How Can We Unlock the Potential for Self-Determination in Youth?
Presented by Nicole Quint and Amy Coopersmith

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Audio Runtime: 62 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 21 Minutes
Dr. Amy Coopersmith, an esteemed expert in self-determination, joins Pediatric Pioneers to explore how occupational therapy practitioners like you can empower youth to take the lead in their own development. Together with host Nicole Quint, we unpack the critical concept of learned helplessness as well as its impact, offering practical strategies to foster autonomy, motivation, and meaningful goal-setting in therapy and beyond. Tune in for actionable insights on translating self-determination research into practice and transforming therapy sessions into opportunities for true independence. You’ll walk away with tools to inspire children—and their support networks—to unlock their full potential.
Learning Objectives
- Critique the effectiveness of three evidence-based strategies for improving students’ motivation and engagement in school, as presented in the case study
- Design a plan incorporating three preventative strategies and accommodations to reduce learned helplessness and foster independence in learners’ chosen occupations
- Devise appropriate accommodations and modifications to address at least three implications of learned helplessness in order to promote student engagement in chosen occupations
Meet your instructors

Nicole Quint
Nicole Quint is a professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health Care Sciences at Nova Southeastern University. She serves as the program director for the postprofessional DrOT program and the dual-degree DrOT/PhD program. With more than 20 years of pediatric experience, Dr. Quint specializes in…

Amy Coopersmith
Dr. Amy Coopersmith is a self-determination advocate with over 30 years of experience as a pediatric occupational therapist and teacher. As a school-based therapist for 17 years in New York City, she worked as a clinician, evaluator, and supervisor, serving over 100 schools. Amy noticed that the child-led teaching methods…
Chapters & learning objectives
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How Can We Unlock the Potential for Self-Determination in Youth?
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