Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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  Sleep Program for Individuals with Sleep Issues in a Counseling Center

  Adrian Flye and Rebecca King

  Sleep is essential for rest, restoration, and the ability to perform everyday occupations. Sleep provides numerous health benefits when an individual receives adequate sleep. Unfortunately, many individuals sleep poorly due to work demands, childcare responsibilities, and health-related issues. An inconsistency in sleep can negatively impact an individual’s physical and mental health and overall quality of life. The purpose of this project was to develop a sleep program that provides a counseling center with strategies to help improve sleep quality in individuals with sleep issues.

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  Integrating Sensory Processing and Self- Regulation Strategies in Daily Teaching Practices

  Alana D. Foster and Angela L. Blackwell

  This capstone project addressed the critical need for early childhood educators to improve their understanding and application of sensory processing and self-regulation strategies within the classroom setting. The project was implemented at an early learning center and aimed to enhance educators’ ability to support student participation and occupational performance through a structured coaching framework. Guided by Dunn’s Sensory Processing Framework and the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model, the intervention included five individualized coaching sessions and the development of two key capstone products: a sensory processing coaching framework and a sensory processing toolkit and activity binder. The coaching framework incorporated observational tools, quick reference guides, and reflection surveys, while the toolkit provided practical sensory materials and classroom-specific activities organized by sensory category. Outcomes from this project suggest that when educators receive targeted support and hands-on resources, they are more equipped and confident in embedding sensory strategies into their daily routines. Despite challenges related to time constraints, varying levels of teacher engagement, and competing curricular demands, the project demonstrated the value of occupational therapy collaboration in early education. This capstone highlights important implications for OT practice and future research, including the need to evaluate the effectiveness of coaching models and toolkits, address implementation barriers, and further explore interdisciplinary approaches to enhancing sensory-supportive learning environments.

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  Promoting Occupational Balance for High School Student-Athletes Transitioning to College

  Angilea Foster and Amy Lyons-Brown

  The purpose of this proposal is to outline my vision of my capstone project focused on the transition of high school athletes to their first year of collegiate sports while maintaining occupational balance. The average high school student who is beginning their transition into their first year of college can find this journey to be difficult and come with a lot of new responsibilities. There are changes within their current roles, routines, and habits that affect their ability to be successful within the first year of college, which can result in not returning to the college or university the second year (Van Rooij et al., 2017). First-year college athletes experience occupational imbalance during their transition from high school sports to college sports. This imbalance can result in collegiate athletes prioritizing their athletic participation rather than their responsibilities for their academics (Dos Santos et al., 2020).

  The second phase of the capstone project includes the creation of the occupational-based program. Within this 5-module program, students met during their scheduled times for their Individual Graduation Plans (IGP) that were conducted with their assigned counselor or with their scheduled meeting with other stakeholders, such as a college advisor. Module 1 included a fact sheet about occupational therapy (OT) to ensure that the participants understand OT's scope of practice and role within the high school population. Module 2 included resources on how to manage social and emotional stress. Module 3 included time management and scheduling skills and resources. Module 4 included college preparation resources and skills that were needed, and Module 5 included extracurricular activities and clubs that students can participate in to prepare for certain majors in college.

  The data was collected and gathered through a series of informal surveys and interviews of Chester High School (CHS) students, staff, and the surrounding community. The findings of the results show the need for and importance of occupational therapy to provide a more organized, structured, holistic approach for student-athletes during their transition from high school to college and achieving occupational balance and harmony during this transition. The results from the needs assessments were analyzed and assisted with creating the 5 modules for this program, which included a fact sheet about OT, resources to manage social and emotional stress, time management and scheduling skills, college preparation resources and tips, and lastly, extracurricular activities and clubs. This project emphasizes the focus on providing an occupational-based program to assist the transition of high school athletes to their first year of collegiate sports while maintaining occupational balance.

