Kathleen Norman

Dr. Kathleen Norman is a Professor and Associate Director (Research & Post-Professional Programs) in the School of Rehabilitation Therapy at Queen's University, Faculty of Health Sciences. She earned her PhD in Rehabilitation Science from McGill University and has been a faculty member since 1998. Her research focuses on physiotherapist workforce dynamics, student education, and clinical practice patterns. She co-leads initiatives like the Back ON study on low back pain management and collaborates on cultural adaptation of pain interventions. Norman supervises graduate students in Rehabilitation Science, Aging and Health, and Rehabilitation and Health Leadership programs. Her roles include cross-appointments as an Associate Scientist and leadership in community rehabilitation research. She is affiliated with professional bodies like the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and Ontario Physiotherapy Association.

Education:

• PhD in Rehabilitation Science (McGill University, 1997)
• Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (Queen's University, 1987)

Research Interests:

• Physiotherapy education and workforce issues
• Clinical competence assessment
• Palliative care and primary care models
• Cross-cultural pain management

Professional Contributions:

• Developed the Canadian Physiotherapy Assessment of Clinical Performance (ACP) tool
• Advocated for educational standards in physiotherapy curricula
• Promoted interprofessional and community-based rehabilitation practices