Jasmin Thomas

Jasmin Thomas is an Associate Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University's School of Health Professions. With extensive experience serving children in diverse settings including hospital-based preschool programs, homecare early intervention, and both private and public facilities for students with special needs, Dr. Thomas specializes in the holistic intersection of physical, cognitive, and emotional health and mental well-being.

Dr. Thomas holds a Doctor of Occupational Therapy from the University of South Dakota, School of Health Sciences, a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Utica College, School of Health Professions and Education, and a Bachelor of Science from Boston University, Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. She is Board Certified in Pediatrics (BCP) by the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Dr. Thomas's research focuses on occupational therapy, particularly in pediatrics, emotional intelligence training, and healthcare education for special needs populations. A significant contribution to the field is her creation of the Emotional Intelligence: Soft Skills Training Curriculum (EIC), which has been adopted nationally in healthcare education. Her work emphasizes the holistic intersection of physical, cognitive, and emotional health and mental well-being, with particular attention to special needs children and cultural competence in practice.

Her publication record demonstrates a strong focus on practical applications of occupational therapy, with particular emphasis on emotional intelligence training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative educational approaches. The trends in her research show a consistent commitment to improving outcomes for children with special needs through evidence-based practice and developing effective training methods for healthcare professionals.

• SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Faculty Service
• Diversity in Medicine Mentorship Award
• Dr. Nuala McGann Drescher Diversity and Inclusion Award
• Citation by Eric Adams, Brooklyn, New York City - COVID Heroes
• Pioneer of Hope Award by State Senator Jesse Hamilton
• Academic Partners Fieldwork Grant, New York City Bureau of Early Intervention

Dr. Thomas is a dedicated mentor to the next generation of occupational therapists, empowering them to break down barriers in healthcare and contribute to a more inclusive environment. She actively collaborates with community organizations to advocate for healthcare reform and ensure equitable care for all. Her leadership as faculty director in developing the Emotional Intelligence: Soft Skills Training Curriculum demonstrates her commitment to innovative educational approaches that prepare students for success in clinical rotations and their future careers.

Her work extends to creating educational resources such as the 'Occupational Therapy in Early Childhood: A Guide for Pediatricians and Caregivers' and developing interdisciplinary educational videos to enhance pediatric residents' understanding of Occupational Therapy Services. Dr. Thomas continues to be an influential figure in occupational therapy education and practice, with a particular focus on emotional intelligence, cultural competence, and innovative approaches to serving children with special needs.