Erin Schwier, EdD, OTD, OTR/L

Dr. Erin Schwier is the Associate Dean for the Occupational Therapy programs at USAHS. She also serves as the OT Program Director on the San Marcos, CA campus and is an Associate Professor. She brings more than 20 years of experience working with children with disabilities and their families to her position. She previously worked as a pediatric therapist for multiple school districts and clinics in San Diego County, specializing in sensory integration, community integration, and the influence on academic performance and social skills 

In 2025, Dr. Schwier was appointed by California Governor Gavin Newsom to serve on the California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT). Through this prestigious appointment, she contributes to guiding occupational therapy practice across the state, ensuring high standards of safety, ethics, and professional competency.  

She is a frequent presenter on topics related to occupational therapy education, pediatric and mental health practice, and has published in professional journals including OT Practice and the Disability Journal of Health. She has contributed chapters and served as editor for occupational therapy textbooks and co-authored Breaking Bread and Nourishing Connections (Brooks Publishing, 2005). Her most recent research focuses on occupational therapy education and the integration of service learning to support the development of student self-efficacy.