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  A Comprehensive Diabetes Symptom Management Program for Independent Living Facilities

  Brooke A. Foster and Mary Jan Greer

  This project aimed to support older adults with diabetes mellitus (DM) and pre-diabetes in independent living facilities through a comprehensive symptom management program. Implemented at Coastal Heights Senior Living in Costa Mesa, California, the program focused on improving overall education and self-management of DM symptoms, emphasizing foot care, physical activity, and nutrition. Using a client-centered approach and the Person-Occupation-Environment-Performance model, participants engaged in group and individual sessions over an eight-week period. Outcomes showed an increased understanding of DM, improved self-care behaviors, and enhanced ability to manage symptoms independently, supporting aging in place and promoting overall wellness.

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  An Occupational Therapy Based Guidebook for Young Adults Transitioning into Adulthood with Sickle Cell and Renal Medullary Carcinoma

  Alexcia Frelix and Cassandra Nelson

  This poster displays the key points within my capstone project of creating an occupational therapy-based guidebook for young adults with sickle cell anemia, and renal medullary carcinoma.

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  A Wellness and Social Engagement Program for Post-Lower Limb Amputees

  Graciela Gonzalez and Cassandra Nelson

  A wellness and social engagement program was developed and implemented to provide education relating to the mental health impacts, decrease in health management, and lack of social participation after a lower-limb amputation amongst adults, 18 years or older. The program provided a manual with educational information, external resources, and visual aids to enhance independence in activities of daily living (ADLs).

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  Exploring the Benefits of Nature-Based Occupations and Transition into Retirement

  Kelly Gorton and Amy Lyons-Brown

  This poster outlines a doctoral capstone project that explores how nature-based occupations can support older adults transitioning into retirement, addressing their unique needs and improving their overall quality of life. The transition into retirement can be a challenging time, often accompanied by anxiety, loss of routine, and social isolation. Nature-based occupations offer significant benefits, such as improved mood, reduced stress, a sense of purpose, and increased social engagement. This poster emphasizes the importance of understanding older adults' attitudes and behaviors toward nature-based occupations to maximize their benefits. It also examines how occupational therapists can integrate nature-based interventions to help older adults transition from work to retirement. By addressing the gap in research on nature-based occupations for older adults during this pivotal transition, the findings contribute valuable insights that can enhance occupational therapy practices and provide effective, evidence-based support for this population.

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  PODEROSAS: A Program to Meet the Occupational Needs of Latina Women

  Alana Govea, Mary Jan Greer, and Cassandra Nelson

  Many women who have immigrated from Mexico and other Latin American countries and who have experienced some form of sexual trauma, sexual violence, sexual abuse, or sex trafficking have unmet occupational needs as they adjust to their lives in the United States. Limited research and resources are available to address these needs. A culturally sensitive program was curated to identify and meet the occupational needs of these women. Three themes that encompassed their primary occupational needs included the need for social participation and connection, the need for emotional and mental health promotion and maintenance, and the need for security and stability. By the end of the 7-week program, these needs were met successfully. Further research, program development, and advocacy are required to refine the individual care occupational therapists can provide to women from this population.

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  Effectiveness of A Mindfulness Program on Traumatic Upper Extremity Injuries

  Chloe M. Greer, Zeida Gutierrez, and Julie Ward

  The general overview of this research study is to develop and assess the effectiveness of a mindfulness program for supporting the psychosocial symptoms that are associated with post traumatic UE injuries. Mindfulness as an intervention will be used to support possible negative psychosocial implications the patient is experiencing post traumatic injury.

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  Educational Development Program for Caregivers of Acquired Brain Injury

  Kaylan Griffin and Rebecca King

  Acquired brain injury (ABI) disrupts normal brain function and often requires caregivers to assist with daily tasks. One-third of ABI caregivers experience burnout and psychological distress within a year of the injury, primarily due to decreased confidence, education, and social support. This burnout can significantly affect caregivers' emotional, social, financial, physical, and spiritual well-being. The purpose of the proposed capstone is to aid in preventing caregiver burnout and burden by empowering caregivers through education.

