Denise Figueroa-Leon

OKOT Group Assistant - Berkeley & Oakland, CA

Hi, I’m Denise! I grew up in Oakland and am passionate about being in community and supporting children and families. I hold a BA in Liberal Studies and an AA in Child Development, with over a decade of experience in early childhood education across San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.

I support children through a child-led, play-based, and relational approach. I build strong rapport and attune to each child’s unique needs using a culturally responsive and trauma-informed lens. I love seeing how children connect with nature, which I believe is healing and taps into our sense of wonder, curiosity, and joy.

I’m currently completing prerequisites for a Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy. When I’m not studying, I volunteer in a pediatric rehab department, learning to see my role as an OT through various lenses. I love learning alongside the children and OTs as we explore and make meaningful connections to ourselves, each other, and the natural world.

I value play throughout the lifespan and try to embody the same joy I bring to young children. You’ll often find me outdoors, journaling, photographing nature, birding, roller skating, enjoying live music, or spending time with family, all ways I stay curious, present, and playful.