Transform lives through Occupation, Service, and Advocacy.

The Entry-Level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program lives out Loma Linda University's mission to serve others through a holistic approach that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. The program combines hands-on education with meaningful service, giving students real-world experience in local clinics, service-learning projects, and mission trips both locally and globally. Discover how our students are making a difference!

Community Engagement

Students and faculty engage with the community in various areas, including:

  • Kinship support services
  • Senior care services
  • Domestic violence organizations
  • Caregivers for family members with dementia

Dedicated to service, our students participate in community service opportunities throughout the program. Many students also choose to serve on mission trips with the School and the University. Additionally, we serve at the Thursday night clinic at Crosswalk Church.

Interdisciplinary Community Outreach Center (ICOC)

At the Interdisciplinary Community Outreach Center (ICOC), our mission is to improve the health and well-being of families as a whole and enhance community inclusion. We provide access to compassionate interdisciplinary care, resources, services, and contribute to research and education within the healthcare community.

Occupational therapy students work side by side with faculty to provide services and develop programs for families. These include individual treatments, group programming, and educational workshops for parents and caregivers. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students collaborate with other professionals such as Speech and Language Pathologists and Dieticians to best serve families in our local community.

Programs offered through the center include:

  • School Readiness
  • Early Literacy
  • Handwriting Camp
  • Infant Massage
  • Individual Treatment
  • Independent Life Skills for Adolescents with Autism

Recognition and Awards

The Department of Occupational Therapy received the Community Engagement Award for integrating community engagement into the curriculum, establishing local, regional, and national clinical sites through community program initiatives, enhancing the positive image of the health sciences institution, and demonstrating unwavering commitment and passion for community welfare. Dr. Liane Hewitt accepted the award on behalf of the Department from University President Dr. Richard Hart.