Elizabeth Williams, PhD, OTR/L, CHT

Elizabeth Williams, PhD, OTR/L, CHT is an Assistant Clinical Professor in Occupational Therapy at Roosevelt University and a recent graduate from PhD studies at Northern Illinois University with a diverse background spanning clinical practice, leadership, and higher education as a recent transition from full clinical practice. Throughout her career, she has been committed to delivering evidence-based, patient-centered care while advancing the occupational therapy profession through mentorship, education, and clinical excellence. After a successful career in rehabilitation services, Elizabeth recently transitioned from direct clinical practice into academia, where she now serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor. Drawing on her extensive experience as a practicing occupational therapist and Certified Hand Therapist, she is dedicated to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through innovative teaching, clinical mentorship, and the integration of real-world practice into the classroom. In May 2026, Elizabeth earned her PhD in Health Sciences, further strengthening her commitment to scholarship, research, and academic leadership. Her doctoral work reflects her passion for advancing healthcare education and improving outcomes through evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. The research presented at this conference is the result of her dissertation examining the relationship between physical injury and pre-existing psychosocial distress and subsequent implications for practice. Elizabeth is passionate about empowering both patients and students to reach their fullest potential and is committed to shaping the future of occupational therapy through education, research, and service.