Melissa Werz, OTD, OTR/L

I came to Duke in 2013 in order to work at a large teaching center and I am fortunate to have found a profession that allows me to apply my skills and creativity to help adults in need after having a change in their lives. I specialize in working with adults with neurological conditions and performing driving evaluations. I work with patients with various diagnoses that range from simple presentations to very complex which allows me to use all of the skills that I have developed during my career at Duke. I chose occupational therapy because it allows me to use my knowledge, creativity and a holistic approach to figure out which activities are most important for my patients to return to doing. It allows me to assist them in regaining skills and in providing the support necessary for safety and function. I am motivated by my patients’ drive and happiness and look forward to working on your team. When I"m not at work I enjoy spending time with my sons and family and being outdoors.

Treatment of patients with Parkinson disease using principals of PWR!Moves emphasizing use of intentional, quality movement and focus on intensity and increased amplitude to facilitate better movement strategies and improve functional independence and quality of life.