Dr. MaryBeth Gallagher is an assistant professor in Orthopaedic Surgery and an occupational therapist and occupational scientist with over 25 years of teaching experience. She joined the OTD program after working at UNC Hospitals where she was a clinical specialist in mental health and a mentor on the AOTA Fellowship in Mental Health.
What excites you about your role at Duke?
The opportunity to be part of creating a novel and exciting occupational therapy program. Watching students light up when they make the connection between their own occupational engagement and its impact on their health. It is also exciting to work with such an imaginative and dedicated group of people – everyone in OTD is committed to the vision of this program in everything we do. We’re not perfect and we know it but there is a willingness to learn together.
Where do you see your specific field and specialty advancing in the next five years?
I see occupational therapy continuing to become integral to the health and wellness of people and populations far beyond the medical system in this country. I see more occupational therapists practicing in mental health in the community where people live and work and grow. Currently, only 3% of all OTs in the USA practice in mental health. As we continue to demonstrate the impact that engagement in meaningful occupations has on health, wellbeing, and connection to self and others the more our unique contribution to health and wellbeing will be recognized and valued.
What are your current research goals?
My research goals at the moment are centered on understanding and promoting occupational justice and improving access to mental health services. I am currently working on a Bass Connections project that addresses the lack of diverse representation of research participants with sensory needs post-stroke with participatory research methods. I also am in the process of starting a non-profit community mental health organization with some amazing co-founders to promote and improve mental health, wellbeing, and belonging for people with challenges and barriers to good mental health.
What excites you about teaching?
I love to watch students bloom into occupational therapists through learning. I love being a small cog in a big educational wheel that underpins the transformation of these optimistic and dedicated individuals into optimistic and dedicated occupational therapists!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Averill Park, NY.
What brings you personal joy?
Watching my three young adult boys become amazing young men and grow together as brothers even as they take their own individual life paths through life.
I think many people know that I am a HUGE rugby fan, especially when it comes to supporting Ireland, and Munster (our local club from back in Ireland)! When I am not watching rugby, I am probably watching birds! I just find them fascinating and beautiful. I also love being creative – be it jewelry making, paper quilling, or baking.
As an occupational therapist, I know the value of meaningful occupations in keeping healthy and well. I try to keep myself occupationally balanced by engaging in a range of meaningful occupations.