Beacon Pediatric Therapy became a vision of Sara Wilbert in March of 2022 after learning that many families in Ocean County were having difficulty finding and accessing much needed therapy services. The mission of Beacon Pediatric Therapy evolved into providing a child directed and family centered approach to meeting the needs of the whole child. From the start of development as an infant to building confidence of the growing child, Beacon Pediatric Therapy focuses a child’s strengths and unique talents while supporting their challenges to improve independence and fulfillment during daily routines, mealtimes, socialization and play.
Meet our Team
Sara Wilbert Owner and Occupational Therapist
Thank you for taking the time learn about Beacon Pediatric Therapy Services in Forked River, NJ . I am Sara Wilbert, founder/occupational therapist and this is my family. I have been an occupational therapist for over 22 years. My goal is to help your child be the best version of themself through meaningful play and interventions that promote independence and fulfillment.
About Sara Wilbert
I live in Forked River, New Jersey with my husband, two teenagers and 3 pups.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2001 at the University of Hartford and completed my fieldwork education in areas of mental health, physical disabilities and pediatrics. My work experience includes public and private school based practice, early intervention, and adult rehabilitation.
Training and Continuing Education:
- Torticollis and Plagiocephaly
- Reflex Integration and Sensory Integration
- Certified in Tummy Time Method
- Visual perceptual & Functional Visual Skills
- Certified Yoga Teacher (CYT) with Asanas for Autism
- SOS Feeding approach
- ASD Clinical Specialist
Rebecca Walsh
Rebecca is originally from Bucks County, PA. She married her husband in 2009. They moved to the Silverton area of Toms River, where they live with their three cats. Rebecca has been working with children for most of her life—nannying, summer camp, preschool teacher, you name it! While working as a paraprofessional in the Toms River school district she became inspired while working beside an occupational therapist. She decided to return to college and earned her Associates degree to become an OTA at Rutgers in 2022.
“While going back to school as an adult was one of the most difficult things I have ever done, and it may have taken me longer than most to find my passion, I am so very grateful for the journey. I truly believe I have the best job in the world!”
Julianne Slezak
As the Client Services Manager, Julianne supports the growth of our office by guiding families through our intake, insurance and scheduling process. In addition she communicates with insurance and physicians to ensure our families get the care they need in a timely manner.
Beacon Pediatric Therapy strives to provide the best pediatric therapy services in the area! With incredible growth of our practice, we can only provide exceptional therapy services with an experienced and organized manager.
Julianne is a mother of 3 beautiful girls and was a stay at home mom for 10 years before her role at Beacon. She has extensive experience working in medical practices and is a valuable part of the team.
Emily Barbieri
Emily grew up on Long Beach Island and earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Stockton University in 2013. She then went on to earn her OTA Degree in 2017. In 2021, she married her best friend, Nicholas and they had a beautiful baby girl in 2022.
Emily has always enjoyed working with children as she was nanny for several summers in High School. She completed a clinical rotation in an Elementary school setting and fell in love with it.
Her most recent clinical experience prior to joining Beacon, was working in the area of geriatrics for six years. She is excited to continue growing as a clinician by providing treatment to children at Beacon.
Claire Pansini
Claire Pansini received her Masters of Science in Communication Disorders from Stockton University. She earned her Bachelor Degree in Psychology and Linguistics with a Certification in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Rutgers University in 2021. During grad school, she completed clinical fieldwork in various settings, including adult rehabilitation and the Ocean County public schools. “Helping children maximize their interactions through play-based, individualized therapy has been so rewarding. I have loved the energy and excitement that comes with working with the pediatric population.” When I am not working, Claire can be found exploring local trails with her cavalier Lucy, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.
Shannon Harrer
Shannon graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in 2000 where she found her passion working with children. She has a wealth of knowledge in the field of pediatrics working with children in school-based services for over 23 years.
Shannon currently lives in Barnegat with her husband, three teenage children and their cat and dog. When not working Shannon enjoys spending time with family, walking local trails, reading, and training her dog new tricks like jumping through a hoop, jumping into her arms and taking a bow.
Victoria Sheeran
Victoria has clinical experience across the lifespan however her passion is in the pediatric setting. She has worked with children of many ages and diagnoses including feeding disorders and communication impairments.
She is a recent graduate with a Master’s of Science in Communication Disorders from Stockton University.
“Hi there! My name is Victoria. Working with kids holds such a special place in my heart and I have always valued my role in this field. I am looking forward to working with the families at Beacon, and also learning from each and every client that I work with! Because we not only make an impact in the lives of the children we work with, they also impact our own lives as well. When I am not working, you can catch me practicing yoga!”