About Blue Skies Pediatric Therapy
Our Story
In 2002, after working in the public school system for several years, an occupational therapist named Aimee Roberts decided she wanted to do more for children and families than she could within that system.
She wanted to help families whose children didn’t qualify for help through the schools – meaning their behaviors and academic performance weren’t “bad enough” – but who still needed and wanted it.
Families of children who struggled with friendships, who behaved well at school but terribly at home, who hardly felt like they could go out in public with their child without “something” happening.
Families who felt hopeless with nowhere to turn.
So, she opened Blue Skies Pediatric Therapy Clinic in Federal Way, Washington, where she operated until 2005 when she, her family, and the clinic moved to Billings.
Since then, Aimee has grown Blue Skies to include multiple occupational therapists, currently serving hundreds of families – and countless families over the years.
“I’ve always wanted to give parents hope that their kid could live as functional, happy kids, and ultimately, adults, and that’s what we work to achieve at Blue Skies.” – Aimee Roberts, Founder
Our Team
Aimee Roberts, OTR/L
Founder & Owner
Hi there!
I’m Aimee, the founder and director of Blue Skies. I started Blue Skies back in 2005 with a vision of a holistic pediatric clinic that would give families hope for the future of their children with special needs. I had been working as an OT in the Seattle area both in the schools and private practice, but tired of the busy “city life.” Having specialized in sensory processing, I knew that my expertise could fill a need in my hometown of Billings. Since opening Blue Skies, I have had the privilege of working with countless families and am humbled by the trust and faith of the families I work with. It has motivated me to continue to learn and grow both as a person and a therapist so that I can provide the best services possible. My desire to provide the best possible care to families has led me to get certifications in Therapeutic Listening, M.O.R.E. (oralmotor prog), SOS Feeding, Bal-A-Vis-X, the Alert Program, Social Thinking, and be one of the first Montanans to complete an intensive mentorship at the Star Center.
My passion for children and families has extended to a passion for “spreading the word” to community organizations. Throughout the years I have given presentations at the MOTA annual conference as well as several special needs organizations, schools, and advocacy groups. I also serve on the Health Services Advisory Committee for Head Start and am currently an Assistant Professor at Rocky Mountain College for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program.
When I’m not jumping on the trampoline or hanging out in the ball pit at work, you can find me spending quality time with my husband, 2 kids, and plethora of animals (dogs, cats, bunnies, chickens). I’m an avid DIYer and love to build, create, and grow so don’t be surprised if you see me on the weekend covered in sawdust or dirt!
Kendra Munsterman, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Hi, I’m Kendra
I’m from the great state of South Dakota where I completed my bachelors degree at SDSU, GO JACKS! I completed my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Rocky Mountain College here in Billings.
I have always been a high energy person who loves to be active which makes me the perfect fit to work with kids who like to run and play. I found my passion for occupational therapy after working at a summer camp for children and adults with different abilities. I love that OT helps kids learn how to tackle the biggest of problems using play.
While we have lots to teach children, I believe we can learn just as much from them. It is an honor and a challenge to work alongside so many unique and gifted children.
When not at the clinic I love to spend time outdoors, staying active riding my bike or running, and spending time with my husband and daughter.
Angela Valdez
Dyslexia Tutor & Administrative Assistant
Hi There! I’m Angela. I graduated from MSU-Billings with a degree in Sociology and Early Childhood Studies. I have an extensive background working with special needs children including teaching preschool and being a family support specialist for 13 years. My work with children and their families led me to Blue Skies and in 2010 I began working at Blue Skies as an OT aide. As the years progressed I have taken on many different roles and responsibilities. I am now the Administrative Assistant and have the difficult task of keeping things running smoothly.
Like all of us at Blue Skies, I am working to diversify my skills. I love teaching and have a special interest in learning disorders. I recently completed my certification at the Dyslexia Training Institute in the Orton Gillingham Method. I’m excited to provide individualized tutoring at Blue Skies for kids with dyslexia and other reading disorders using a multi-sensory approach for students that require more than just flashcards to learn.
When I’m not at Blue Skies wearing one of my many hats, you can find me camping in the mountains with my husband, daughter, and four dogs or crafting up a storm in my craft room! I look forward to working with your family as you start the journey of enhancing your child’s development!
Kelcy Ellis, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Hello! I’m Kelcy and I grew up in Laurel, MT. I first became interested in working with kids while volunteering as a ski instructor for an adaptive ski program. That experience led me right to occupational therapy. I was so excited about OT that I moved to North Dakota for 5 years to focus on my education. I attended the University of Mary in Bismarck and earned my Master’s Degree in occupational therapy. After a few years away from Montana, I knew that I wanted to come home. I started my career in Columbus MT, working with both children and adults. I soon realized that my true passion was working with children and their families. I have a special interest in working with toddlers and grade school children. I joined the Blue Skies team in August of 2020. Today, I am focused on providing child-centered therapy and helping kids grow their skills, exceed their goals, while having fun in the process.
In order to better serve families, I have worked hard to expand my own skills and knowledge through courses such as dynamic core for kids, SOS approach to feeding therapy, pediatric complex feeding issues, and bal-a-vis-x. I plan to continue to improve my knowledge and experience in areas such as feeding, sensory processing, physical disabilities, and anxiety.
When I am not at the clinic, you can find me hanging out with my husband and my adorable pets (2 dogs and a cat). I love to be outdoors and enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, hiking, and traveling to Canada with my family.
Lindsey Merrill, COTA/L
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Hi there, I’m Lindsey!
I was born and raised in Montana, which has greatly influenced my love of the outdoors. Growing up, I spent most of my time camping with family, building elaborate forts, or making dance routines on my trampoline with my younger sister.
At a young age, I felt a calling to serve, whether at the homeless shelter or as a camp counselor at Optimist Children’s Camp in the Beartooth Mountains. It was during these experiences that I saw the power of human interaction. Feeling the need to follow this passion, I discovered the field of occupational therapy and completed my associate’s degree in OT at Spokane Falls in 2015. I am a certified occupational therapy assistant with plans to complete my Master’s in OT. I have extensive experience working with kids with a wide range of abilities. I also love to dive into the newest research in the field of pediatrics. My favorite thing about my job is getting to see the joy on kids’ faces when they realize “I can.”
No day is the same at Blue Skies and I enjoy incorporating my training in Bal-A-Vis-X, Social Thinking, primitive reflexes, and sensory integration into my therapy sessions. In the future, I would like to specialize in treating the littlest of the pediatric population and help families to incorporate play into their everyday environments.
In my free time, I bounce between gardening, cooking, and exploring the outdoors while camping with my husband and son.
Kyla Martin, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Bio coming soon!!!
Ashley Brano
Intake Coordinator
Hi I'm Ashley! I was born and raised in Billings and like to consider myself a true Montana girl through and through. I am a mom to the most amazing twins, Chase (boy) and Ryley (girl)! They were born premature at 25 weeks which resulted in a lengthy hospital stay and a rough start to life. Due to their prematurity, they both have developmental delays/special needs which introduced me into the pediatric therapy world.
Here at Blue Skies, I work alot behind the scenes and do a little bit of everything to keep the office running smoothly. My favorite role is being able to connect with our families and being one of the first people you talk to when seeking out an occupational therapist. I am a mom who “gets it” and understands first hand the struggles and concerns of having a child with special needs. I love being able to connect with caregivers and letting them know that they are not alone.
When I am not at the clinic I enjoy spending as much time outdoors camping and fishing, watching/playing sports, crafting and of course making memories with my kiddos!
