Brenda Merritt

Brenda Merritt is an Associate Professor and Dean at the School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. She holds cross-disciplinary expertise in education and health sciences.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies (Colorado State University, 2000-2007)
• M.S. in Occupational Therapy (Colorado State University, 1997-2000)
• B.S. in Psychology (Colorado State University, 1996-1997)
• B.S. in Equine Science (Colorado State University, 1986-1990)

Research Focus:Brenda Merritt specializes in interprofessional health education, curriculum design and evaluation, and innovative educational strategies for professional behavior development. Her work also examines how chronic conditions, injuries, health determinants, and environmental contexts affect daily life participation, particularly in HIV rehabilitation and disability studies.

Selected Research Contributions:Her recent publications address professional practice behavior indicators, HIV-related disability frameworks, cognitive assessment tools in addiction treatment, and interprofessional education integration. These works span occupational therapy assessment methods, structural equation modeling, and competency alignment in health education.

Scientific Recognition:

• Recipient of the 2013 Faculty of Health Professions Teaching Excellence Award
• Winner of the 2009 Class of 2001 Faculty/Staff Recognition Award

Professional Affiliations:Active member of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, Nova Scotia Society of Occupational Therapists, and World Federation of Occupational Therapists.