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Description
Through my ALE, focused on education in Boyd County Public Schools, I implemented trauma-informed interventions to support students affected by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). My goals were to help children develop emotional and sensory regulation skills, educate school staff on how to support students navigating trauma, and raise awareness of the lifelong impact of ACEs and the value of therapeutic services. ACEs—such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction—can disrupt childhood development and lead to poor long-term health and increased need for medical and educational services. It is crucial that professionals help students process and manage these experiences. I delivered 1:1 interventions with students identified through a district-wide screening tool and collaborated with school-based behaviorists to tailor support. Progress was assessed through student interviews and discussions. I also provided a professional development session for teachers and administrators, including a PowerPoint and resource binder, followed by a group discussion. Throughout the project, I demonstrated leadership by coordinating meetings, planning interventions, and collaborating with my site mentor and school staff. This experience advanced the field of occupational therapy (OT) by advocating for the profession’s role in school-based mental health and trauma-informed care. My work highlighted how OT skills can support regulation and resilience in students while educating educators on tools they can use in the classroom. By addressing the prevalence and impact of ACEs, this project underscores the importance of collaboration between OTs and educators to improve student well-being and academic success.
Graduation Date
2025
Keywords
occupational therapy, school-based, OTD capstone, education, adverse childhood experiences
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Site Mentor
Amanda Kidwell, OTR/L
Comments
Link to presentation: https://youtu.be/t_jWAxyY20c