With Guest: Dr. Courtney Boitano, San José State University

Reflex Integration Through Play™ is moving from clinics to classrooms—and now to the university level! In this episode, Kokeb and Dr. Courtney Boitano share how RITP is shaping future occupational therapists with hands-on, play-based training that bridges the gap between theory and practice.

Dr. Boitano - OT, professor, and capstone coordinator at San José State University - talks about integrating reflex-based, play-centered training into OT education. She shares her journey from pediatric practice to academia, how she discovered RITP, and why giving OT students hands-on experience with reflex integration creates the “missing link” between theory and practice. Together, they discuss piloting a bridge program for students, the importance of observation skills, and how reflex integration through play transforms not only classrooms but also therapy outcomes for children and families.

Whether you’re an OT student, educator, or seasoned therapist, this episode highlights how collaboration is reshaping the future of occupational therapy.

Dr. Courtney Boitano has been a practicing OT since 2007. She is currently the capstone coordinator at San Jose State University in San Jose, California. Her primary practice area is pediatrics and school-based practice. She is also the owner of OT Outside and works with children in private schools and in their homes.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Courtney Boitano and her background in pediatrics and academia

03:00 – Why reflex integration wasn’t taught in traditional OT programs

04:00 – How Kokeb’s OT Schoolhouse interview led to this partnership

06:30 – SJSU students using RITP books and games in real sessions

08:00 – Making reflex integration practical and functional for clients

13:30 – Creating a “bridge program” to mentor new OTs after graduation

17:00 – Building student confidence with mentorship and applied learning

18:30 – Shifting OT perspectives on reflex integration as functional, play-based practice

21:00 – Why results matter: transforming skepticism into support

23:00 – Reflexes as the missing link in treatment planning

25:00 – Post-pandemic challenges in pediatrics and the value of group/social therapy

26:30 – Advice for OT students and professors: the power of observation and hands-on learning

🎓 Learn more about Reflex Integration Through Play™ Certification: https://ritp.info/certification

🌐 Connect with Dr. Courtney Boitano - San José State University OT Program https://www.otoutside.com/

📘 RITP Reflex Integration Book & Game: https://ritp.info/resources