Dr. Hansen received her PhD in Occupational Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she focused on factors impacting participation in the sensory environment for autistic children. She also holds dual Masters degrees in Cognitive Neuropsychology and Occupational Therapy, and a Bachelors degree in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology. Her education has given her a strong background in how the brain processes sensory information and the functional impact of neurological differences on one’s ability to meaningfully engage with the world around them. Dr. Hansen is also trained in sensory assessment and evaluation using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

As a licensed occupational therapist, Dr. Hansen works with individuals with a wide variety of sensory needs and preferences in home, school, and community settings. She is passionate about advocating for the inclusion of her clients in the built environment by embracing their unique sensory functioning, and affording them the dignity of trying to understand a space from their perspective. Her educational, clinical, and research experiences make her exceptionally suited to consult with architects, designers, and families who are interested in supporting this same goal of embracing neurodiversity in the built environment.

You can read more about her ongoing research, teaching, and clinical experiences, as well as view her full curriculum vitae here.