Occupational Therapist

Carolyn “Carrie” Elizabeth Abad is an occupational therapist based in the Waldorf, MD area with a focus on treating conditions related to the shoulder, elbow, and hand. She currently works as part of the team at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics (CAO). Originally from Laurel, MD, Carrie has lived in Tampa, FL, Pittsburgh, PA, and Annapolis, MD, before settling in Waldorf. Carrie has a particular passion for hand therapy, specially creating custom splints tailored to her patients’ needs.

Education

Carrie graduated from Towson University with her undergraduate degree before continuing her education at Gannon University, where she earned her Doctor of Occupational Therapy. Throughout her career, Carrie has completed a variety of continuing education courses, with a special emphasis on manual therapy, orthosis courses and other courses related to hand therapy.

Experience

Carrie has worked in multiple outpatient settings, gaining valuable experience in treating a wide range of conditions. Her primary focus has been on orthopedic conditions of the shoulder, elbow, and hand for both Adult and Pediatric populations. She has also worked with pediatric fine motor disabilities and occasionally CVA patients. Carrie enjoys the challenge and creativity involved in hand therapy and the opportunity to support patients through the rehabilitation process.

Philosophy

Carrie’s treatment approach is collaborative, focusing on understanding what is most meaningful to each patient. She emphasizes patient education and actively involves her patients in discussions about their conditions, helping them understand their options at every step of the healing process. The best part of her work is getting to know her patients’ unique stories and being part of their journey to recovery.

In her personal time, Carrie enjoys spending time with her husband, Dylan. She is passionate about traveling, hiking, and photography, often capturing the beauty of the world around her. Carrie values her connection to the community and is excited to continue her work with CAO and the local area.