Beyond the Uniform: A Veteran’s Path to Holistic Healing

This Veterans Day, Duke’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program highlights the transformative power of service and healing through the story of Chante Perlberg, OTD'27. With a background as a veteran and military spouse, Chante’s path to occupational therapy is rooted in lived experience, empathy, and a drive to support others through life’s most difficult transitions. Her journey reflects not only personal resilience but also a deep understanding of how meaningful occupation can restore identity, independence, and hope.

“In the military, we often focused on the mental aspects of trauma and injury, but I found it interesting how the rehabilitation process was rarely discussed,” Chante shares. “That gap sparked my curiosity about how people rebuild their lives after physical or psychological challenges.”

Chante’s connection to the military community runs deep. Having grown up in a military family, served herself, and now being married to a service member, she’s seen firsthand the complexities of recovery. Her interest in addressing the complete picture of trauma—mental, physical, and emotional—led her to occupational therapy.

“Occupational therapy focuses on the whole person—their mind, body, and meaningful daily life—and I want to bring that holistic care to military members and veterans in my future career.”

Her time in the military taught her the importance of adapting and persevering. “I know what it feels like to have your guard up constantly and to feel like you can’t be seen as broken or incapable,” she says. “Those experiences gave me a deep understanding of resilience and the importance of helping others find strength in vulnerability.”

Chante believes that growth often comes from facing challenges and using those experiences to shape one’s path forward. “As a future occupational therapist, I want to help others do the same: to take their skills, experiences, and struggles, and transform them into opportunities for healing, independence, and self-discovery.”

At Duke OTD, Chante has seized opportunities to refine her skills and develop her clinical voice. One of the most impactful experiences has been working with simulated clients during the Advanced Practice Experience Simulation Week and related course assignments. “Those sessions allowed me to step into the role of the occupational therapist I’ve always envisioned becoming,” she shares. “They helped me recognize my strengths, identify areas for growth, and reaffirm that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”

For Chante, Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served and the sacrifices made by both service members and their families. “It’s a reminder that freedom comes with a cost and a moment to reflect on the experiences that have shaped me—and the chance to continue serving others through my future as an occupational therapist.”

Chante’s story highlights how the values and skills gained through military service can carry forward into new roles of care and leadership. Her journey is a testament to the power of purpose, and to the meaningful ways veterans continue to serve—long after their time in uniform.