Tracy Jalaba

Dr. Tracy Jalaba is an Associate Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California’s Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. She specializes in expanding Lifestyle Redesign® programs for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), mental health challenges, and sleep disorders. Her work spans clinical practice, professional development, and policy advocacy. She serves on the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Mental Health Special Interest Section steering committee and has represented occupational therapy in the USC Office for Student Accessibility Services for seven years.

• Education: OTD (2015), MA in Occupational Therapy (2014) – both from USC; BS in Exercise Biology (2010) from UC Davis

Dr. Jalaba’s research focuses on improving mental health care systems, college student well-being, and ASD-specific interventions. She is a certified PEERS® Young Adult Provider and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. Her publications address chronic condition management frameworks, mental health policy responses, and wellness strategies for neurodivergent populations.

As a clinical faculty member at USC Occupational Therapy Faculty Practice (OTFP), she integrates evidence-based practices into real-world settings. She advocates for occupational therapy’s expanded role in addressing societal mental health challenges through interprofessional collaboration and systemic advocacy.