Biography
Dr. Amy J. Thomas joined ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥'s Occupational Therapy Department as a full-time faculty member, Fall 2014. Drawing from a diverse professional and educational background, Dr. Thomas embraces a student-centered approach to teaching and is fully committed to inclusivity and supporting diverse learning styles. Earning a B.S. in Music Education from West Chester University, Dr. Thomas spent the first 20+ years of her professional career as an instructor, business owner, and certified coach with the United States Sports Acrobatic Federation (USSAF) and United States Gymnastic Federation (USGF). During that time, Dr. Thomas instructed and coached individuals of all ages, and became a staunch advocate for inclusive participation.
Upon completion of her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree, ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥, Dr. Thomas worked as a school-based occupational therapy practitioner, serving students ages six to 21 years. As a practitioner, she promoted a strength-based approach, supporting and advocating for individuals with neurodiverse learning needs. She actively promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, and conducted workshops on Understanding Autism, Evidence-based Intervention Strategies for Individuals with Autism, Therapeutic Relationship Building, and Sensory Environments.
Dr. Thomas earned her Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) at Chatham University, Pittsburgh, in 2012 and was overjoyed to accept the full-time teaching position at ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ - her alma mater! In addition to teaching responsibilities, Dr Thomas currently serves as the MSOT Program Director. Her past and current research interests include: autism spectrum disorder (ASD), neurodiverse learners, hippotherapy, academic-program development, and nature-based interventions.
Dr. Thomas is an Autism Spectrum Disorder Certified Specialist (ASDCS), and is currently pursuing certification as a Nature Therapy Guide (Natural Wellness Academy, Tampa, FL). In her free time she enjoys hiking, yoga, and spending time in nature.