As an occupational therapist, Varleisha is passionate about designing strategies to support
individuals in their journey to live their most independent and fulfilled lives. In addition to being a licensed occupational therapist, she is an author, speaker, and expert in the areas of neurological connections for self-regulation, sensory processing, trauma-responsive care, and health and wellness.
Varleisha’s experience extends beyond her professional training, as her personal journey
consists of various traumatic events that have shaped who she is today, including growing up in high-crime and low-income environment, contending with the absence of her biological father, navigating the death of various family members, and facing her own complex medical diagnoses. With her family’s support, Varleisha flourished and found solace and relief from her physical and emotional pain through the arts.
She played the piano, sang in choirs, studied theater, and eventually became a professional dancer. These experiences led Varleisha to develop a love for social service, philanthropic initiatives, and healing through the arts. Learning to overcome these obstacles and heal holistically has helped Varleisha thrive in her multi-faceted professional career. She holds four degrees in psychology, occupational therapy, and health sciences and leadership, focusing on health disparities in the autism community. After spending nearly a decade in community practice helping children and families with special
needs, she eventually landed in academia and chaired the first occupational therapy program in the state of Delaware.
Varleisha subsequently became the first Black American woman to serve as the Scientific
Programs Officer at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. While still in leadership as a vice president at her national association, Varleisha continues to lecture internationally and has authored four books, one of which is a bestseller. She has dedicated her time to teaching professionals, parents, teachers, and others the importance of using rhythm and movement to promote health and well-being. She desires to help shift others toward growth and healing despite traumatic experiences, diagnoses, or suboptimal living conditions.
Dr. Varleisha addresses barriers to empowerment and offers a way to overcome them.
Dr. Varleisha participates in the podcast Momnificent hosted by Dr. Karin Jakubowski, to provide insight into sensory processing disorders.
Dr. Varleisha provides information and advice in this interview with ADHD - What now?
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