Marilyn Thompson

Marilyn Thompson, OTD, OTR/L, LRC, is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California (USC) Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. She holds a master’s and doctorate in occupational therapy from USC. Her clinical and academic work focuses on expanding the role of occupational therapy in primary care settings, particularly in addressing chronic conditions, bariatric care, mental health, and pediatric obesity. Dr. Thompson completed her doctoral residency at Kaiser Permanente Inglewood Medical Clinic and West Los Angeles Hospital, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration to improve patient self-management of chronic illnesses.

• Education: Master’s and OTD in Occupational Therapy from USC
• Practice: Clinical faculty at USC OT Faculty Practice; residency experience at Kaiser Permanente and West Los Angeles Hospital

Her research interests include reducing health disparities through culturally sensitive care and increasing access to occupational therapy services for underserved communities. She actively advocates for diversity in the OT profession, having participated in outreach programs targeting Latinx students and middle-schoolers. Dr. Thompson’s blogs reflect her commitment to professional development, student well-being, and overcoming imposter syndrome. She plans to pursue a clinical residency in primary care at Kaiser Permanente and continue doctoral research.