Ashley Schilling, OTR

Meet Ashley, an occupational therapist with 16 years of pediatric experience who made the move from the Fort Worth area to West Texas. While relocating meant being closer to family, it also introduced her to a community where pediatric therapists are truly needed. Ashley quickly built a full caseload and now serves children and families in the Amarillo area, where access to therapy can make a life-changing difference.

Helping the Whole Family Succeed

For Ashley, home health is about much more than working one-on-one with a child. "One of my favorite things about pediatrics is getting to know the whole family, not just the patient," she says. "Parents don't always know how to support their child, and it's so rewarding to help build their confidence. Everyone wants to see that child succeed, and even siblings love being part of the progress."

After spending nine years working in schools, Ashley was ready for a different kind of impact. "In home health, you really get to focus on the child," she explains. "You have more time, you can collaborate easily with PTs and speech therapists, and you get to see meaningful progress because you're working alongside the family in their everyday environment." Her background in the school system also helps families better understand and advocate for the educational services their children need, while she addresses the medical side of development at home.

Feeling Welcome in West Texas

Ashley has also discovered that life in West Texas is exactly what her family was looking for. "I don't miss the city at all," she says. "Where I live now has such a small-town feel. The traffic is easy, I feel safe, and because my visits are close together, I have more time with my own family." She also appreciates the welcoming community and the commitment she sees from local families. "The families of my patients want to learn. They want the best for their children."

For clinicians considering a move, Ashley believes West Texas offers the best of both worlds: meaningful work and a better quality of life. "The need here is real, and you know you're making a difference every day. At the same time, life feels simpler. You're close to family, close to the outdoors, and you have the time to enjoy both your career and your life."