ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Benjamin De Leon

Benjamin De Leon: Lifting Talents for Independence 

As a pediatric occupational therapist, Benjamin De Leon, OTD, OTR, has the privilege of working with children and young adults, assisting each person to achieve their greatest independence in self-care tasks in the home and skills needed to enhance participation in meaningful activities at school. Working in the home health setting for Cornerstone Pediatric Therapy in Dallas, Texas, Benjamin treats children with diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome, among many others. He also treats clients who are experiencing difficulties related to self-feeding, self-regulation, and sensory integration, among others.

Unlike typical clinical environments, the home health setting requires a greater degree of flexibility and independence. Benjamin utilizes his strong organization and management skills to semi-independently create and execute treatment plans, coordinate schedules, communicate with parents—and pivot when needed. Currently, he is a fieldwork educator for a Baylor OTD student. About halfway through his mentorship, he says he has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to share his own professional experience—and, in turn, he has also learned from his OTD student. 

For fellow occupational therapists, working in any setting, Benjamin encourages being intentionally present with clients. 

“Take the time to slow down, to really see the person, and try to notice the things about them that God has given them and that He loves. It’s easy to see each client as a paycheck or a box to check—or to notice the functional deficits they have—and it’s much more challenging to be present and to see the strengths and talents that God has given them, but I believe we are called to do that,” he said. “Never assume what a child can or can’t do. Give them the opportunity to show you what they know, and then what they don’t know, so you can step in and provide your expertise. Most of all, remember that these are the people God has given us to love and serve, and that is a privilege and a responsibility! So, may we love all of God’s children well!”