Darby Kyler
I grew up in Des Moines, IA, before studying at Creighton University in Omaha, NE. I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology in December 2015, graduating summa cum laude. I completed my doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis in December 2019. My areas of professional interest include neurological rehabilitation, functional cognition, and safe return to driving.
Goal #1:
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Provide the best care for clients by demonstrating a broad understanding of culture and focus on client goals and interests.
Goal #2:
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Foster trust and promote autonomy by using a therapeutic use of self and making connections with clients on an individual basis.
Professional Goals
Goal #3:
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Seek out diverse experiences and opportunities to gain a well-rounded worldview and prepare myself for the variety of situations that arise in clinical practice.
Professional Values
Diligent:
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I am highly self-motivated and pride myself on a strong work ethic. I am thorough and consider all aspects of a situation, which is important for occupational therapists to find effective solutions for clients. I take initiative with my work and ensure that the job is done carefully and well.
Compassionate:
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I am interested in the field of occupational therapy because of my interest in people. Empathy is one of my strong suits and I strive to gain understanding of what others experience. My compassionate outlook helps to build relationships with clients and make me a more effective occupational therapist.
Collaborative:
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From a young age, I was complemented on my listening skills and ability to focus on what others are communicating. Strong listening skills help me to understand what is important to clients and work towards meeting their goals together. A collaborative demeanor also allows me to work well with others.
Leadership Style
The leadership style that I relate to the most is Servant Leadership. This style has a strong emphasis on empathy and building relationships through connections with others. Servant Leadership focuses on the idea that leadership occurs when you take the interests of others above the interests of yourself. Leadership is not about pursuing your best interests or pursuing power.
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I connect to this leadership style because the moments where I find myself being a true leader are when I focus on meeting the needs of others, not myself. Servant Leadership is very relevant to occupational therapy; the ability to put clients’ needs before my own means that I am embodying the mission of occupational therapy. Occupational therapy’s goal is to help others to do what they need and want to do in their daily lives, and by focusing on that objective, I am both serving and leading.