Meet the team

We have a wonderfully unique team of therapists. We encourage them to be creative and authentic in providing individualized treatment to each client. To learn more about the team, check out their bios below!

Meet the Founder

Samantha

Samantha Rothman, MS, OTR/L

Founder, Occupational Therapist

Hello and Welcome!

I am honored that you are considering Play and Purpose to support your family.

With over 13 years of experience in the Occupational Therapy field, I created Play and Purpose in 2021 after many years of feeling burnt out and restricted from corporate-style healthcare.

As a neurodivergent therapist, I  truly “get”  you and your family’s needs. Whether you are seeking therapy for your child or yourself, you deserve to work with someone who understands you and will meet you where you are. I enjoy using a "whole child" approach, including all aspects of being human, especially focusing on emotional and mental health. I am passionate about using child-led and non-compliance-based techniques to promote engagement and self-advocacy skills.

I am certified in the DIR approach and have experience working with children who have unique needs and consulting with schools/parents to ensure great outcomes. Additionally, I enjoy helping parents to advocate for services and programs that may be beneficial to the child's progress. I have advanced training and personal experience to work with childhood trauma, interoception, interpersonal skills, and emotional regulation skills.

I am currently only accepting virtual clients while I support and grow the team. My current interests include: traveling as much as possible, curling up with a good book, increasing my Spanish fluency, using art in therapy, journaling, entrepreneurship, and coaching other private practice owners.

Meet Our Team

Untitled design (96)

Amber Robinson

COTA/L

Amber is a licensed and nationally certified pediatric occupational therapy assistant. She graduated from San Juan College in Farmington, New Mexico. Her experience in pediatrics includes working in schools, outpatient clinics, and in-home care. She enjoys using an individualized play-based approach, focusing on sensory regulation. Outside of work, Amber enjoys spending time with family, going to hockey games, and exploring the beautiful state of Arizona.

Kendyll Taylor, MS, CCC-SLP

Kendyll Taylor

MR, CCC-SLP

Kendyll is a licensed and board-certified pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist. She has been practicing speech therapy in the valley since 2018 and finds her greatest passion in helping children improve their communication skills. The majority of her experience has been working in interdisciplinary outpatient pediatric clinics and providing private services across a variety of settings. Kendyll is also a 2-time Baylor University Alumna but grew up here in Scottsdale. She is looking forward to the opportunity to work alongside your family!

professional pic

Lauren Krueger

Speech Language Pathologist

Lauren is a dedicated Speech Language Pathologist with over a decade of experience in helping individuals of all ages improve their communication skills. She holds a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Nevada State University and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She is committed to empowering her clients to communicate effectively and confidently.

kailee

Kailee McCown

Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Kailee is a pediatric occupational therapist with a passion for supporting children’s growth and independence. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and a Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy. With over 7 years of OT experience and a background in both school-based and home health settings, she has created sensory rooms, developed individualized programs, and partnered with families and educators to promote meaningful progress. Her certifications include ASD Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), Myofascial Release (MFR) Level 1, 200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher (CYT 200), Level 1 Reiki Practitioner, and Primitive Reflex Integration. Outside of work, Kailee enjoys going to car shows with her teenage son, reading, practicing yoga, hiking, and traveling

unnamed (6)

Rochelle Atayde

Admin Assistant

Rochelle resides in the Phillipines and has a BS in Physical Therapy. She supports the team by managing scheduling, billing, and all other exciting admin tasks. She is a self-described introvert and enjoys spending her free time exercising, watching movies and spending time with her dog.