Beth Pyatak

Beth Pyatak is an Associate Professor and Director of the Lifestyle Redesign® Knowledge Mobilization Initiative at the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. Her work focuses on developing occupational therapy interventions for chronic condition management, particularly in diabetes and health inequities. She directs the Lifestyle Redesign for Chronic Conditions research lab, emphasizing lived experiences and innovative interventions to improve health outcomes. Dr. Pyatak holds a PhD in Occupational Science and has authored over 50 peer-reviewed studies. Her research integrates intensive longitudinal methods, examining relationships between daily activities, glycemic control, and psychosocial well-being in Type 1 diabetes populations. She has pioneered telehealth delivery models for young adults with diabetes, demonstrating improved psychosocial outcomes through interventions like REAL Diabetes. Her work spans clinical trials, implementation science, and health equity initiatives.

Education: PhD (2010), MA (2004), and BA (2002) in Occupational Science/Therapy from USC; MS in Clinical Research (2015). Her research lab develops interventions addressing diabetes self-management, transition care for emerging adults, and occupational balance. Current projects include the REAL-T telehealth trial and investigations into overnight glucose impacts on daily functioning. She collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to translate occupational science into clinical practice, emphasizing culturally responsive care for underserved populations.

Key contributions include validating the Occupational Balance Questionnaire and advancing telehealth as an accessible care model. Her work highlights the interplay between daily habits, stress, and health outcomes, with special attention to marginalized groups. Grants include NIH-funded studies on diabetes management and lifestyle interventions. She mentors students through USC’s OTD and PhD programs, fostering future leaders in occupational therapy research and practice.