Rachel Guilfoyle, O.T.D., OTR/L

Rachel Guilfoyle brings 20 years of experience as an occupational therapist to the developing M.S. in Occupational Therapy (OT) program, which also offers an accelerated five-year B.A.-to-M.S. pathway for undergraduates. “Joining McDaniel felt like a natural step in continuing my commitment to the profession and helping shape the next generation of competent, skilled OTs,” she says. She holds an M.S. in OT from Elizabethtown College and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Towson University.

I’ve always been drawn to helping people regain their independence and improve their quality of life, especially after illness or injury. Early in my journey, I shadowed an OT in a therapy pool, and that experience completely shifted my perspective. I saw the impact OT could have, and I knew it was the path for me. My clinical focus includes orthopedic and neurological conditions across clinical settings. I have extensive experience in treating traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, strokes, progressive neurological conditions, complex medical cases, and low vision. I find great purpose in helping individuals adapt and thrive — no matter their circumstances.

I came to Maryland to complete clinical rotations, most notably at the University of Maryland Rehabilitation and Orthopaedic Institute, where I began to understand the depth and complexity of OT — not just in theory, but in practice. I learned how to adapt my clinical reasoning across a range of diagnoses, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and advocate for my patients in meaningful ways. I have also worked in outpatient clinics, home health, skilled nursing facilities, and acute care units. Alongside clinical work, I have taught both master’s and doctoral students, which sparked my interest in helping shape the next generation of OTs. Throughout my 20 years as an OT, my experiences have strengthened my commitment to lifelong learning and inspired me to remain curious, adaptable, and open to feedback — qualities that I believe are essential to being an OT.

McDaniel’s strong commitment to student success and its collaborative, inclusive environment really resonated with me. As a graduate of Elizabethtown College — a small liberal arts college — McDaniel felt familiar and welcoming from the moment I visited. I was drawn to the college’s emphasis on hands-on learning and its mission to develop compassionate, well-rounded professionals. Being part of a program that values clinical competence and critical thinking aligned with my own teaching philosophy.

I hope my students leave with a strong appreciation for the uniqueness of each client they encounter. Since clinical situations are rarely textbook-perfect, I encourage students to think critically, stay flexible, and put the client at the center of care. I also stress the importance of advocacy for clients, themselves, and the profession. Ultimately, I want them to build confidence and resilience to succeed in a dynamic health care environment, while staying grounded in the core values of OT.