Date of Award

5-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Susan Frisbie Yu, OTD, OTRL

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves

Abstract

Neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based practices are a growing area of focus within occupational therapy, viewing neurological differences as natural variations of human diversity rather than deficits to be corrected. This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on applying these perspectives within the Work-to-Work Clinic, a Level I occupational therapy fieldwork clinic that serves young adults with neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability. Commonly-used assessments and treatment materials at the clinic were outdated, deficit-focused, and poorly suited to this population’s developmental stage, leaving many clients with unmet needs. Additionally, Level I fieldwork students are still developing clinical reasoning skills and would benefit from structured, accessible resources that support the use of neuro-affirming practices during evaluation and intervention. To meet the identified needs, current assessments were reviewed and either revised, revamped, or supplemented with guides for interpretation, aiming to reduce deficit-based framing and better support neurodivergent clients. A neuro-affirming evaluation guide, treatment manual, and educational presentations were also designed using current evidence to inform students’ practice and are sustainable for long-term use. These resources provide the clinic with the means to use neuro-affirming approaches while aligning with occupational therapy’s role in promoting self-advocacy, participation, and quality of life for neurodiverse clients.

Comments

Capstone Experience & Project Presentation Video Supporting Neurodiversity-Affirming Care in a Young Adult Occupational Therapy Clinic

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