OUR STORY
We believe how well you respond & adapt to change impacts your independence & quality of life
ReInventing Independence was created from witnessing first hand the difficulties our clients were having managing and navigating change. Their response to change directly correlated with their ability to adapt and successfully carry out recommendations, strategies, and solutions for restoring a sense of control, well-being and competency. This led to the creation of the ReInventing Independence® Quality of Life (RI®-QOL) Model and Method.
We teach the RI®-QOL Model and Method to restore a sense of control, well-being and competency in the face of change in order for you to get back to engaging, experiencing and participating in what matters most.
Who we are
Melissa and Michelle, with a background in the science of occupational therapy and psychology, have a combined 47 years of therapeutic experience helping individuals of all ages in mastering the art of living and restoring quality of life.
They are also both Certified Aging in Place Specialists and have completed the Executive Certification in Home Modification from the University of Southern California Gerontology Program and understand the value of safe, accessible and functional home and community environments for all individuals to thrive throughout the life course. As Certified End-of-Life Doulas, they are skilled in providing non-medical, holistic support and comfort to the dying person and their loved ones through education and guidance, as well as emotional, spiritual or practical care throughout the lifespan.
Michelle McCarty, MA, SP, COTA, CAPS, ECHM, CEOLD Co-founder
Michelle McCarty, MA, SP, COTA, CAPS, ECHM, CEOLD Co-founder
Our Impact and Initiatives
Training and Education
We are proud to have inspired and empowered a variety of individuals, groups and populations over the years to understand and apply the RI®-QOL Model and Method. Occupational therapy practitioners and students have been taught to expand therapeutic interventions beyond functional performance and include quality of life through our podcast, TOTA and AOTA presentations and ongoing support and training at higher level educational institutions.
Mortal Compass®
In 2019, we launched our first ReInventing Independence® (RI) Initiative, the creation of Mortal Compass®, in response to the challenges individuals and their loved ones face when managing and navigating changes along the end of life journey. Mortal Compass® addresses end of life needs and wishes while preserving quality of life at the end of life.
Solace and Sage
In 2021, our second RI Initiative was launched, the creation of Solace and Sage, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in response to the personal, medical and environmental challenges adults 60 years and above experience when managing and navigating changes associated with aging in place. Solace and Sage is dedicated to providing the structure and support for aging in place with dignity and quality of life.
