A Journey of Growth and Independence

As an occupational therapist working closely with young individuals facing executive functioning deficits, I've been privileged to witness transformations that not only redefine success but also illuminate the profound impact of our field. Today, I want to share a story of hope and progress—a testament to how tailored intervention, teamwork, and motivation can significantly alter a young person's life trajectory. This story addresses the concerns often voiced by parents worried about their children's futures.

When I first met my client, an upcoming sophomore in college, in June last year, they were at a crossroads. Having barely navigated through their freshman year, the reality of almost failing out of college weighed heavily on them. Withdrawn and disengaged, their only goal was vaguely "going to college," with no clear path to overcome the numerous hurdles ahead.

Our journey began with understanding who my client was as a person. We recognized their strengths and weaknesses and, critically, uncovered their motivations. Initially, motivation was elusive until we discovered the joy their dog brought them. This joy became the stepping stone to more internally motivating activities and the foundation of our therapeutic relationship—built on honesty, respect, and the sharing of perspectives.

Through our journey, we tackled daily activities, scheduling, and the daunting challenges of college life. I alternated between pushing and stepping back, respecting their autonomy. This balanced approach enabled them to gradually take control of their decisions, steering their life towards success.

Fast forward to today, and the transformation is remarkable. Just last week, they faced an academic onslaught—three papers, two tests, and a project, all due within two weeks. A year ago, this would have overwhelmed them. However, this time, we approached it as another challenge to overcome. Together, we broke down tasks, adjusted schedules, and remained in communication even outside scheduled sessions, viewing the journey from a holistic perspective.

The result? My client not only managed but excelled, attending every class, meeting every deadline, and completing quizzes on time, all while waking up earlier and working longer than usual. This was not just a collective effort; it was a testament to their individual growth and newfound resilience.

Equally important has been the role of a collaborative team, from parent coaching to academic supports at university. From the outset, my client’s parents, though apprehensive, recognized the potential and engaged actively in the therapeutic process. Their evolving perspective played a crucial role in the consistent gains observed.

It's essential to understand that my client is not “fixed”—but nor are they “broken.” They have initiated a personal journey, crafting a path towards a specific destination. Their executive functions have begun to align, and while there are still areas for improvement, those are challenges for another day. This summer, my client is preparing to travel independently and is driven to enhance their independence further, including mastering driving—a thought inconceivable a year ago.

This story underscores the impact of the right balance of intervention and independence. As an occupational therapist, I advocate for seeking a therapeutic interventionist tailored to your needs. To all parents and professionals working with young people: with commitment, understanding, and tailored interventions, remarkable progress is within reach. This is the message of hope I wish to convey.