Emily K. Simpson, Ph.D., M.S., OTR/L

Dr. Simpsons' research is primarily qualitative, with an emphasis on the lived experiences of communities and individuals who have been historically marginalized/oppressed. Her primarily research interests include:

Homelessness in LGBTQ+ young people : Dr. Simpson explores occupational identity in LGBTQ+ young people who are unhoused (i.e. shelters, transitional living facilities, supportive housing), including the development of identity as a worker through work self-efficacy interventions. She also investigates how the unique experiences of this population are shaped by discrimination, oppression, and family and other social contexts, and additionally how their resilience and resourcefulness impact their occupations and daily routines.

How healthcare providers experience addiction and stigma In the workplace : The most stigmatized health condition worldwide is illicit drug use disorder and all forms of addiction/substance use are socially unsanctioned. For people experiencing addiction, stigma can result in decreased self-efficacy, mental health challenges, and a host of additional health and social consequences. When applied to a workplace environment where social norms and behavioral expectations often devalue differences in experience and identity, stigma can further isolate people from colleagues and negatively impact work quality and satisfaction. For people with experiences of addiction, stigma can even result in a reticence to work. Between 10-15% of all medical professionals are diagnosed with substance use disorder within their lifetime and approximately one-third of HCPs report having concern about a colleague's substance use. Healthcare providers (HCPs), including occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs), with experiences of addiction report refraining from seeking help because of stigma, fear of repercussions, shame, and a perceived lack of support. Substance use/addiction impacts the individual, the workplace, and patients who may receive care from impaired providers; therefore Dr. Simpson's research accesses the lived experiences of these providers in order to identify ways to support their recovery.

Relationship of trauma and violence to occupation : Dr. Simpson has conducted research on the experiences of people in same-sex relationships who have experienced partner violence and the needs that they have related to life skill development and social participation. Her current interests focus on how trauma shapes people's experiences of occupation, including the trauma of violence, poverty, food insecurity, homelessness, and displacement.