Osher Affiliate Alyssa Smith, PhD, OT, NBC-HWC, successfully defended her doctoral dissertation on Monday, July 21, in front of an enthusiastic audience of colleagues, mentors, and supporters.

Titled “Health and Wellness Coaching for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Model for Improving Inclusion and Accessibility in the Integrative Health Care Context,” Smith's dissertation marks a significant contribution to the field of integrative health, in line with the Osher Center's mission.

Smith is the first student to graduate from University of Vermont (UVM) with a PhD in Interprofessional Health Sciences with a Concentration in Integrative Health. Her work, which bridges occupational therapy, health equity, and wellness coaching, offers a pioneering model for promoting inclusion and accessibility in health care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Smith Westervelt Whitman
(L to R)Smith, Westervelt, and Susan Whitman, PA-C, NBC-HWC

Dr. Karen Westervelt is UVM’s Osher Center for Integrative Health Education Director and Smith’s co-advisor, alongside University of Arizona Provost Dr. Patty Prelock, formerly of UVM. Westervelt  praised Smith’s dedication and innovation: 

“We are so proud of Alyssa’s hard work and determination. She has created a novel and much-needed body of research regarding health promotion through Integrative Health and Wellness Coaching for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their care partners. Her program development and research are model examples of the power of interprofessional work and research.”

--Dr. Karen Westervelt

Smith with colleagues

Smith’s research not only reflects her deep commitment to health equity but also showcases the strength of interdisciplinary collaboration. Her work is expected to influence future practices in integrative health and wellness coaching, particularly for underserved populations.

This fall, Smith will begin her postdoctoral training at the University of Arizona under Prelock’s mentorship. The UVM community is thrilled to continue to connect with Smith, as she grows as a leader and innovator in the field and positively impact the lives of countless people.