Michael Roberts, OTR/L - Occupational Therapist
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Michael Roberts is an occupational therapist with eight years of experience in clinics and educational centers supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He specializes in helping patients develop practical skills for daily living, social engagement, and community participation. Known for his patient-centered approach and collaborative style, Michael works closely with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure therapy is both effective and meaningful. His career reflects a commitment to enhancing independence and quality of life for every person he serves.
Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New York University, where he focused on developmental and cognitive psychology, learning strategies, and behavioral interventions. He then pursued his Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Columbia University, gaining advanced training in adaptive strategies, social skill development, and individualized therapy planning. His education provided the foundation for combining clinical expertise with evidence-based practices to address the diverse needs of patients with IDD.
Michael specializes in social and behavioral adaptation, daily living skills, and self-care training for individuals with IDD. His work includes teaching practical routines, improving interpersonal and communication skills, implementing sensory strategies, and supporting transitions from educational settings to community involvement. He collaborates closely with families and multidisciplinary teams to develop holistic therapy plans that reinforce independence, functional capabilities, and social participation in real-life contexts.
For Michael, working with people with IDD is about more than therapy—it is about advocating for inclusion and independence. He believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to live a self-directed life, participate fully in their community, and engage meaningfully with others. His approach combines practical skill-building with emotional support, aiming to empower patients and their families. Michael sees his work as a way to remove barriers, foster autonomy, and promote equality in access to therapy and social opportunities.
Michael actively contributes to programs at Gateway Counseling Center, where he applies his expertise to strengthen independence, social interaction, and life skills. He values the center’s focus on providing social skills for people with intellectual disabilities, which he sees as crucial for long-term success and integration into the community. In his role, Michael helps develop individualized therapy plans, conducts workshops for families, and mentors staff on adaptive strategies for daily living and social engagement. He ensures that interventions are practical, achievable, and aligned with each patient’s abilities and goals. Michael has witnessed how these programs improve confidence, foster meaningful relationships, and facilitate active participation in community life. For him, being part of Gateway’s initiatives is a way to combine professional practice with real, lasting impact for individuals with IDD and their families.