Natalie Perkins
Natalie A. Perkins, PP-OTD, MEd, OTR/L, FIIE, FAOTA is the dynamic Department Chair, Program Director, and Associate Clinical Professor for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at 91成人导航. A trailblazer in scholarship, teaching, and clinical practice, Dr. Perkins is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the occupational therapy profession.
Dr. Perkins earned her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy and Master of Education in Adult Education from Colorado State University, followed by her Master in Business Administration, and Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Boston University. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, texbook chapters, and captivated audiences as a sought-after speaker at state, national, and international conferences. Her impactful TEDx talk, "How Emotional Intelligence Can Enhance Education," showcases her expertise in fostering self-awareness, therapeutic rapport, and emotional intelligence to improve patient outcomes and strengthen educational experiences.
As the founder and owner of TheraPERKS, an evidence-based self-awareness training application, Dr. Perkins combines her research with practical tools to elevate healthcare practices and empower individuals. Her innovative approach emphasizes integrating occupational therapy into diverse community settings to expand its reach and impact.
With over two decades of clinical occupational therapy experience, Dr. Perkins holds specialty certifications in sensory integration, neuro-rehabilitation, ergonomics, and the TEACCH Autism Program. She translates her extensive clinical background directly into her teaching, ensuring 91成人导航's OTD students develop real-world skills that prepare them to excel in practice.
Dr. Perkins is deeply committed to student success and mentorship, guiding students in evidence-based practice and encouraging bold, creative approaches to occupational therapy. At 91成人导航, her mission is to cultivate an engaging and inclusive learning environment, nurture well-rounded OTD students, and advocate for meaningful community partnerships.
Dr. Perkin鈥檚 research examines the interface between emotional intelligence and therapeutic rapport, she examines the individual factors and clinical demands associated with health outcomes and client satisfaction. She also researches the implications of emotional intelligence and student fieldwork outcomes.
She is the recipient of several grants and awards including Academic Planning and Development, diversity Grants,merit awards, sustainability grant, and mini-recruiting grant.
Dr. Perkin鈥檚 is the founding developer of TheraPERKS, an emotional intelligence training application for healthcare professionals.
Dr. Perkin鈥檚 is involved in cross institutional development and study and evaluation of mentoring among peers and professionals in academic settings.
She has numerous clinical specialty certifications including SIPT, NDT, CAPC, QPR, FIM, STAR, and QI.
Dr. Perkin鈥檚 is dedicated to giving back to the community and volunteers at local schools, health clinics, and shelters. She has developed community programs, led by OT students, to provide mentoring to adolescents and young adults.