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  Employee Wellness in Acute Mental Health Settings – An Occupational Therapy Perspective

  Ethan Gross and Susan MacDermott

  This poster outlines a doctoral capstone project focused on addressing the holistic factors influencing patient recovery and well-being in acute mental health settings. A comprehensive needs assessment was conducted to identify knowledge gaps, sources of staff stress, and environmental barriers impacting occupational performance. Findings informed the development of a staff-focused program aimed at mitigating stressors and enhancing therapeutic engagement. In addition, a report will be created with evidence-based recommendations for physical environment modifications to support both patient and employee well-being and occupational participation

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  The Impact of a SEL-Based School Transition Readiness Program for Fifth Grade Students

  Abigail V. Hall, Cynthia Haynes, and Trish Chialastri

  This poster presents a study that developed and evaluated a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) based educational program designed to support fifth-grade students transitioning to middle school. This program targeted five key SEL skills: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social-Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making. The study aimed to improve students' occupational performance and self-perceived skill sets while also expanding knowledge on the role of OT with a psychosocial emphasis. The research addresses the gap in knowledge regarding SEL-based interventions for supporting students during critical educational transitions.

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  Exploring the Lived Experience of Growing up with a Neurodivergent Sibling

  Madison Hall and Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

  Neurotypical siblings of neurodivergent children often experience unique roles, responsibilities, and emotional challenges within their family systems, yet their needs are frequently overlooked in service delivery models. This mixed methods study explored the lived experiences of individuals who grew up with neurodivergent siblings, focusing on the occupations, routines, and play experiences that shaped their development. Four themes emerged through thematic analysis of survey responses and semi-structured interviews: (1) play as a reconstructed experience, (2) role imbalance in daily life, (3) environmental influences on occupational engagement, and (4) navigating emotional demands. Findings highlight the need for occupational therapists to include neurotypical siblings in family-centered care by addressing their emotional and occupational needs. Future directions include developing structured support programs and sibling-inclusive interventions to promote well-being, role balance, and engagement within the family system.

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  Lived Experience of Caregivers of Individuals Labeled with Schizophrenia

  Nicolette C. Hamilton and Susan MacDermott

  The purpose of the capstone project was to explore the experience of caregivers of an individual labeled with schizophrenia and create educational materials beneficial to caregivers at partnering site. Caregivers of individuals labeled with schizophrenia can face mental health concerns, such as anxiety, stress, or depression, which may or may not be due to the demands of being a caregiver. The occupational impact of these mental health concerns is noted in literature, but the potential for occupational therapy to address these occupational concerns has not been identified for this caregiver population specifically. The purpose of the project was to learn more about caregiver’s experience from providing care for an individual labeled with schizophrenia through an occuapational lense secondary to the mental health concerns caregivers face. The project aimed to understand if caregiver’s occupations are impacted and in what way while engaging in caregiver responsibilities. The capstone project consisted of several components mainly achieved through an in-depth learning experience with the population of caregivers in the mental health setting. A detailed literature review, completed needs assessment, and educational resources were all completed as a result of the learning experience provided through various platforms. The student gained proficient knowledge in the topic chosen along with a better understanding of how occupational therapy supports caregivers in the mental health system.

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  Family-Centered Care in Pediatric Oncology

  Olivia B. Hope and Jazminne Orozco Arteaga OTD, OTR/L

  Pediatric cancer is a medical condition defined by the development of cancerous cells in children and adolescents. Play is a child’s job; it creates a sense of belonging, fills their internal desire to participate in various environments, and allows them to develop sensory, motor, and cognitive skills. The PEOP model further structured this study by providing a comprehensive framework that considers the interactions between the child, their environment, and their occupational participation. This research project used a qualitative, exploratory design to understand how play-based interventions may enhance FCC in the pediatric oncology setting. Thematic analysis was utilized to create five themes, each containing two corresponding subthemes to explore the role of play-based OT in pediatric oncology. Play served as a means for emotional regulation and resilience. An essential aspect for uplifting caregivers and strengthening their confidence in engaging with their child's play was caregiver education. Engaging in play was discovered to be a channel for self-expression while additionally serving as a tool for children to process their medical experience and cancer journey. Several limitations in this study will be mentioned; the sample size of seven participants was relatively small, which may affect the diversity of experiences among caregivers and OTPs. This study emphasizes the significance of FCC within play-based OT in supporting children and their caregivers during their pediatric oncology journey.

