Aaron Bonsall, PhD, OTR/L

Associate Professor, OT Programs

Campus

San Marcos, CA

College

College of Rehabilitative Sciences

Specialties

Pediatrics

Education

Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Science, University of Southern California
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Temple University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Utah

Research Interests

Family Occupations
Fatherhood
Narrative
Family-Centered Care

Dr. Aaron Bonsall joined the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences as an Associate Professor in 2021. Dr. Bonsall earned a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Temple University in 2005 and his Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Science from the University of Southern California in 2013. His PhD dissertation examined the experiences of fathers of children with disabilities.

Since then, Dr. Bonsall has expanded his research to include families and supporting parents through family-centered care. His publications include book chapters and journal articles in occupational therapy, family studies and disabilities studies. His commitment to the promotion of occupational science led him to serve as both the Treasurer and Communications Chair of the Society of the Study of Occupations: USA.

Dr. Bonsall has experience teaching courses related to research and theory. He has worked with students on doctoral capstone projects and research projects. His experience as a therapist and a researcher allows him to apply theory and evidence-based practice to the learning process. Prior to entering academia, Dr. Bonsall practiced as an occupational therapist in the Los Angeles Unified School District, with preschoolers in Philadelphia and on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona.