Kristina Sicora, COTA/L
Industrial Rehabilitation
Clinic: Bloomington
Education: BS in Geography and Scandinavian Studies, University of Minnesota; AAS Occupational Therapy Assistant degree, St. Catherine University
Joined Saunders: 2025
Kristina joined the Saunders Therapy team in April 2025 as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. She received a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Scandinavian Studies from the University of Minnesota and later received an occupational therapy assistant degree from St. Catherine University. Prior to her career in occupational therapy, she had experience in utilizing Geographic Information Systems for various energy delivery projects in the US.
Before working at Saunders, Kristina had experience in home care and skilled nursing facility rehabilitation. She is adept at establishing rapport with clients and provides therapeutic listening and positive feedback to best assist and motivate her clients through their rehabilitation process. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with family and friends on cycling and ski trips. She loves bird watching during spring waterfowl and warbler migration.
Q&A with Kristina
Why did you become a COTA?
I was thinking of returning to school in nursing or social work after my boys were in school, and I had never known what OT was. When I researched what OT was all about, I then volunteered at Courage Kenny in their OT department and ended up loving the OT aspect of healthcare.
What can patients expect when they see you in the clinic?
Clients can expect me to have a smile, be welcoming, approachable, have good listening skills and provide person centered therapy.
When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?
You would find me birdwatching, hanging out with my family, gardening, cooking and being active outside.
What are your favorite ways of staying healthy?
I enjoy cycling, running, and skiing. Also eating good food and maintaining a balanced work/home life.
Where is your hometown?
Robbinsdale, and it has been in our family for four generations (since 1949). Growing up I was an Air Force “Brat”, and I lived in Europe and various places in the States.
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I truly don’t think I had any idea of what I wanted to be when I grew up. I did know that I didn’t want to sit behind a desk.
What is your favorite thing about living in Minnesota?
Winter! I love winter, as well as the other seasons, but when it snows, and hopefully a lot, I am ready to get out and enjoy the snow. My other favorite things about Minnesota are the wonderful lakes and the northern boreal forest.