Doctor of Occupational Therapy Student
Des Moines University
Haley Bird, OTD/S, COTA is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) student at Des Moines University (DMU) in Des Moines, IA, with an anticipated graduation in May 2026. Her clinical interests include skilled nursing, outpatient, and acute care, with a particular focus on serving rural Iowa communities. Prior to pursuing her doctorate, Haley worked as a certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA) in skilled nursing facilities across rural Iowa, as well as in the Des Moines and Ames areas. She has experience in a variety of roles, including PRN, part-time, and full-time positions, providing care in post-acute rehabilitation, long-term care, and geriatric therapy settings. Haley earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Physiology from the University of Iowa and later completed her Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree at Kirkwood Community College. She is passionate about increasing access to high-quality occupational therapy services in underserved areas and integrating holistic, client-centered care into rehabilitation settings.