Natalie Loera

Natalie Loera, OTD, OTR/L is an Assistant Clinical Professor and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at the University of the Pacific. Dr. Loera completed her Master of Arts and Doctoral degrees in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California, where her doctoral research focused on the role of occupational therapy in supporting student mental health in the public-school setting. Dr. Loera has experience in a variety of pediatric settings and continues to be a passionate advocate for school-based occupational therapy practice. She has presented at professional conferences on topics including evidence-based practice and expanding roles for occupational and physical therapists in school-based practice.

During her time teaching in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program, Dr. Loera has developed a strong commitment to supporting the holistic development of occupational therapy students. Her goal as an instructor and as the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator is to prepare students for successful and sustainable careers by promoting diversity and inclusion, self-care, and advocacy. She is also excited to build community with the program’s clinical partners and support both seasoned and novice fieldwork educators in achieving their mentorship goals!

When Dr. Loera is away from the office, she can be found “veganizing” her family’s traditional Mexican recipes, engaging in outdoor occupations, and spending quality time with her spouse and their two cats, Luna and Harry Henderson.”