Hi, I’m Elana!
I am the lead pediatric occupational therapist and founder of OT Associates Chicago, originally from the northern suburbs of Chicago. I earned my Master's of Science degree in occupational therapy at Columbia University in New York. After graduating, I moved back to Chicago and was fortunate to start my career at a prominent private practice where I received recognition for providing exceptional care to my clients along with dedicated mentorship to new graduates and fieldwork students.
I have extensive experience in a variety of settings including outpatient pediatrics, private practice, inpatient rehabilitation, therapeutic preschool and kindergarten, telehealth, in-home and in-school therapy, and was previously certified in Early Intervention allowing me to gain experience in working with children under the age of 3.
I have worked with neurotypical children who need assistance with milestone achievement, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), executive functioning deficits (ADD, ADHD, ODD, Anxiety and emotional regulation), developmental delays, syndactyly, arthrogryposis, dyspraxia, dysgraphia (handwriting), oral motor challenges, and self care skills.
Being able to play a supportive role in a child’s development has fueled my motivation and I look forward to taking a journey with each child to help them overcome any limitations that are out of their control. Their journeys become mine as well. I create a partnership with each family and together we will devise a plan to prioritize and reach goals.
A few things about me. I love the outdoors, gardening with my mom, spending time with my husband, trying out new restaurants, learning new recipes and traveling to new places! I can’t wait to meet you and discuss how together we can help your child build and meet their goals.
Elana Monahemi, MS, OTR/L
Hi, I’m Taylor Grinney!
As the Head of Business Operations, it’s my mission to ensure that all financial, HR, legal, and operational components of the business are running smoothly and are equipped to scale as we hire and expand our footprint throughout the greater Chicagoland area. I also have a deep passion for building a culture at OTAC that empowers our team to bring their best self to work every day, helping them grow both professionally and personally during their tenure here.
Throughout my career, I’ve always been someone who loves to build things and help achieve goals at scale. Here at OTAC, I’m lucky enough to help a company that has those aspirations of growth while making a massive impact on the Chicagoland community. I’m also working alongside my wife and best friend which makes it all even better.
Outside of work, I’m an avid golfer, snowboarder, musician, and foodie, and will travel to any location that has a combination of those things.
Taylor Grinney, Head of Business Operations
Hi, I’m Taylor Kaleta!
Taylor Kaleta, OTR/L and Health Coach
OT Clinical Supervisor and Department Lead
Taylor graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a masters degree in Occupational Therapy. Over the years she has worked in a variety of settings such as private schools, daycares, homes, and clinics. Taylor was previously the lead therapist of the occupational therapy department at one of Chicago’s top pediatric private practices where Elana received mentorship from her. Ever since, they have worked closely together! Taylor is the current head of the OT department at OTAC and provides supervision to all clinicians in addition to treatment to children.
Taylor enjoys providing individual and group services and has experience with children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, fine and gross motor deficits, sensory processing disorder, and executive functioning challenges. Along with providing services, Taylor loves mentoring and teaching new graduates and students. Taylor is also a certified health coach passionate about family wellness and taking a holistic approach to addressing a child's needs. Taylor lives in Chicago and enjoys triathlons, trying new coffee shops, and spending time by the lake.
Hi, I’m Hannah Swirnow!
Hannah Swirnow, OTR/L
Senior Occupational Therapist
I am excited to work with the team at OT Associates! I am originally from the greater New York area and have happily called Chicago home since 2021. I am deeply committed to partnering with children and their families to support the development of skills that foster confidence, independence, and growth.
I earned my MS in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University. My training and professional experience span a range of pediatric settings, including acute care, telehealth, school-based, and home-based services. I have pursued specialized training with a focus on executive function–based challenges and self-regulation skills. I also have advanced training in addressing functional impairments related to anxiety and enjoy supporting families in building routines that promote confidence and independence in children of all ages and ability levels.
I feel most fulfilled when children develop the foundational skills that allow them to meaningfully participate in their educational environments, peer relationships, and family life.
