About Matrescence Occupational Therapy

Owner, Co-Founder

Gayle Schwee, OTR, MOT, PMH-C

Gayle is a Filipinx-American, born and raised Texan, mother, wife, caregiver, and occupational therapist. She has a passion for connecting with others. Just as the pandemic was shutting down the world, Gayle birthed her first child by c-section. She felt isolated and far removed from the person she was before. In her search to find that strong woman again, she co-founded Matrescence Occupational Therapy. Her mindset shifted to concentrate on changing the standard of care in maternal health. Her goal is to empower moms to find strength within themselves to do what they want, need, and have to do. She loves teaching families to engage with their babies in developmental play. She recognizes the significance of mindfulness and stress reduction as essential to forward progress. Gayle is encouraging and sees the potential in others; she is intrigued by the unique qualities that each person brings. Her strength in building relationships gives her clients confidence to strive for their goals. She loves to dance, listen to live music with her daughter and husband, travel with family, and experience new things. She has jumped out of a plane, been hypnotized, and disappeared by David Copperfield.

Licensed and Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR)

Bachelor of Arts in Biology, University of Texas Austin

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT), University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio

Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C), Postpartum Support International

Credentials

Specialized Education and Training

Maternal Health:

  • Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy Training, Postpartum Support International

  • Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care, Postpartum Support International

Hey there!

I’m Gayle, it’s so nice to meet you.

Before becoming a mother, I was already an occupational therapist, but going through pregnancy, birth, and that first intense year of motherhood completely shifted my perspective. It was during this transformative time that I realized the kind of professional support I truly needed: an occupational therapist.

Motherhood—from planning to start a family to navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond—is so full of change. This period of life, often called matrescence, brings physical, hormonal, emotional, and social shifts that deserve more support and attention than we are currently offered. That’s why Matrescence Occupational Therapy was started: to fill a gap in care for mothers during these incredible but challenging transitions.

As an occupational therapist, I specialize in breaking down life’s demands into manageable pieces and finding practical, hands-on solutions. My focus is on collaboration—working with you to build on your strengths and those of your child so you can face the challenges of motherhood with confidence. Whether it’s juggling the needs of a newborn, adjusting to postpartum life, or simply rediscovering your sense of self, I’m here to help.

My goal is to equip you with tools, strategies, and the confidence to feel empowered, enjoy the things that matter most to you, and stay connected to who you are—all while embracing this unique journey.