Elizabeth Martinsen is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist at our Ashland Clinic and Hurley Clinic.
The team of Pediatric Therapists at NorthLakes Community Clinic is pleased that Elizabeth Martinsen is back with them, providing Pediatric Occupational Therapy in Ashland and Hurley. She has roots in Ashland and knows the Chequamegon Bay area well. She also brings extensive education, a variety of healthcare experiences, and a passion for pediatric care to the community.
Martinsen earned a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin. Along with that and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, she received an Associate Degree after completing Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program in Ashland, Wisconsin. Additionally, the NorthLakes provider is certified by the National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Martinsen boasts a strong professional background and has worked in various settings, including outpatient, school-based and home-based care.
While she has experience with individuals of all ages, her true passion is pediatrics. Martinsen is especially enthusiastic about early intervention for children from birth to three years old. Her expertise includes – but is not limited to – sensory motor activities, sensory processing, sound therapy, motor planning, coordination skills, strengthening, reflex development, cognitive skills, visual motor skills, mindfulness and emotional wellness.
When asked about the feedback she’d offer to families interested in Pediatric Occupational Therapy, Martinsen warmly said, “I’d let them know that this is an amazing, fun experience. Therapists like me will meet your family where you’re at and join in on your journey!” She also compared it to a hike, saying that “there are going to be great views coming from hard climbs” where parents can watch their children develop new skills and hit new milestones.
When discussing her philosophy of care, Elizabeth shared, “I use a child-centered approach… I get to know them and use what they like to build on skills. I really work to do what is best for each child/family, using sensory systems and a whole body, systems approach.”
Martinsen also tries to look at how she might use movement, play, problem solving and sensory activities to help patients develop and grow. She said, “I have lived the ‘neurodivergent life’ and know how hard that can be, so I’m here to also offer strategies and supports.”
In her free time, the Pediatric Occupational Therapist enjoys spending quality time with her family. She loves being outdoors, exploring, hiking, traveling, and relaxing by the lake in a hammock.
She is eager to connect with her new patients and their families. If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment with Elizabeth Martinsen, or if you would like to learn more about Pediatric Occupational Therapy Services at NorthLakes, please call (715) 685-2200 to speak to a representative at the Ashland Clinic or (715) 329-1288 to speak to a representative at the Hurley Clinic.
