Dr. Varleisha D. Lyons Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L is the Vice President of Practice Engagement and Capacity Building at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). She previously served as the Scientific Programs Officer at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. Dr. Lyons is an occupational therapist, international lecturer, researcher, and author. Her areas of expertise include neuroanatomy, self-regulation strategies across the lifespan, health inequities, and trauma-responsive approaches. Dr. Lyons founded and operated a private therapy firm for over 10 years.
Dr. Lyons began her career after receiving her baccalaureate degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware. She continued her studies in the field of Occupational Therapy, receiving a Master’s of Science degree from Columbia University and a clinical doctorate from Thomas Jefferson University. Dr. Lyons completed her Ph.D. program in Health Sciences Leadership at Seton Hall University.
SAFE Initiative 