Alyssa Smith, M.S., OTR/L, University of Wisconsin - Madison

Ph.D. Candidate

Alyssa Smith

BIO

Alyssa, an occupational therapist, is dedicated to developing programs for rural adolescents and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), as well as their caregivers. She aims to address the effects on mental health and wellness in these underserved areas. Prior to her current program, she gained clinical experience in both community outpatient and acute care settings, and worked in inpatient and outpatient mental health services. This experience highlighted the critical need to connect clinical practice and research to enhance the quality of life for individuals with IDD experiencing mental health challenges.

Bio

Alyssa, an occupational therapist, is dedicated to developing programs for rural adolescents and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), as well as their caregivers. She aims to address the effects on mental health and wellness in these underserved areas. Prior to her current program, she gained clinical experience in both community outpatient and acute care settings, and worked in inpatient and outpatient mental health services. This experience highlighted the critical need to connect clinical practice and research to enhance the quality of life for individuals with IDD experiencing mental health challenges.