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  Early Intervention Pediatric Adaptive Sports Program

  Emily Horsley and Cassandra M. Nelson

  This doctoral capstone focused on developing a community-based program to improve access to pediatric adaptive sports for children with physical disabilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area. A needs assessment of families, occupational therapists, and recreational therapists revealed significant gaps in awareness and accessibility of entry-level adaptive sports programs. In response, a multi-component program was developed, including a centralized resource website (DFWAdaptiveSports.com), an educational outreach initiative for families and providers, and a six-week introductory adaptive sports curriculum. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model, the program aims to increase participation, promote social and motor development, and reduce barriers to community-based recreation for this underserved population.

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  An OT Program for Amputation Individuals and Their Caregiver

  Ashley Hradecky and Cassandra Nelson

  Amputation individuals and their caregivers currently lack sufficient education regarding residual limb management, limb positioning, mental health, and phantom limb pain. These gaps in health management skills ultimately result in relationship strains, technology abandonment, and decreased independence. The goal was to develop and implement an educational program for new amputation individuals and their caregivers targeting these topics. Six pairs successfully completed this four-week program, with each pair responding to pre and post surveys. Interventions included lower extremity positioning, prosthetic care management, residual limb management, mirror therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and tactile point discrimination. When comparing the pre and post survey scores, there was an average score increase for both amputation individuals and caregivers, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness. The program emphasizes the need for a universal program to help guide this targeted population through the amputation journey.

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  Adolescents Undergoing Back Surgery & Caregiver Support Needed Before & After Surgery

  Kayla R. Jaacks, Mary Jan Greer, and Lee Ann Hoffman

  Adolescents with spinal conditions such as scoliosis, kyphosis, or fractures may require surgical intervention, with spinal fusion being the most common procedure. While these surgeries can significantly improve outcomes, parents and caregivers often feel unprepared for the responsibilities and emotional demands that follow. This lack of knowledge and support can lead to caregiver stress, feelings of isolation, and unmet self-care needs, highlighting the urgent need for better education and resources.

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  Increased Caregiver Involvement in Pediatric Home Health

  Madeline L. Keheley and Cassandra Nelson

  This pediatric home health capstone project aims to enhance caregiver implementation of home exercise programs for children. By providing tailored training, resources, and support, the project seeks to improve caregivers' confidence and competence in guiding children through prescribed exercises. Through structured education, clear communication strategies, and ongoing feedback, the initiative strives to promote better adherence to the exercise regimen, ultimately improving the child's health outcomes and quality of life.

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  Enhancing Psychosocial Well-being for Pediatric Oncology Clients: A Guidebook for Occupational Therapists

  Marzia Khan, Lesley Khan-Farooqi, and Brooke Weber

  This capstone project addressed the critical gap in psychosocial support for pediatric oncology clients by developing an evidence-based guidebook for occupational therapy (OT) practitioners. Grounded in the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), the guidebook provides therapists with developmentally appropriate strategies to enhance emotional regulation, social participation, and engagement in meaningful activities for children aged 3 to 12 undergoing cancer treatment. The project identified key psychosocial challenges through qualitative interviews, needs assessments, and real-time clinical feedback and designed targeted interventions aligned with OT principles. The digital guidebook provides accessible, structured resources to support holistic, client-centered care and improve the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients.

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  Combating the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Self-Esteem and Emotion Regulation: An Art-Based Intervention Program

  Kaileigh Kirk and Cynthia Haynes

  This poster presents an art-based intervention program developed and designed to positively impact self-esteem and emotion regulation in children with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) through evidence-based intervention activities and group discussions. This program was created with the hopes of expanding occupational therapy's knowledge and utilization of potential interventions for children with ACEs.

