Steering Committee Member

Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy at USC

Marilyn Thompson, OTD, OTR/L, is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California (USC), where she specializes in health promotion, wellness, and the management of chronic health conditions. Dr. Thompson’s work focuses on advancing integrative health approaches that enhance both prevention and self-management for individuals with chronic illnesses. She teaches graduate-level courses on Lifestyle Redesign®, an innovative occupational therapy intervention aimed at improving health outcomes through sustainable lifestyle changes, as well as a course focused on the role of occupational therapy practitioners in health promotion and primary care.

A passionate advocate for health equity, Dr. Thompson is committed to reducing health disparities in underserved communities by delivering high-quality, culturally sensitive care. In her clinical role at the USC OT Faculty Practice outpatient clinic, she applies Lifestyle Redesign® to support clients dealing with chronic conditions, behavioral health challenges, and a range of other medical diagnoses, empowering them to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Dr. Thompson’s work reflects her dedication to promoting holistic health practices, bridging the gap in healthcare access, and advocating for the transformative potential of occupational therapy in both clinical and community settings.