Dr. Hironaka is an assistant professor and the academic fieldwork coordinator in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Bradley University. She brings over 30 years of clinical experience working with adults with neurological and orthopedic conditions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Hironaka holds a Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate from Valparaiso University. She holds specialty certifications in the AOTA Board Certification for Physical Rehabilitation and Neurodevelopmental Treatment. Dr. Hironaka’s research interests include clinical competency and interprofessional education/collaboration.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Dr. Hironaka has over 30 years’ experience as an occupational therapist. She practiced in inpatient and outpatient hospital settings. Her areas of expertise include low vision and neurodevelopmental treatment in adults.
TEACHING
Dr. Hironaka teaches graduate level courses within the occupational therapy department. She takes pride in mentoring student projects and experiential learning opportunities.
SCHOLARSHIP
Dr. Hironaka’s research interests include clinical competency and interprofessional collaboration. Dr. Hironaka is currently conducting research related to using a behavior change model to promote health literacy. She has presented at national and international clinical conferences on various topics related to the acute care setting.
SERVICE
Dr. Hironaka is a member of the Bradley College of EHS Curriculum and Regulations and Elections Committees. She is also a member of the Illinois Occupational Therapy Association Awards Committee and Fieldwork Consortium.
LICENSURES AND CERTIFICATIONS
- NBCOT - Board Certified Occupational Therapist
- AOTA - Board Certified in Physical Rehabilitation
- NDTA - Certified in Neuro-Developmental Treatment