GENEVA, IL, August 21, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Liz C. Ani, Ph.D., has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Ani has established herself as a dedicated occupational therapist, most recently as both founder of and serving member of A&O Therapy, a newly formed private entity. In this capacity, she has been instrumental in conducting research, reflecting on her newly invented innovative tools and strategies known as Therapeutic Optimism, and collaborating with partners to produce adaptive resources and strategies for children and individuals with multiple learning disabilities, neurological issues, and brain traumas. Her work involves exploring and enhancing various therapeutic tools designed to support children's development and learning abilities, with a particular focus on those facing unique challenges. Also, her expertise extends to adults with neurological traumas. Through her efforts, Dr. Ani has contributed to the advancement of hands-on, connection-focused techniques and a positive learner approach, focusing on therapeutic strategies that promote engagement and an effective learning approach tailored to diverse needs.

Throughout her career, Dr. Ani has developed and implemented the concept of therapeutic optimism across multiple school districts, an approach centered on fostering self-awareness tools to help children manage challenges both at school and at home. She has shifted from directive language to more inclusive phrasing, creating supportive environments that reduce isolation for students. By working closely with parents, Dr. Ani has enhanced their understanding of neurological issues affecting their children, integrating positive reinforcement strategies that have led to significant improvements in students' behavioral outcomes and functional performance.

In preparation for her career in this sector, Dr. Ani earned a master's degree in Occupational Therapy from Governors State University in 2011 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership with distinction from National University in 2024. Her dissertation focused on PEL Leadership inclusion for school-based occupational therapists. With her professors' approval, her dissertation topic became the second to be published in the USA. Dr. Ani is grateful to the National University for its influence and support on her successful doctoral studies.

Dr. Ani is an occupational therapy consultant known for her holistic approach and therapeutic connections with her clients and patients. Her expertise in utilizing educational and medical models to treat complex medical and educational-related issues is remarkable. She received multiple awards and nominations for her outstanding contributions in educational and health settings. Dr. Ani is board-certified as an occupational therapist by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.

Dr. Ani is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Occupational Therapy Association, the Illinois Occupational Therapy Association, and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. These affiliations reflect her dedication to ongoing professional development and her commitment to advancing standards within her field.

Beyond her primary career objectives, Dr. Ani continues to make significant contributions to research within her field. She plans to share her findings through professional associations, such as the American Occupational Therapy Association and the Physical Therapy Association.

A defining moment in Dr. Ani's professional journey occurred during her tenure in Saint Charles, where she worked with a middle school student with cerebral palsy who struggled with severe anxiety and hypersensitivity. Recognizing a language barrier as a key factor in his distress, Dr. Ani learned simple Spanish phrases to communicate more effectively with him. This cultural humility and sensitive approach resulted in significant progress, where the student was able to participate in school activities for extended periods, a notable improvement from his previous limitations. This experience stands as one of Dr. Ani's proudest accomplishments.

Dr. Ani attributes her success to determination and a strong desire to honor her mother's legacy. Inspired by her mother's perseverance despite not having access to formal education due to dyslexia and anxiety, she remains motivated to excel and demonstrate that achievements can transcend familial barriers. She also expresses gratitude for living in a country that fosters empowerment and opportunity, which further fuels her ambition and accomplishments.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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