More Than a Client: Building Trust and Collaboration in OT Practice

Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Location: 101A-C

Panel Presenters: Gifty Abraham, OTD, OTR/L; Sarah Schaubroeck; Wyatt Schaubroeck

Session Description: This plenary session will highlight the lived experience of a former pediatric OT client and his mother as they reflect on their journey through occupational therapy. They will share key moments that fostered trust, advocacy, and a sense of partnership in care. Their story will offer attendees insight into what meaningful engagement looked like for their family and how the therapeutic relationship with an OTP played a vital role in supporting the child’s progress across settings.

Dr. Gifty Abraham will offer the practitioner and educator perspective, emphasizing the intentional use of a strength-based lens and coaching as an interactive style to foster and empower family engagement. Drawing on this experience, she will discuss how these relational approaches helped affirm the family’s voice, build confidence, and sustain collaborative care. The session will encourage attendees to reflect on how OTPs can create safe, responsive, and empowering environments that center the lived experiences of the individuals and families they serve.