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  Reminiscence-Based Occupational Therapy: A Concept Analysis

  Paige E. Laurent and Steven M. Gerardi

  Dementia impacts cognitive function, emotional well-being, and occupational engagement, leading to diminished quality of life for older adults. Reminiscence therapy (RT) has been established as a viable approach to enhancing mood, cognitive performance, and social participation among individuals with dementia, however, its integration within occupational therapy (OT) practice remains under defined. The lack of the clear, defined role of OT in RBOT poses challenges for OT practitioners aiming to integrate reminiscence intervention within their scope of practice. The lack of a clearly defined role of OT in RBOT poses challenges for OT practitioners aiming to incorporate reminiscence interventions within their scope of practice. Problem: OT practitioners lack an understanding of the concept of RBOT for individuals with dementia, making it challenging to integrate reminiscence as a therapeutic intervention within clinical practice effectively. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to conduct a concept analysis aimed at defining and clarifying the concept of RBOT for individuals with dementia. By clarifying this concept, OT practitioners will be better equipped to integrate RBOT into their practice. Results: This concept analysis facilitated the identification of key defining attributes related to the role of OT in RBOT. These attributes include a) an emphasis on occupation, b) the reinforcement of narrative identity, c) a client-centered approach, and d) a structured therapeutic framework. This concept analysis contributes to the growing body of OT literature by providing a structured framework for integrating reminiscence as a therapeutic medium, thereby support OT practitioners in addressing the psychosocial needs of clients through evidence-based, occupation-focused interventions.

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  Program for Caregivers Caring for Children with Juvenile Arthritis

  Elizabeth M. Lette-Fortune, Mary Jan Greer, and Lee Ann Hoffman

  This capstone program aims to educate and support children with juvenile rheumatic diseases (JRDs) and their caregivers, addressing the lack of educational resources available for families. The program conducted a needs assessment, developed targeted educational content, and covered topics such as flare management, treatment options, and caregiver support. The initiative was evaluated for its effectiveness in improving caregiver knowledge, reducing stress, and enhancing the quality of life for children with JRDs.

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  Occupational Impact of Losing a Parent at a Young Age

  Hailee Litchfield and Susan MacDermott

  This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of children who faced the death of a parent before the age of 18. With an emphasis on the specific occupational impact that resulted directly after the loss and then further into adulthood, 5 themes arose from the participants' responses. Unexpected roles changes, fear of loss, lack of support, loss of meaning, and family traditions lead to the identification of varying occupations, environmental factors and performance patterns that were impacted in some way. The results of this study highlight the need for more equipped, accessible and age appropriate bereavement services, as well as the understanding of how OT can be utilized to promote occupational performance and satisfaction when experiencing grief reactions.

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  Sound Asleep: A Manual for Occupational Therapy Practitioners (OTP) Addressing Sleep-Related Challenges in Young Children

  Lorie-Ann Love; Ellen M. Pope OTD, OTR/L; and Angela L. Blackwell PhD, OTR

  This capstone project sought to address the limited competence and confidence of occupational therapy practitioners (OTP) in providing services for children and families facing sleep-related challenges. The objective was to enhance OTP knowledge and skills in delivering specialized sleep interventions through the development of an educational resource. The project was implemented across two settings: telehealth and an outpatient pediatric service, integrating both virtual and outdoor environments for occupational therapy (OT). Participants include OTP, OT students, and families of young children (ages 0-5) experiencing sleep disturbances.

  The project followed a structured four-phase approach: strengths and needs assessment, development of an educational manual, evaluation and revision, and dissemination. The initial phase involved observational analysis of OT sleep interventions and the identification of gaps in OTP knowledge. The development phase culminated in the creation of a manual that outlines the OTP role in sleep interventions, including coaching strategies and therapeutic approaches. In the evaluation phase, feedback from an OTP and OT students guided revisions to the manual. The final phase involved the dissemination of the refined manual to stakeholders.

  This initiative aimed to enhance OTP ability to address sleep challenges in pediatric populations, promote interprofessional collaboration, and actively involve caregivers in the intervention process. It underscores the need for further research into a standardized sleep assessment tool and the impact of OT sleep interventions on developmental outcomes. Ultimately, this project aspires to improve OT practice, child sleep outcomes, and family well-being through evidence-based, client-centered strategies.