Anne Kirby

Dr. Anne Kirby is an Associate Professor in the Department of Occupational & Recreational Therapies at the University of Utah and holds an adjunct appointment in Psychiatry. Her research focuses on autism spectrum disorder, suicide prevention, and transition to adulthood for youth with disabilities. She employs community-based participatory approaches to ensure relevance to affected communities.

Dr. Kirby earned a BS and MS in Occupational Science/Therapy from the University of New Hampshire and a PhD in Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her clinical background includes work in early intervention, school settings, and inpatient care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Her recent work addresses suicide risk in autistic populations, caregiver support systems, and policy implications for disability inclusion. Notable grants include the 'Socioecological Study of Autism, Suicide Risk, and Mental Health Care' (2024-2025) and 'Participatory Research for Suicide Prevention in Autism.' She teaches courses like Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Theory and OT Process - PsySoc I.

Dr. Kirby has received awards including the Vitae Scholar Award (2021) and Cordelia Myer Best AJOT Article Award (2016). She chairs the national Autism and Suicide Workgroup and actively contributes to professional organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association.