Michelle Atanu, OTR, MOT
Michelle Atanu, OTR, MOT is a pediatric occupational therapist, the CEO of Avilo Pediatric Solutions & Consulting and the Founder of The Neurodiversity Children's Institute (NDCI), a 501(c)(3) organization and in both platforms, she focuses on building an empowered workforce and community to support children with neurodiverse needs.
Since earning her Master of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in 2012, Michelle has worked to advance innovative programs that bridge healthcare, education, and community engagement. Her clinical and community work focuses on supporting child development, sensory processing, behavior regulation, social-emotional wellness, and family-centered care while developing systems that increase access to services and strengthen the workforce serving children with diverse needs.
Michelle’s leadership roles span from her work as the Standards & Practice Chair for the Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA) and as a current Advisory Board Member for PIMA Medical Institute. She is the recipient of the Arc of Fort Bend County Community Awareness Award, was recognized by VoyageHouston Magazine as an Inspiring Business Leader, is the creator of the Neurodiversity Children's Conference, Neurodiversity Children's Magazine, the Minutes with Michelle Podcast, and the Neurodiversity Children's Professional Certification Program. She is also the author of 23 Questions: 23 Answers to the Top Questions Adults Ask About Children.
As a recognized leader in workforce development, Michelle has created professional certification programs, community learning labs, mentorship initiatives, university apprenticeship opportunities, and professional development experiences designed to prepare current and future professionals to effectively support children with neurodiverse and special needs. Through these initiatives, she has trained, mentored, and supervised students, therapists, educators, healthcare professionals, and community members while fostering meaningful partnerships across healthcare, education, and nonprofit sectors.
Her mission is to build a sustainable workforce and supportive community equipped to empower and serve children with neurodiverse needs.