in their daily lives. I have experience working with children from infancy through adolescence and I support a wide range of developmental, sensory, emotional, and behavioral needs, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory processing challenges. 

My clinical interests include sensory integration, feeding therapy, reflex integration, and family-centered care. I have specialized training in MNRI, SOS Feeding Therapy, Beckman Oral Motor Protocol, and the Astronaut Training Protocol. I'm also a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) trained to educate parents and caregivers on the proper selection, installation, and use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts.

I'm dedicated to creating fun, engaging therapy experiences that help children reach their full potential while partnering closely with families every step of the way. 

Outside of work you will find me with my pups Gracie and Chance and either crafting or sewing..

At Kids Lead, we believe that children always do well when they can. We believe that therapy can be fun for the whole family. Our mission is to support not only kids, but their families as kids develop, change, and grow. 

Our goal is to provide pediatric occupational therapy evaluations and treatments that are thoughtful and intentional. We can work together to understand your child's behaviors and needs. We want every family to feel like they have the tools they need to support their children-no matter what this support looks like.