Varleisha D. Lyons

Dr. Varleisha D. Gibbs PhD, OTD, OTR/L is a lecturer, researcher, developer of the Self-Regulation and Mindfulness program, and co-author of Raising Kids with Sensory Processing Disorders. Dr. Gibbs began her career after receiving her baccalaureate degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware. She continued her studies in the field of Occupational Therapy. Dr. Gibbs received her professional degrees from Columbia University and Thomas Jefferson University. At Columbia University, she received a Master’s of Science degree. Her clinical doctorate in Occupational Therapy, was received at Thomas Jefferson University. In addition, she successfully completed a PhD program of Health Sciences at Seton Hall University. Those professional relationships allowed her to take part in various research activities. Specific focus was given to neurological disorders, throughout the lifespan, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, and Dementia.

In addition to her educational development, in 2003 Dr. Gibbs founded Universal Progressive Therapy, Inc. located in New Jersey. The company was established with the focus of providing interdisciplinary and quality therapeutic services to families. Dr. Gibbs’s published research has focused on family-centered care and Autism Spectrum Disorders and the use of telerehabilitation. No longer part of Universal Progressive Therapy, she has dedicated her time to being a lecturer educating practitioners, parents, and teachers throughout the country and internationally. As a the inaugural chair and director of the first Master’s program of occupational therapy in Delaware, Dr. Gibbs is steadfast and an expert in the field of neurology, cognition, and pediatric therapeutic intervention. Hence, she is an advocate of evidence-based practices, and making clinical connections to neuroanatomy, which are evident in her lectures. Utilizing the best evidence is paramount to Dr. Gibbs. However, she has a strong appreciation of allowing learners to challenge the information leading to further research development. Currently, her research and efforts continue, with specific interest in mentoring future researchers.