Varleisha D. Lyons

Dr. Varleisha D. Lyons is a lecturer, researcher, developer of the Self-Regulation and Mindfulness program, and coauthor of Raising Kids with Sensory Processing Disorders.

Dr. Lyons received her baccalaureate degree in psychology from the University of Delaware. She continued her studies in the field of occupational therapy and received her master of science degree from Columbia University and her clinical doctorate in occupational therapy from Thomas Jefferson University. In addition, she successfully completed a PhD program in health sciences at Seton Hall University. Those professional relationships allowed her to take part in various research activities. Specific focus was given to neurological disorders throughout the lifespan, such as autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing disorders, and dementia.

In 2003, Dr. Lyons founded Universal Progressive Therapy, Inc., located in New Jersey. The company was established with the focus of providing interdisciplinary and quality therapeutic services to families. Dr. Lyons’s published research has focused on family-centered care and autism spectrum disorders and the use of telerehabilitation. No longer part of Universal Progressive Therapy, she has dedicated her time to being a lecturer, educating practitioners, parents, and teachers throughout the country and internationally.

As the inaugural chair and director of the first master’s program of occupational therapy in Delaware, Dr. Lyons is steadfast. She is an expert in the fields of neurology, cognition, and pediatric therapeutic intervention and is an advocate of evidence-based practices and making clinical connections to neuroanatomy, which is evident in her lectures. Utilizing the best evidence is paramount to Dr. Lyons; however, she has a strong appreciation of allowing learners to challenge information, leading to further research development. Currently, her research and efforts continue, with a specific interest in mentoring future researchers.