Document Type

Student Paper

Publication Date

2017

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain a better understanding of the life experiences of Kathy Dolan, an influential occupational therapist in the development and advancement of the profession in the state of Wyoming. Purposive sampling was utilized by the project directors to obtain participants for the study. Data was collected through a semi-structured interview and observation. Interview questions were structured to address the person, environment, and occupation components influencing each participant. The Kawa model was also utilized to guide the interview schedule in order to develop a timeline of the participant’s life journey. Data from the interview was audio recorded, transcribed analyzed utilizing a coding process. Three categories emerged from this process: making a difference, being a pioneer, and adaptability. Results from the study found that Kathy Dolan was a pioneer in various populations and was an advocate at the local, state, and national level. Results also indicated that Kathy Dolan strongly believed in the adaptability and flexibility of occupational field, and that meeting the client’s needs is crucial to practice.

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