Merging the roles of student and contributor, Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD) student Mim Ochsenbein is helping shape the very textbook that will guide tomorrow’s occupational therapists. The PP-OTD student has co-authored the chapter on Social Emotional Learning in the new ninth edition of the core occupational therapy textbook, “Case-Smith’s Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents.”  

“[Writing] the chapter for Case-Smith was a wonderful experience,” shared Ochsenbein. “I was asked to participate by the chapter lead, Dr. Colleen Whiting, along with my other colleague, Renee Allen. I have worked for several years with both of these brilliant women and deeply respect their experience and knowledge.”

Ochsenbein, who has been a pediatric occupational therapist for over 25 years, had previously co-authored one other chapter: “Trauma, Occupation, and Participation: Foundations and Population Considerations in Occupational Therapy” (2021).  

“I gained a lot from this process,” Ochsenbein expressed while reflecting on her co-authoring journey. “The research needed for my sections of the chapter (which focused on supporting the social-emotional learning needs of adolescents through OT) expanded my clinical toolbox and increased my awareness of evidence-based approaches and interventions available for this population.”

Ochsenbein's writing and research make an impact not only on future occupational therapy students, but also on her own personal and professional growth.  

“On a more personal note,” shared Ochsenbein, “the work on this chapter helped me gain more confidence in my professional writing and my voice as clinician who has something worthwhile to share with my colleagues and future colleagues.”