From Research to Real-World Impact
Grounded in implementation science and community-engaged research, our work focuses on ensuring that effective interventions are accessible, adopted, and impactful in real-world settings. Our work focuses on bridging the gap between evidence and practice by developing, testing, and translating innovative approaches that improve access to meaningful participation in everyday life for individuals, families, and communities.
Our research centers on three interconnected areas: promoting mental health and participation for individuals with neurological disability, strengthening workforce development and well-being in rural and agricultural communities, and improving accessibility and inclusion within community programs and services.
We partner with clinicians, community organizations, health systems, and people with lived experience to ensure that effective interventions are not only developed but successfully implemented and sustained in real-world settings. Together, we are working to transform research into action and create meaningful, lasting impact in the lives of the people and communities we serve.
Lab Mission
To improve participation and accessibility by translating evidence into meaningful, sustainable change in occupational therapy practice and community settings.
Current Research
Occupational Therapy for Mental well-being and Engagement – OT for ME
Using community-engaged and implementation-focused approaches with Rehab Without Walls Neurorehabilitation, we are developing and evaluating strategies that promote the adoption of evidence-based mental health screening and interventions into home and community neurorehabilitation occupational therapy services.
Community Accessibility Resources for Extension Specialists – CARES
In partnership with Colorado State University Extension, this project advances accessibility and inclusion across Extension programs serving rural communities. The work focuses on identifying barriers to participation, developing practical training and resources for Extension professionals, and creating sustainable strategies that ensure programs are accessible to people with disabilities. This project reflects our commitment to community engagement and accessibility.
AgriProspects Workforce Development
This program supports workforce development and employment opportunities for young adults with disabilities in Colorado’s agricultural sector. Through collaboration with agricultural employers, workforce partners, and CSUnified, this project evaluates training outcomes and develops evidence-informed approaches to strengthen workforce participation, career pathways, and inclusion in agriculture.
Colorado AgrAbility Project
In partnership with the Colorado AgrAbility Project, this work focuses on developing and implementing evaluation frameworks to assess program effectiveness. The project supports efforts to help agricultural workers with disabilities maintain productive, safe, and meaningful participation in farming and ranching occupations.
