In celebration of Occupational Therapy Month and Autism Acceptance Month, members of the Master of Occupational Therapy Program are presenting an exhibit of a selection of photos and captions that were collected during a 2024 Master of Occupational Therapy Photovoice research project. That research sought to understand the supports and barriers to communication, relationships, and self-expression for neurodivergent adults. The multi-modal means of expression, through taking photos, writing captions, and discussing in focus groups, enabling neurodivergent adults to convey their lived experiences in a profound way.
Using these artifacts from the study, the faculty-led research group of MOT students are now investigating the impact of this exhibit on participants' attitudes, understanding, and empathy toward neurodivergent individuals. We are conducting a brief pre- and post-survey to collect data about the impact of the exhibit on viewers. Additionally, individuals may opt to participate in a brief interview to gather more information about their experience with the exhibit. This study is completely voluntary.
This continuation of previous research is in collaboration with The Sensory Coach, owned and operated by Sarah Norris, OTR/L. The Sensory Coach provides services to neurodivergent teens and adults, combining a variety of approaches, including occupational therapy, coaching, sensory integration, mind-body therapy, couples and group therapy, and more.
Special thanks to the anonymous neurodivergent adults who took part in the study, Sarah Norris, OTR/L, Elsie Pollari, OTD, OTR/L, students from the MOT class of ‘25 Sarah Mak, OTS, Paulina Ramirez, OTS, and Claudia Sacha, OTS, and students from the MOT class of ‘26 Sydney Boland, OTS, Elizabeth Buchanan, OTS, Olivia Frail, OTS, Margaret Manthey, OTS, Abigail Veith, OTS.
If you have any questions, need more information, or are interested in the results following the completion of the study, please contact the faculty lead investigator: Elsie Pollari, OTD, OTR/L.
