san diego occupational therapist

ERIN CLARELLI, M.S., OTR/L

Apraxia Informed

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Sensory Trained

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Relationship Centered

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Apraxia Informed ✵ Sensory Trained ✵ Relationship Centered ✵

A woman with long brown hair smiling in front of greenery.

Hi, I’m Erin Clarelli

MEET our ceo

Erin Clarelli, M.S., OTR/L

CEO & FOUNDER OF SUNRISE THERAPIES

Hi! It’s so nice to have you here. To start, I want to share my immense passion for treating all individuals with respect, dignity, and kindness. What that means for my work is learning from those who experience the need for the support I provide through listening, reflecting on my thoughts and beliefs, and integrating feedback every single day.

I’ve been an occupational therapist for over a decade and have spent time with neurodivergent individuals since I was 18, teaching inclusive gymnastics at a family-owned sports facility. I learned a lot about leadership, listening to parents, and the importance of a “CEO” being highly involved in what’s happening in a company. I will never lose sight of that.

I've spent a lot of time learning about sensory processing and our neurological makeup as humans—and I'm always digging in to learn more! How our heart, brain, and body are all interconnected and when this connection is challenged, how we can work on reconnecting and integrating the three.

  • In my sessions and time with families, I focus on the art of BEING—being fully who I am, and making space for you to be fully who you are—while supporting your growth into the most fully realized version of yourself. I believe in community, accountability, personal excellence, and growth and well-being for the individuals and families I support.

    ERIN

My Qualifications

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

  • M.S., Occupational Therapy, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 2015

certifications

  • Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) Trained & Certified – Unyte

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

  • Non-speaking or unreliable speaking autistic teens and adults, spelling, sensory processing, mind-body connection (aka motor planning or praxis), mindfulness & yoga, polyvagal theory, intentional motor workouts, & fitness.

Ways to work with Erin

  • 1:1 OT Sessions

    Wondering if OT can work outside the clinic? Good news—it absolutely can.
    Erin offers calm, personalized support through 1:1 sessions that meet your loved one where they are. Her approach to therapy is grounded in safety, connection, and the belief that meaningful progress starts with feeling seen and supported.

    learn more

  • Speaking Engagements

    Looking for a speaker who makes the complex motor and sensory experiences of nonspeaking autistic individuals refreshingly clear? Erin’s your girl. Book her to bring clarity, actionable strategies, and heartfelt insight to your next event.

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  • OT Mentorship

    Ever wish you had an OT mentor who totally gets apraxic autism and can help you navigate tricky cases without overwhelm? Erin shows up with authentic support, practical clinical tips, and a whole lot of clarity—so you don’t have to do this alone.

    learn more
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supporting families in the san diego area

MY Service AREAS

Poway
Carmel Valley
PQ
4S Ranch
Del Mar Encinitas Solana Beach Rancho Santa Fe Rancho Bernardo Scripps Ranch Sabre Springs

My Favorite Things

Hand holding a waffle cone with ice cream scoops in front of a canal and bridge.

Traveling & finding the best ice cream spots

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Gardening & the outdoors

Side profile of a light brown horse wearing a bridle, standing outdoors with a blurred natural background.

Anything to do with Animals

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Hobbies & Personal Interests

I love staying active, whether it’s weightlifting, hiking, or just spending time outdoors. Gardening and meditation help me slow down and stay present while traveling lets me explore new places and experiences. I’m happiest when I’m with my fur babes, friends, and family, making memories. And when it’s time to unwind, you’ll probably find me curled up with a good book—and most likely a furry snuggle buddy and some kind of dessert in hand.