Rebecca O'Brien

Rebecca O'Brien serves as a Senior Lecturer and Course Director for the Occupational Therapy BSc (Apprenticeship) at Canterbury Christ Church University within the Department of Allied Health Professions and Dental Practice. She joined the teaching team in 2021 after building a diverse clinical career spanning intermediate care, neurological rehabilitation, community mental health, and social care.

Her educational background includes:

• Qualification from Canterbury Christ Church University (2009)

Dr. O'Brien passionately advocates for occupational therapy's transformative potential in individual and societal contexts, with specialized research focus on therapy animals to enhance occupational engagement and wellbeing. Her work bridges clinical practice and academic instruction through her Clinical Academic Fellow role.

As Course Director, she leads curriculum development and program oversight for the Occupational Therapy Apprenticeship. While specific research grants and student advisees aren't documented in available materials, her leadership shapes future occupational therapy professionals through innovative teaching approaches.