Meet
Akemi McNeil, MA, OTR/L
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Developmental Specialist
Akemi McNeil, MA, OTR/L, is a licensed pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Nurture By Design, bringing over 20 years of experience supporting children and families across clinic, school, home, and community settings. She specializes in Sensory Integration and DIR®/Floortime approaches, blending clinical expertise with genuine empathy and warmth. Akemi holds degrees from Dominican University and the University of Southern California and is SIPT certified with advanced DIR®/Floortime training. Her practice reflects a deep commitment to family-centered care, offering support that empowers parents and fosters connection throughout their child’s developmental journey.
As a therapist, educator, and advocate, Akemi understands the joys and challenges of raising a child with unique needs. Families consistently value her thoughtful, collaborative, and down-to-earth approach. She takes the time to listen and tailor strategies that truly work in everyday life—whether a child needs support beyond school or insurance-based services or simply a fresh, informed perspective. With Akemi, families gain a compassionate partner who meets them where they are and helps build the path forward.
Akemi’s career includes leadership roles with the Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC), including Treasurer and Conference Chair, as well as serving as the website designer and coordinator for the California OT Fieldwork Council. She regularly shares her expertise through presentations at clinics, universities, and professional conferences. Her work through Nurture By Design is a reflection of her passion: helping children grow, thrive, and achieve their potential while guiding families with knowledge, care, and heart.
The Nurture by Design Approach
At Nurture by Design, we believe the most meaningful progress happens through relationships, daily routines, and real-life experiences. Every child deserves a nurturing environment that supports their sensory, emotional, and developmental needs—and every caregiver deserves guidance in creating that environment.
Our core approach is relationship-centered, play-based, sensory-informed, and designed for real life. We take a whole-child, whole-family perspective grounded in evidence-based practice, compassion, and collaboration.
Our goal is to help families feel confident in their everyday rhythms while providing practical strategies, meaningful support, and trusted resources that nurture growth where it matters most—at home, in the community, and in everyday life.
