Darlene Brooks

Darlene Brooks, Dr. OT, OTR/L is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX, part of the College of Health Professions. With over 33 years of clinical experience, she brings extensive practical knowledge to her academic role.

Education:

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (2020)
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, University of Florida

Dr. Brooks' research and clinical interests center on enabling meaningful occupations across the lifespan. Her expertise includes pediatric and adult rehabilitation in diverse settings such as schools, home health, outpatient clinics, long-term care, and inpatient rehabilitation. She focuses on assistive technology, seating and positioning, driver readiness assessments, and home/worksite evaluations. Her work emphasizes client-centered practice and functional independence.

She has presented at professional conferences including the Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA) and Florida Occupational Therapy Association (FOTA), and is an active member of AOTA, TOTA, and FOTA. Her background includes teaching as an adjunct professor in occupational therapy assistant programs, particularly in occupational analysis and pediatric interventions.

Professional Affiliations:

• American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
• Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA)
• Florida Occupational Therapy Association (FOTA)

Dr. Brooks has held leadership roles such as regional manager supervising rehabilitation departments in nursing homes across Florida. Her clinical work has involved comprehensive assessments, documentation improvement, reimbursement training, and implementation of evidence-based practices. While no formal advising or grant activities are detailed, her extensive clinical and educational engagement demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing occupational therapy practice and education.

She has contributed to professional development through conference presentations and interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare settings, including brain injury day treatment programs and inpatient rehabilitation hospitals.