Get to know one of Keystone Pediatric Developmental Center’s newest Occupational Therapists, Giannalise Pepoli!
How did you decide to become an Occupational Therapist?
From a young age, I’ve always felt a strong calling to help others, whether that meant making someone laugh, offering support during difficult times, or simply being present. I’ve always been drawn to creating joy and meaning in the lives of those around me. As I grew older, I discovered a passion for creativity and hands-on work, especially through art and other expressive outlets. However, I hadn’t yet discovered how to turn that combination of compassion and creativity into a career until a personality survey unexpectedly pointed me towards occupational therapy. Curious, I dove into researching the field and was immediately captivated. I was amazed by the versatility of OT, the variety of settings, the diverse populations served, and most importantly, the deeply human-centered approach. It was a profession rooted in empathy, adaptability, and empowerment. The more I learned, the more I felt connected to its core values.
I took the initiative to shadow local occupational therapists, and that experience solidified everything for me. I witnessed firsthand the transformative impact OT can have on someone’s life, helping individuals regain independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose after injury, illness, or through the challenges of living with a disability. Occupational therapy beautifully merges my desire to help others with my love for creativity and problem-solving. It allows me to walk alongside people in their journeys, helping them engage in the activities that give their lives meaning. Choosing OT felt less like a decision and more like discovering the path I was always meant to take. It perfectly aligns with my personal mission: to live with purpose and help others do the same.
Where did you go to college?
I completed my undergraduate studies at Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in Psychology and Social Work. During that time, I also pursued minors in American Sign Language (ASL) and Women’s Studies, which helped broaden my understanding of communication, identity, and advocacy—perspectives that continue to influence my practice as an occupational therapist. I went on to earn my Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, PA. My time at Messiah provided me with a strong clinical foundation, hands-on experience in diverse settings, and a deep appreciation for the holistic and client-centered approach that is central to the OT profession. Both academic experiences helped shape not only my professional skills but also my commitment to compassionate, inclusive care.
What is your favorite part of your job/working in the pediatric OT field?
Working in the pediatric occupational therapy field is incredibly fulfilling, despite its unique challenges. Children have such a remarkable way of seeing the world, with imagination, resilience, and creativity that they often end up teaching me just as much as I teach them. They remind me of the importance of play, curiosity, and not taking life too seriously. There’s something truly special about helping a child discover their strengths and gain confidence in their abilities. My passion for working with children is also deeply personal. I have close family members with disabilities, and I’ve been fortunate to play a meaningful role in supporting their journey toward greater independence. That experience gave me firsthand insight into how much of a “village” it truly takes to help a child thrive—and how powerful it is to be part of that support system. Over the past few years, I’ve seen a significant rise in the need for pediatric occupational therapy, and I feel honored to be able to step into that space. Every milestone a child reaches, no matter how small, is a celebration. Being even a small part of a child’s progress and watching them overcome obstacles to achieve their goals is truly priceless to me. It’s a privilege to contribute to their success stories and to help lay the foundation for a more independent, confident future.
Why did you choose to work at Keystone?
I chose to work at Keystone because of its mission, values, and legacy, all deeply rooted in faith and a true sense of purpose. I knew I wanted to be part of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) because it allows me to prioritize quality over quantity in patient care, a rare and meaningful opportunity in today’s healthcare landscape. From the very beginning, Keystone stood out. During my interview process, I had the chance to meet nearly everyone in administration. I was genuinely blown away by how kind, welcoming, and intentional everyone was. Keystone took the time to arrange meetings with leadership, staff members in different departments, tours of the facilities, and even opportunities to shadow, all before making a hiring decision. It wasn’t just an interview; it was a thoughtful, mutual process to ensure the right fit. I had never experienced that level of care and transparency from an employer before, and it spoke volumes about the organization’s culture. The moment I walked through the doors, I could tell this was a special place. Once I met my future coworkers in my discipline, I was welcomed with open arms. It immediately felt like family filled with supportive, collaborative people, grounded in shared values. Joining Keystone wasn’t just accepting a job, it was becoming part of something bigger.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I love spending quality time with my family, friends, and pets. I enjoy being outdoors, whether it’s going for a walk in nature or just soaking up some fresh air. I also love shopping, getting creative with crafts, and exploring local events; I’m always on the lookout for ways to stay involved in my community. A recent accomplishment I’m proud of is learning how to make sourdough from scratch! It’s been a fun and rewarding new hobby that’s taught me a lot about patience (and delicious bread).
Where is your hometown, and if you are new to the area, what do you like about Franklin County so far?
I was born and raised in Mechanicsburg, PA, and recently moved to the Carlisle area to be closer to work. I haven’t had the chance to explore all that Franklin County has to offer just yet, but one place I’ve discovered and already love is The Butcher Shoppe. It’s quickly become one of my favorite local spots! I’m looking forward to getting to know the area more and am always on the lookout for new adventures and hidden gems.
What’s an interesting fact about yourself or something people might be surprised to know about you?
An interesting fact about me is that I helped raise five service dogs through Susquehanna Service Dogs, an incredible organization based in Grantville, PA. I’m currently still involved as a volunteer and hope to return to being a puppy raiser once I’m settled into my new role and community. It’s an experience that has taught me so much about patience, dedication, and the power of service animals.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’m truly honored to be part of Keystone. This organization’s mission and values deeply align with my own, and I look forward to contributing to its legacy of compassionate, community-focused care. I’m excited for what lies ahead and grateful to be part of such a welcoming team.
Welcome to Keystone, Giannalise! Click here to learn more about Keystone Pediatric Developmental Center.
