Heidi Maxwell

Heidi Maxwell is a Principal Lecturer at the University of Brighton, affiliated with the School of Education, Sport and Health and the Centre for Arts and Wellbeing. She has over two decades of experience in occupational therapy education, transitioning from clinical practice in mental health to academic leadership in therapeutic occupation.

Education:

• PhD in Occupational Therapy, University of Brighton (2014–2020)
• Master’s Degree, University of Kent (1998–1999)
• Bachelor’s Degree, Canterbury Christ Church University (1990–1993)

Her research centers on the therapeutic potential of everyday and creative occupations, especially embroidery, in promoting health and well-being. She explores how transformative arts and meaningful engagement in daily activities can support mental health and personal change. Her work intersects occupational science, public health, and creative therapies, emphasizing the mind-body connection and companionship through craft.

Her recent work, including the 2022 article Embroidering as a transformative occupation, highlights a growing trend in using handicrafts as evidence-based therapeutic interventions. These publications reflect a consistent focus on transformative occupation, well-being, and the integration of arts into healthcare.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• No specific awards listed in the text.

Heidi Maxwell actively contributes to academic quality assurance through external examining roles at multiple institutions, including the University of Worcester, Robert Gordon University, University of Bradford, and York St John University. While no grants or student supervision details are provided, her sustained research output and leadership in curriculum development suggest significant advisory and scholarly impact. She is also involved in the Centre for Arts and Wellbeing, indicating collaborative work within interdisciplinary teams focused on arts-based health interventions.