Michele Tilstra

Michele Tilstra is the founding Program Director of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Western States. She holds a PhD in Health Science (2023), a post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (2018), and a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (1995). Licensed in Ohio and Oregon, she has 30+ years of clinical experience across diverse settings including hand therapy, mental health, acute care, and community outreach.

• PhD in Health Science, Youngstown State University (2023)
• Post-Professional OTD, Rocky Mountain University (2018)
• Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy, Louisiana State University (1995)

Her research focuses on mental health across the lifespan, emphasizing trauma-informed care, student mental wellness, cultural competence with humility, and interprofessional education. She has co-developed the COPE in the Community Program, funded by a $1.9 million HRSA grant, and conducted studies on employability skills frameworks and technology-driven interventions for older adults.

Scientific awards include the HRSA BHWET Professional Track Grant. She has taught continuing education courses nationally and served on the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Academic Leadership Council and Mental Health Specialty Interest Section. Tilstra is also active in community initiatives, including volunteer work at Living Water Church and interprofessional collaboration projects.