What do you do to promote the health of your most valuable tools… your hands?

When pain affects your arms, it prevents you from doing even the simplest everyday tasks: such as getting dressed, preparing a meal, or even getting through a workday. This pain may even interfere with your ability to do the things you enjoy most: like playing golf, spending time with your family, or getting a good night sleep.

At Hands For Life Therapy, I understand how much pain in the elbow, wrist and hands can interfere with your life. It is my job to provide you with the highest quality of service and expertise to help you get beyond the pain and return you to doing what matters most in your life.

Whether you suffer from joint pain, muscle aches, or tingling along the arm or hand, at Hands For Life Therapy, I am committed to providing you with what you need to fix your most valuable tools.

Therapist Bio

I earned my Master’s degree in occupational therapy from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL in May 2000.  I have been practicing outpatient occupational/hand therapy for 21 years and I am a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), which is the highest recognition of competency in the profession of upper extremity rehabilitation.

In 2014, I attained the credential of Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) by the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (IAOM) in the specialty area of the hand and upper extremity. This program trains rehabilitation professionals to help differentially diagnose and treat upper extremity conditions in a more efficient and effective manner.

I am currently earning a PhD in Occupational Therapy at Nova Southeastern University.  I am also a Faculty Specialist at The University of Scranton in Scranton, Pennsylvania teaching hand therapy to students in the Master of Science Program in Occupational Therapy.

I strive to help every one of my clients to reach their highest level of function.  I am actively involved in community education, service, and research.  I promote the use of functional activities to facilitate healing and wellness.

  • Pennsylvania State Licensure Occupational Therapy # OC007257L
  • Hawaii State Licensure Occupational Therapy # 1580
  • National Board Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy for the Upper Extremity (COMT)
  • Certification for Graston Technique Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • National Board Certification in Hand & Upper Extremity Rehabilitation (CHT) # 1081100219
  • Certification for Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization (ASTYM)
  • National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy # 1040142
  • Certification for CPR / BLS / First Aid
  • American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT)
  • American Occupational Therapy Association # 000004335010

Lisa Kozden,

MOT, OTR/L, CHT, COMT

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Client Reviews

Very well mannered, and structured place.

Very personable and treats every one who comes in with respect. Very knowledgeable in her field. Also holds great importance that the treatment and treatment plan one receives is only going benefit the patient. Lisa Kozden is fantastic in the work she provides and the amount of work ethic that she shows rivals that as well. You will always be satisfied when you leave from her care.

Kyler S.

Lisa is amazing!

She is working wonders with my elbow and hand. Only a month post-op and I have progressed so much. Highly recommend Lisa! I also love that she works the essential oils into the therapy regimen. Coming out of major surgery, therapy can be uncomfortable sometimes to get your range of motion back.. I am always comfortable and relaxed. 5 stars from me!

Justine E.

Absolutely phenomenal hand therapist!

Lawrence W.

Best therapist!

I always recommend Lisa

MaryAnn C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Occupational therapy (OT) focuses primarily on function…especially in the upper body.  This is because our arms and hands are so important to how we live and perform activities that are so important to us (also known as “occupations”).  Occupational therapists are trained to analyze the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of people to help them return to doing meaningful occupations at home, work and play/leisure. 

A CHT is an occupational or physical therapist who has a minimum of five years of experience, 4,000 hours of treating people with upper body conditions, and must pass a national board certification exam offered by the Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC).  Over 85% of CHTs are occupational therapists due to their training in upper body function and focus on person-centered care.  There are only 6,000 CHTs worldwide.  To locate a CHT in your area, please visit www.htcc.org

Most insurance companies do cover both physical and occupational therapy, however, if your physician orders certified hand therapy, be sure to verify this credential when you call to make an appointment for therapy.  Also, call your insurance company for detailed information on what type of coverage and out of pocket expenses you may incur by using your insurance.  Many CHTs, such as Hands For Life Therapy, offer private pay options that are often cheaper than using your insurance!

At this time, occupational therapy does require a doctor’s order to initiate treatment, however, if you call a CHT to schedule an appointment, they are often able to contact your family physician to obtain an order for you.  If you have had surgery, your surgeon will be the one to refer you to Certified Hand Therapy.