On a recent episode of the RITP Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Courtney Boitano, a practicing OT since 2007 and the current capstone coordinator at San Jose State University’s Occupational Therapy Department. Courtney’s career spans school-based practice, pediatrics, and private therapy through her practice OT Outside. In addition to her clinical work, she plays a pivotal role in preparing OT students to step into the profession with confidence.
This conversation was especially meaningful for me, as I’m an alumna of San Jose State. Returning to campus to guest lecture and introduce Reflex Integration Through Play (RITP) to the next generation of therapists felt like a full-circle moment
Why Reflex Integration Matters in OT Education
Both Courtney and I reflected on the reality that most OT programs still give reflexes minimal attention—maybe a brief lecture in a lifespan or pediatric class. Yet reflexes deeply influence:
- Posture and balance
- Regulation and attention
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Participation in school and home activities
When students see these connections firsthand, their clinical reasoning grows. They begin to recognize patterns, name them, and apply meaningful interventions—rather than simply labeling a child as “clumsy” or “uncoordinated.”
Courtney described it beautifully: reflex integration through play makes theory tangible. It gives students that “aha!” moment where observation leads directly into purposeful treatment planning.
Supporting OT Students Beyond Graduation
One theme that came up repeatedly in our conversation was how unprepared most of us felt after graduation. The truth is: you walk out with a degree, but building clinical confidence takes much more. Bringing RITP into the classroom helped bridge that gap. Students were able to observe reflexes in real time, screen for them, and use play-based activities to address them.
It’s not something passive. Kids are active participants, and that’s what creates those lightbulb moments for students.
That’s why we’re piloting an RITP Bridge Program with SJSU students designed to mentor OTs as they transition from student to practitioner. This program provides:
- Continued mentorship after graduation
- Hands-on resources like books, games, and the RITP app
- A safe community for problem-solving and refining skills
- Guidance in making treatment plans functional, measurable, and play-based
Courtney emphasized that this type of mentorship builds not only competence, but also confidence—the missing piece for so many new grads. Courtney compared it to a mini-fellowship
It gives them that extra layer of mentorship and confidence, rather than feeling like they’re just thrown into managing a caseload on their own. – Dr Courtney Boitano
Looking Ahead
Our vision is simple: if OT students interested in pediatrics learn reflex integration and treatment planning early, they’ll enter the field with sharper clinical eyes, stronger treatment frameworks, and a deeper sense of confidence. Over time, we believe reflex integration will become a standard part of OT training, not an “extra.”
An Invitation for OT Students
If you’re an OT student eager to bridge the gap between theory and practice, I invite you to learn more about the RITP Bridge Program. It’s designed to give you mentorship, community, and practical tools that will carry you from the classroom into confident, impactful practice.
👉 Learn more about the RITP Program here and BOOK A CALL to see if it is a good fit for you.
