Occupational Therapy in Forensic Settings

Objectives: 

1.)Describe the key forensic psychiatric settings and populations served, including how legal context shapes the occupational profiles and treatment trajectories of forensic clients.

2.)Articulate the unique value of occupational therapy in forensic psychiatric settings by connecting OT's core philosophy to the functional, recovery-oriented, and community reintegration needs of forensic clients.

3.)Identify at least three evidence-informed OT assessment or intervention strategies applicable to forensic psychiatric practice at the individual, group, or systems level.

About the speaker:

Heather Gilbert, OTD, OTR/L is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the entry-level occupational therapy doctorate program at Tufts University, where she teaches courses in areas including psychosocial practice, group theory, community-based and emerging practice. She serves as a doctoral experiential capstone mentor for students completing projects in forensic psychiatric facilities, substance use treatment programs, and community mental health settings, work that reflects her broader commitment to expanding OT's presence and evidence base in mental and behavioral health practice. Heather also serves as a Legislative Co-Chair for the New Hampshire Occupational Therapy Association, where she works to advance policy and reimbursement issues affecting all areas of OT practice.