Systems Thinking and Advocacy Across Levels
This topic introduces advocacy through a systems-thinking lens, emphasizing how occupational therapy practitioners engage with individuals, environments, and broader systems that influence participation and health. As you watch the video, consider how challenges in practice are often interconnected across personal, organizational, community, and policy levels, and how effective advocacy requires understanding these relationships.
The video provides an overview of how advocacy operates across levels, from supporting individual clients to influencing programs, organizations, and legislation. It highlights the role of occupational therapy practitioners in identifying patterns, recognizing systemic barriers, and taking action that aligns with both client needs and larger system-level change.
As you engage with this content, begin to think about where you naturally see advocacy opportunities in your own contexts and how a systems perspective can expand your impact beyond direct service delivery.
NVOTA Advocacy Toolkit
Dive into the NVOTA Advocacy Toolkit with a curious and practical lens. As you explore, identify one strategy that immediately stands out to you and one that feels unfamiliar or outside your comfort zone.
Now, imagine you are stepping into an advocacy role tomorrow. What is one small but meaningful action you could take using this toolkit in your current or future practice setting? Be specific about the context, the stakeholders involved, and what your first step would look like.
https://nota-advocacy.my.canva.site
AOTA 2026 State Legislative Forecast
*Note: This resource requires AOTA membership.
As you review the AOTA 2026 State Legislative Forecast, think like both a practitioner and a leader. Which policy priority catches your attention and why?
Now take it a step further. Imagine you are explaining this issue to a colleague, a client, or a legislator. How would you describe why it matters for occupational therapy and the populations you serve? What role could you realistically see yourself playing in shaping or responding to this issue?