Dr. Janet Falk-Kessler, Professor Emerita of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine (Occupational Therapy) at Columbia University, served as the Director of the Programs in Occupational Therapy, Vice Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, and Assistant Dean for Education at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. With clinical expertise working with clients with major mental health disorders, and a long career in educating occupational therapy students and practitioners, Dr. Falk-Kessler has nearly 150 publications and presentations in juried journals, books, and professional conferences. In her role as faculty member and as Director, she helped design innovated programs for those with major mental health disorders; assisted in establishing the country’s first joint MS/MPH program for occupational therapists; spearheaded the development of two occupational therapy doctoral programs at Columbia University; and facilitated New York State’s adoption of the OTD degree. She currently teaches in Columbia’s doctoral programs, is a member of the New York State Department of Education’s Board for Occupational Therapy, is on and has been on several editorial boards for professional journals, and serves as a consultant to academic programs. She has received professional awards for her contributions to education, has been named Fellow of the AOTA, is a recipient of New York Occupational Therapy President’s Award for her contributions to the profession, and is a recipient of New York State Occupational Therapy Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, Columbia University established the Janet Falk-Kessler Lectureship and Day of Scholarship in her honor.
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