Early Intervention for Adulthood: Occupational Therapy’s Vital Role in Secondary Transition Services
Date of Award
Spring 5-2025
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Health Science
Faculty Mentor
Ranelle Nissen, PhD, OTR/L
Keywords
self-determination, transition to adulthood, occupational therapy, school-based therapy, high school, special education
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
Transition to adulthood is an essential stage of development, especially for those with disabilities. Occupational therapy practitioners are qualified to play a vital role in a young adult’s transition to adulthood within school settings, yet the majority of therapists are not serving transition-aged youth. This capstone utilized the Zarrow Institute on Transition & Self-Determination, specifically the “ME! Lessons for Teaching Self-Awareness & Self-Advocacy” and “TAGG Lesson Plans” lessons as a programming intervention foundation within a school-based setting to support transition-aged young adults currently served by the school district’s special education program, and classified as in a regular classroom at least 40% or more of the day, or are in a post-high school transition program to target the development of self-determination, meal preparation, and grocery shopping as well as explored how occupational therapy can support the transition to adulthood in a community resource setting.
Recommended Citation
Blatchford, Carolyn A., "Early Intervention for Adulthood: Occupational Therapy’s Vital Role in Secondary Transition Services" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 154.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/154