SPELBRING LECTURE

Dr. Shirley Wells

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No One Left Out: Reimagining Occupational Therapy Through the Lens of Inclusion​

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Keynote Abstract: 

Occupational therapy is grounded in the belief that participation in meaningful occupations is a fundamental human right. Who might be left out of the way we practice, teach, or design care? This thought-provoking lectureship invites the audience to reexamine inclusion as a foundational ethical principle of occupational therapy rather than a supplemental consideration, reimagine practice through an inclusive lens that moves beyond accommodation toward belonging, equity, and justice, and rethink traditional models of service delivery to embrace innovative approaches that ensure every person has the opportunity to engage in meaningful occupations. Occupational therapy practitioners serve individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, abilities, and life experiences. Providing inclusive care is essential to ensuring equitable access to services, promoting participation in meaningful occupations, and achieving positive outcomes.

By exploring emerging trends, lived experiences, and contemporary challenges, this presentation will examine how inclusion shapes occupational engagement, therapeutic relationships, educational experiences, and professional identity. Participants will consider how systems, environments, and practices can facilitate or hinder participation and belonging. This lectureship challenges occupational therapy practitioners, educators, and students to lead in creating accessible, equitable, and affirming spaces where all individuals can thrive. The future of occupational therapy depends on our commitment to ensuring that no one is left out - because in occupational therapy, no one should be left out.