Jasmin Thomas, OTD, OTR/L, BCP

Personal Statement

Dr. Jasmin Thomas is a dedicated occupational therapist with extensive experience serving children in diverse settings, including hospital-based preschool programs, homecare early intervention, and both private and public facilities for students with special needs. She specializes in the holistic intersection of physical, cognitive, and emotional health and mental well-being.

A significant contribution to the field is Dr. Thomas's creation of the Emotional Intelligence: Soft Skills Training Curriculum (EIC), which has been adopted nationally in healthcare education. As the faculty director, she led the development of the EIC, a program that enhances emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and communication skills in students, preparing them for success in clinical rotations and their future careers.

Dr. Thomas is also a strong advocate for healthcare reform, collaborating with community organizations to ensure equitable care for all. She is equally passionate about mentoring the next generation of occupational therapists, empowering them to break down barriers in healthcare and contribute to a more inclusive environment.

Education:

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) - University of South Dakota, School of Health Sciences
• Master of Science, Occupational Therapy (MS) - Utica College, School of Health Professions and Education
• Bachelor of Science (BS) - Boston University, Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Advanced Clinical Certifications

• American Occupational Therapy Association - Board Certification in Pediatrics (BCP)

Awards, Honors, and Grants

• SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service
• Diversity in Medicine Mentorship Award
• Dr. Nuala McGann Drescher Diversity and Inclusion Award
• Citation by Eric Adams, Brooklyn, New York City - COVID Heroes
• Pioneer of Hope Award by State Senator Jesse Hamilton
• Academic Partners Fieldwork Grant, New York City Bureau of Early Intervention

Notable Publications and Presentations:

• Thomas, J. (2022). The effectiveness of a modified typing tutorial program for students with intellectual disabilities. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation International, 9(1), 1196.
• Thomas, J., Adames, S., Gonzales, A., Milina, E., & Zhao. (2019). Developing and evaluating the effectiveness of Emotional Intelligence: Soft Skills Training Curriculum, an educational training for healthcare students during clinical rotations. Annals of Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy, 2(4): 00135.
• Thomas J, Moriah C, Turkell J, Wagman M and Restivo J. (2019). Using an interdisciplinary educational video to enhance pediatric residents’ understanding of Occupational Therapy Services. Physical Medicine Rehabilitation International, 6(1): 1161.
• Thomas, J., Beyer, J., Sealey, L. (2018). Emotional Intelligence: Developing soft skills to increase students’ success during fieldwork experience and as practicing clinicians. AOTA: Special Interest Sections Quarterly Practice Connections, 3(2), 8-10.
• Thomas, J., Carroll, M., Turkell, J. & Wagman, M. (2015). Occupational Therapy in Early Childhood: A Guide for Pediatricians and Caregivers. American Academy of Pediatrics. Retrieved from NY3AAP website.
• Kahila, A., Thomas, F., & Thomas, J. (2017). International Level II Fieldwork: A 360 Degree Perspective. AOTA OT Practice, 22(10), 22-24.
• Thomas, J. et al. (2017). Emotional Intelligence: Soft Skills Training Curriculum. Downstate Health Sciences University. Retrieved from Downstate website.
• Thomas, J. (2013). Cultural competence in OT. Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, 29(14), 15-16, 27.
• Thomas, J. (2011). Power of words. Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, 27(5), 28.