Varleisha D. Gibbs, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, ASDCS

Varleisha D. Gibbs, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, ASDCS, is an occupational therapist and author with over 18 years of experience working with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing disorders, and Neurological disorders. She is the vice president of practice engagement and capacity building at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Dr. Gibbs is the former scientific programs officer at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. She also served as the inaugural chair and director of the master's programs in occupational therapy at Wesley College in Dover, DE, where she was a tenured associate professor. Prior to joining Wesley, Dr. Gibbs worked at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, PA, where she served as the director of the doctoral programs in occupational therapy.

Dr. Gibbs is steadfast and an expert in the field of neurology, cognition, and pediatric therapeutic intervention. She lectures and provides training on sensory processing strategies and self-regulation to practitioners, parents, and teaches throughout the country and internationally. Dr. Gibbs is the developer of the self-regulation and mindfulness program and author of the best-selling, Self-Regulation and Mindfulness: Exercise and Worksheets for Sensory Processing Disorder, 85 Activities to Move Clients Toward Healing, Growth and Improved Functioning (PESI Publishing & Media, May 2021). As co-author of Raising Kids with Sensory Processing Disorders, she has provided families with strategies to understand and care for their children. Dr. Gibbs is certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).

Speaker Disclosures:

Financial: Dr. Varleisha Gibbs has employment relationships with the American Occupational Therapy Association and Wesley College. She receives a speaking honorarium and recording and book royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.

Non-financial: Dr. Varleisha Gibbs serves on the Commission on Practice committee for the American Occupational Therapy Association. and is a member of the Freelee Foundation Executive Board of Directors. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.