Today we’d like to introduce you to Dayana Alvarez.
Hi Dayana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My Journey Into Motherhood — and Why I’m So Passionate About Supporting Yours
I have always loved everything motherhood and babies. Even as a little girl, you could find me playing “mommy,” proudly toting a baby doll everywhere I went. But my journey into actual motherhood was not as simple as childhood play.
As a teenager, I was diagnosed with PCOS and told that becoming a mother might be difficult. (A lot for a 15-year-old to process!) That news shaped how soon I would dive into motherhood and by the age of 22, I was incredibly fortunate to welcome my first baby girl into the world.
But what I didn’t expect was how challenging the postpartum period would be. I experienced postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD. My daughter had tethered oral tissues, which made breastfeeding extremely difficult, and I ultimately chose to exclusively pump to nourish her. I had no idea where to find support—for lactation, my mental health, or even for bonding with my baby. And let me tell you: that connection didn’t come naturally at first.
Fast forward a few years and I began my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy where I completed my Capstone project focused on maternal health and stress, which gave me both the education and tools I had desperately needed during my own postpartum journey.
Between studies, I gave birth to my second baby girl—and this time, it was a completely different experience. I had a plan. I prioritized mental health, sought support early, and gave myself the grace to prepare for the emotional and physical demands of postpartum life. It was then that I truly realized: no mother should feel alone after birth.
That realization became the foundation for my practice.
Motherhood, even if it’s not your first time, is an occupation. It’s full of physical, emotional, and mental demands—often with very little guidance or support. My passion lies in walking beside moms through it all: breastfeeding, pumping, creating routines, navigating postpartum recovery, hitting infant milestones, preparing to return to work, choosing the right baby gear, and more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road.
One of the biggest challenges I face in my practice is encouraging mothers to prioritize their own well-being and seek support when needed. Many families rely solely on their primary care providers for guidance, but the truth is that physicians often don’t have the time—or in some cases, the awareness—to refer to the full range of postpartum specialists available.
While many healthcare professionals have good intentions when it comes to supporting new mothers, certain concerns—such as breastfeeding challenges, pumping education, positioning, sleep, maternal mental health, returning to work, and infant development—may require more specialized care.
Another hurdle is the belief that many of the struggles moms face after birth are just “part of the process.” While these experiences may be common, that doesn’t make them normal or something a mother has to endure alone.
There’s also an overwhelming amount of information online and on social media. Unfortunately, much of it is shared without professional insight or fact-checking, which can lead to confusion and misinformation.
The encouraging news is that once a mother gives herself permission to seek support—whether from an occupational therapist like myself, or from a mental health provider, physical therapist, IBCLC, chiropractor, or another postpartum specialist—she often begins to feel more empowered, supported, and confident in her journey.
We’ve been impressed with Nurture and Thrive OT, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Nurture and Thrive OT is a mobile occupational therapy practice serving Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas.
We are dedicated to supporting mothers, babies, and young children through personalized, family-centered care that meets families exactly where they are—both figuratively and literally (we come to you!)
We specialize in maternal health during pregnancy and postpartum, offering expert support in breastfeeding, pumping, and bottle feeding. Our services also include infant developmental screenings, early intervention, and customized pediatric occupational therapy for children with developmental needs.
What truly sets us apart is our holistic, relationship-driven approach. Every treatment plan is tailored to reflect the unique goals, routines, and values of each family we serve. We go beyond clinical care—we provide nurturing support that empowers parents and fosters connection during one of life’s most transformative seasons.
As a mother of three very different children, I bring not only professional expertise but also lived experience. I’m open about my personal journey—including its struggles—because I believe that transparency builds trust and reminds families they’re not alone.
At Nurture and Thrive OT, our mission is simple: to support, guide, and empower families so they can truly thrive—together.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories is traveling with my family. No matter what challenges we faced, my parents always made it a priority to plan trips and create meaningful experiences together. Some of my best memories are of us exploring new cities and spending days at amusement parks—especially riding roller coasters with my dad, which was always such a good time! Those experiences are my most memorable, and now I strive to create the same kind of meaningful, adventurous memories with my own family. In our free time, you’ll often find us out exploring, traveling, or spending the day at an amusement park.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nurtureandthriveot.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurtureandthriveot/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Nurture-and-Thrive-OT/61558336162190/
