Meet Our Team of Pediatric Therapists | Naturally FUNctional Wellness

Hey There,
Let's Meet The Team!

I'm so glad you found your way here!

Meet the Founder:
Ashley Sarno OTR/L, ASDCS

My journey started in New Jersey, but the call for new experiences brought me to the beautiful landscapes of Arizona. I pursued both my undergraduate and graduate studies at Seton Hall University, where my passion for helping others took root.

My personal experiences with health challenges led me to discover the incredible power of holistic approaches and natural medicine. I truly believe in the healing power of nature and the environment, and I incorporate these elements into my therapy practices to create positive, lasting results.

At the core of my practice is a strong commitment to interdisciplinary communication, research-based techniques, collaboration with families, and creating individualized treatment plans tailored to each child's unique needs. I believe that working closely together ensures the best outcomes for every child.

I am Highly Accredited!

Special Interests

Children Ages 3-18

Autism
ADHD
Emotional Regulation
Executive Functioning Skills
Nervous
System Support

Credentials

#403708

National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)

OTH-008852

Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (ABOTE)

#776589

Austism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS)

Education

Bachelors in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Seton Hall University

Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy

Seton Hall University

Meet Amber OTR/L

Hi, I’m Amber! I’m a licensed Occupational Therapist based in Arizona with over five years of experience helping individuals of all ages live fuller, more meaningful lives. My diverse background in acute care, pediatric outpatient therapy, and school-based services has given me a well-rounded understanding of growth and development across the lifespan.

Originally from Texas, I moved to Phoenix in 2019 and quickly fell in love with the desert sunshine and mountain views. When I’m not supporting families through my OT work, you’ll find me hiking local trails, working out, reading, or planning my next travel adventure.

While I continue to enjoy my work in school-based settings, I’ve developed a special passion for home-based therapy, meeting children and families where they are and helping them build confidence and independence in the comfort of their own homes. I’m dedicated to empowering families with practical, playful strategies that make everyday life easier, happier, and more connected.

Meet Kayla Christensen OTR/L

I’m an occupational therapist with several years of experience supporting children and students. I love building meaningful connections with students and helping them feel more confident, capable, and successful throughout their school day. My background as a yoga teacher and somatic trauma informed therapist also shapes the way I support regulation, connection, and the whole child.

I enjoy working with kids because each student brings their own strengths, personality, and way of learning. Outside of work, I’m a mama to one baby boy and love making jewelry, cooking, traveling and spending time with loved ones.

We are so excited to have Kayla as part of our team, supporting us in the school-based environment!

Meet Shaelyn Moracco MS, CCC-SLP, ASDCS

Hi, I’m Shaelyn! I’m a speech language pathologist (SLP) who believes children learn best through play. I strive to make my sessions interactive and engaging all while improving a child’s ability to effectively communicate.

Born and raised in Hawaii, I moved to Washington to attend Washington State University for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I then moved to sunny Arizona to start my career in supporting students with their speech and language skills. When I’m not treating children, I enjoy reading, crafting, exploring new restaurants, and traveling. I specialize in Autism with a certification as an Autism Disorder Clinical Specialist.

I believe in a team-based approach and collaborating with families, other professionals, and the child. I value meeting children at their level and building a strong foundation to grow their speech and language skills. Here at Naturally Functional Wellness, we believe all forms of communication should be honored. I can’t wait to see your children learn and grow!

Meet Amanda Vaughan, OTD

Hi, I’m Amanda Vaughan, OTD! I’m a Doctor of Occupational Therapy and a graduate of Northern Arizona University. I’m so excited to be supporting Naturally Functional Wellness by sharing the importance of neuro-affirming care, pediatric OT, and the power of play through our media platforms! My goal is to help families and caregivers see just how much learning, growth, connection, and development can happen through play and to celebrate every child exactly as they are!

Meet Kate, Our Administrator

Hi, I am Kate. I bring a unique blend of warmth, expertise, and wholehearted passion to this team. As an esthetician, I’ve spent years helping others feel confident and cared for in their own skin. My approach to wellness runs deep. I believe in nurturing both the inside and the outside, and I live that daily through my active lifestyle, grounding workouts, and personal wellness rituals.

In my role, I’ll be the steady heartbeat behind our operations, keeping everything running smoothly, building authentic connections with our families, and helping cultivate an environment where every child and caregiver feels supported, welcomed, and truly seen.