Kitsum Li

Kitsum Li, OTD, OTR/L, CSRS, serves as a tenured Professor and Doctoral Capstone Coordinator in the Department of Occupational Therapy within Dominican University of California's School of Health and Natural Sciences. A certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist, she pioneered community-based head injury therapy in Hong Kong and brings over 30 years of U.S. clinical experience across hospital rehabilitation, skilled nursing, outpatient, and home healthcare settings.

Education:

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, 2005
• M.S. in Occupational Therapy, State University of New York at Buffalo
• B.S. in Occupational Therapy, State University of New York at Buffalo
• Professional Diploma in Occupational Therapy, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 1986

Her scholarship centers on cognitive rehabilitation for acquired brain injuries and cancer survivors, multi-factorial fall prevention for older adults, age-in-place resiliency, and interprofessional education. She integrates advanced certifications (NDT, Neuro-IFRAH, Bioness) with evidence-based practice to address hemiplegia, Parkinson's, and stroke recovery through contemporary interventions like LSVT-BIG and FallProof.

Recent publications (2022-2024) reveal a strong trend toward virtual/digital solutions for TBI motor/balance impairments and fall prevention, emphasizing community accessibility and Rock Steady Boxing adaptations. This reflects her commitment to translating research into practical, technology-enhanced clinical tools for neurological populations.

Scientific Awards & Certifications:

• Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist (CSRS)
• Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) Certification
• Neuro-IFRAH Certification
• Advanced Practice License in Hand Therapy (California)
• FallProof Instructor & Matter of Balance Master Trainer
• LSVT-BIG Therapy Certification
• Tai Chi for Arthritis/Fall Prevention Certification

As Doctoral Capstone Coordinator, she mentors OTD students while leading interprofessional initiatives like the West Marin County outreach program. Her grant-adjacent work includes developing the Program-wide Digital Portfolio for professional growth and evidence-based resources such as cardiac ICU protocols. Conference presentations focus on behavioral interviews for OT admissions and stroke rehabilitation collaboration.

Dr. Li actively partners with community organizations through Matter of Balance and FallProof programs, emphasizing rural accessibility and intergenerational connections to advance occupational therapy's role in aging-in-place and neurological recovery.