135. OT’s Role in Vision Remediation & Concussion Recovery

Dr. Alicia Reiser, OTD, MS OTR/L is an occupational therapist with over 24 years of experience and the owner of A Rise Above Occupational Therapy Services in the Lehigh Valley, PA. She earned her clinical doctorate from Salus University (Drexel University) with a specialization in vision remediation. An active scholar and adjunct faculty at Drexel, Dr. Reiser bridges the gap between neurological rehabilitation, vision therapy, concussion recovery, ADHD care, and nervous system regulation. She is the co-owner of NeurOT Consulting and co-author of 100 Visually Loaded Activities and Occupations. In this episode, Dr. Alicia Reiser explains the critical but often overlooked connection between vision and the brain following a concussion. She discusses how visual inefficiencies (such as convergence insufficiency, double vision, and blurry vision) can mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms, hinder recovery, and cause chronic symptoms like headaches and dizziness. Dr. Reiser highlights the unique role of Occupational Therapy in vision remediation, the importance of interdisciplinary care with neuro-optometrists, and her work to establish a national Community of Practice within AOTA to standardize vision rehabilitation. She also provides actionable advice for patients and families navigating concussion recovery. Resources Mentioned by Dr. Reiser Find a Neuro-Optometrist: College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) – www.covd.org (Look for the "board certified in vision therapy" box) Book (Co-authored by Dr. Reiser): 100 Visually Loaded Activities and Occupations (Available for pre-order via NeurOT Consulting: https://neurotconsulting.com/) Textbook Mentioned: Understanding and Managing Vision Deficits: A Guide for Occupational Therapists by Dr. Mitchell Scheiman, OD https://www.routledge.com/Understandi... Continuing Education Course: Vis Con (through CiaoSeminars) – https://www.ciaoeminarss.com AOTA Community of Practice (CoP) for Vision Rehabilitation: Enrollment Survey Link: https://forms.aota.org/forms/vision_c... Original Discussion Board Request: https://communot.aota.org/discussion/... Websites & Social Media Dr. Reiser’s Practice: www.ariseaboveoccupationaltherapyservices.com Instagram: @ariseaboveot Facebook: @ariseaboveot Consulting & Book (with Megan Schneider): www.neurotconsulting.com Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-c...