About Us

Why RISE?

Occupational therapists by trade, Beck and Morgan recognized the lack of self-directed and individualized programming for young adults with disabilities in the DC area. As former school based therapists working with transition-aged students ages 18-22, Morgan and Beck strive to provide every young adult in the DMV area with opportunities and skill-based programming to RISE to their full potential.

RISE also recognizes the need in the DMV area for supportive, innovative, and creative occupational therapy services for clients across the lifespan. Beck and Morgan’s core belief is that clients make the most progress when the entire support team works together. We focus on practicing skills in the community as well as integrating individualized visuals, modifications, and accommodations in order to support clients in meaningful daily activities.

Our mission is to Redefine Independence for all clients we serve. We strive to create supportive, strengths-based, and meaningful activities for our programs and aim to ensure that every stakeholder in a client’s life journey is involved and valued. 

We are passionate about fostering independence and self-manifested success for each client we work with - identifying and creating materials, adaptations, modifications, and strategies that ensure lifelong growth and success.

  • Morgan Smith M.S., OTR/L

    FOUNDER, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

    Morgan has worked in the disability services field for the past five years as either an occupational therapist or direct support professional for kids and young adults in school and home settings. Morgan loves identifying and creating accommodations that will increase clients’ independence in school, home, and community-based activities.

  • Beck Giallella M.S., OTR/L

    FOUNDER, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

    Beck has worked as an occupational therapist in school districts and clinics around the country for the past seven years. Beck is passionate about providing clients with interventions that will increase their independence and leave an impact on their school experience and their community.

  • Sophie Leeds M.S., OTR/L

    OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

    Sophie has been an occupational therapist for over 8 years primarily in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. She is excited to take her skills into client's homes and communities to help people meet their lifelong goals. She also has a strong desire to help caregivers of her clients feel supported and heard as they navigate their unique role.

Certifications, Training & Experience

  • National Board Certified in Occupational Therapy and licensed to practice occupational therapy in the District of Columbia and Maryland.

  • Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Certified.

  • Assessment of Motor and Processing Skills (AMPS) Certified - An observational assessment that measures the performance quality of tasks related to activities of daily living (ADL) in a natural environment aimed to determine areas of strengths and needs in occupational therapy services.

  • Pediatric Special Needs Aquatic Therapy Training completed (12 hour course)

  • Over 8 years of combined experience in supporting Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device users.