Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Sarno. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ashley, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.
Naturally Functional Wellness was born from my deep love for health and wellness, but even more so from my own personal journey of healing. From a young age, I was diagnosed with PCOS and Ulcerative Colitis, and finding quality care felt like an uphill battle. Most doctors wanted to prescribe medications or injections, but something inside me told me there had to be another way.
Determined to take charge of my health, I dove into research and eventually found a naturopath (shoutout to Keystone Naturally Family Medicine!). Together, we created a supplement and nutrition plan that truly supported my body’s healing. This experience was life-changing—it not only transformed my own health but also reshaped my professional path. Around this time, I transitioned from working in older adult occupational therapy to pediatric OT, where my passion for the brain, psychology, and neurodivergence deepened.
Through my own healing journey, I realized I wanted to give others the same gift—hope, knowledge, and the power to heal through food and supplements. I want families to know that a more functional, thriving life is possible when we nourish our bodies with what they truly need. Healing is within reach, and I’m here to help guide the way.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Naturally FUNctional Wellness is a holistic pediatric occupational therapy practice dedicated to empowering children to reach their fullest potential by harnessing the power of nature, movement, and play-based therapy. Founded on the belief that true healing and growth happen organically when children are engaged in meaningful, joyful experiences, we provide mobile therapy services that integrate the natural environment, sensory-rich activities, and family-centered care.
How Naturally FUNctional Wellness Began
My journey into pediatric occupational therapy was deeply personal. After facing my own health struggles and discovering the power of holistic healing, I became passionate about applying those principles to help children thrive. My background in both traditional and holistic approaches allows me to offer a unique, well-rounded therapy model that goes beyond symptom management to foster lifelong wellness.
Through years of working with children in various settings, I saw the need for an approach that moves away from clinical environments and rigid protocols, instead embracing the natural ways children learn and develop. This led me to create Naturally FUNctional Wellness—a mobile therapy practice that meets children where they are, whether that’s at home, in the park, or in their community, ensuring therapy is functional, engaging, and seamlessly integrated into daily life.
Services We Provide
Naturally FUNctional Wellness offers mobile pediatric occupational therapy with a holistic, play-based approach. Our services include:
Sensory Integration Therapy – Helping children regulate their sensory systems for improved focus, behavior, and overall well-being.
Gross & Fine Motor Skill Development – Strengthening coordination, balance, and dexterity to support activities like handwriting, dressing, and sports.
Self-Regulation & Emotional Wellness – Teaching mindfulness, coping strategies, and self-awareness for emotional and behavioral growth.
Nature-Based & Outdoor Therapy – Utilizing the outdoors to enhance movement, creativity, and sensory exploration.
Parent & Caregiver Education – Providing families with tools and strategies to support their child’s development at home.
Holistic Wellness Strategies – Incorporating nutrition, movement, and mindfulness to support overall well-being.
What Sets Us Apart
What makes Naturally FUNctional Wellness unique is our nature-based, holistic approach. We see children as whole beings and focus on root causes rather than just treating symptoms. Instead of working within traditional clinic walls, we take therapy into real-life environments where children feel comfortable and engaged.
Our core values are:
🌱 Holistic Healing – Addressing mind, body, and environment for long-term success.
🎉 Play-Based Learning – Making therapy fun, natural, and engaging.
👨👩👧 Family-Centered Care – Empowering parents with tools to support their child’s progress.
🌍 Connection with Nature – Using outdoor settings to enhance movement and sensory experiences.
What We’re Most Proud Of
I’m incredibly proud of the transformations we see in children and families. Whether it’s a child who can finally enjoy playdates without sensory overload, a parent who gains confidence in supporting their child’s needs, or a little one achieving independence in self-care tasks, every milestone is a victory.
At Naturally FUNctional Wellness, we don’t just work with children—we build confidence, nurture resilience, and create joyful learning experiences that last a lifetime.
