Dr. Birgitta Gunnarsson

Biography

Birgitta Gunnarsson is an Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg. She has extensive experience as an occupational therapist, particularly in psychiatric care, where she has worked on clinical practice and method development. Birgitta is actively involved in academia and clinical practice, collaborating with researchers and occupational therapists across several countries, including Australia, Switzerland, Austria, and Cyprus. Her research primarily focuses on mental health and illness, everyday occupations, and creative activities that are related to health and well-being. She employs both quantitative and qualitative research designs, particularly in intervention studies. As a principal and co-supervisor for several doctoral students, she is engaged in various ongoing research projects, including the development of models for patient safety in elderly care transitions and the exploration of motivations for treatment in adults with ADHD. Birgitta also participates in a network for developmental research in stress and contributes to various publications in her field, aiming to enhance occupational therapy practices and promote health and well-being among vulnerable populations.

Research Interests