What Potential Clients Should Know
If you’re looking for a therapy approach that prioritizes natural, joyful, and meaningful progress, Naturally FUNctional Wellness is here to help. We believe that healing and growth don’t have to feel like work—they can be fun, engaging, and truly life-changing.
We’re more than just therapy; we’re a community of support, empowerment, and holistic wellness for children and families. 🌿✨
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
One of the most effective strategies for growing Naturally FUNctional Wellness has been building a strong referral network of like-minded practitioners who not only believe in our mission but also genuinely want to see us thrive. The foundation of this network is built on authentic relationships, shared values, and a deep commitment to holistic, child-centered care.
Building a Referral Network Rooted in Shared Values
Naturally FUNctional Wellness isn’t just another pediatric occupational therapy practice—it’s a movement that embraces nature, play, and whole-body healing. To attract and build a strong referral network, it has been essential to connect with other professionals who share this vision. This includes:
Holistic Pediatricians – Physicians who understand and support integrative approaches to child wellness, from nutrition to movement-based interventions.
Speech and Physical Therapists – Collaborating with therapists who complement occupational therapy and believe in a multidisciplinary, whole-child approach.
Mental Health Professionals – Partnering with child psychologists, social workers, and counselors who recognize the link between emotional regulation, sensory processing, and holistic well-being.
Midwives, Doulas & Lactation Consultants – Professionals who work with infants and families early on, providing a natural bridge to pediatric OT services.
Chiropractors & Functional Medicine Providers – Practitioners who focus on nervous system regulation and natural approaches to wellness.
Educators & Alternative Schooling Communities – Montessori and homeschool groups that align with our child-led, hands-on approach to learning.
How These Referrals Are Built & Sustained
Providing Value First – Instead of just asking for referrals, I focus on building genuine relationships by offering support, sharing knowledge, and referring clients to others in my network. This reciprocal relationship fosters trust and long-term partnerships.
Aligning with Core Values – Naturally FUNctional Wellness attracts practitioners who believe in whole-body healing, sensory-based learning, movement, and connection with nature. When professionals see that our approach aligns with their own philosophy, they are naturally inclined to refer families to us.
Being a Resource & Educator – Hosting workshops, webinars, and collaborative events helps spread awareness about the benefits of holistic OT and provides professionals with a deeper understanding of how we can work together to support children.
Consistent Communication & Relationship Building – Regular check-ins, networking meetups, and co-treating opportunities strengthen professional bonds and ensure continued referrals.
Word-of-Mouth & Success Stories – When practitioners witness the positive transformations in children they refer, they become even stronger advocates for Naturally FUNctional Wellness.
The Power of Community
At the heart of it all, people need people—a core belief that has shaped both my personal and professional journey. Growing Naturally FUNctional Wellness has been about more than just getting clients; it’s been about creating a network of support, empowerment, and shared purpose.
When practitioners truly believe in what you do and see the impact firsthand, they become lifelong partners in your mission. This has been the key to sustainable, meaningful growth—a community of professionals who uplift one another, ensuring that families receive the best care possible.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
Without a doubt, in every lifetime, I would choose this profession again. Being a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of Naturally FUNctional Wellness is not just my career—it’s my purpose, my passion, and one of the most incredible parts of my life.
Every day, I have the privilege of witnessing children grow, heal, and thrive in ways that extend far beyond therapy sessions. I get to help families find hope, give children the tools to navigate their world with confidence, and make a real, lasting impact—one that is felt in the small victories, the big breakthroughs, and the joyful moments in between.
There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a child who once struggled light up with confidence when they accomplish something they never thought possible. Or a parent, once overwhelmed, feel empowered and supported in their journey. These are the moments that remind me why I do what I do.
Choosing this path wasn’t just a decision; it was a calling. And if I had to do it all over again—a thousand times over—I would choose this profession every single time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.naturallyfunctionalwellness.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturallyfunctionalwellness/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Naturally-Functional-Wellness/61565419707533/?_rdr
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/naturally-functional-wellness-queen-creek
Image Credits
Sundara Yoga with Christa Negrete