Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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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.

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  Simulated Adventures: Occupational Therapy's Role in Outdoor Participation

  Erica Martinez and Rebecca King

  Access to outdoor leisure activities remains limited for individuals with disabilities due to barriers such as transportation challenges, functional limitations, and social/psychological constraints. These limitations significantly reduce opportunities for participation in outdoor recreation, which has been proven to enhance the overall quality of life. This capstone program aims to address these challenges by supporting the special abilities community in developing transferable skills necessary for meaningful engagement in outdoor activities. The program emphasizes emotional regulation, social participation, health promotion, and safety education while enhancing the quality of life. Through this program, participants develop essential skills for engaging in outdoor activities by utilizing adaptive strategies and modifications, focusing on cognitive safety awareness and the ability to carry out functional tasks effectively. As a result, this program seeks to increase occupational performance and independence in outdoor recreation through targeted skill development and inclusive support.

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  The Impact of Social Participation Through Adaptive Sports on Quality of Life in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

  Mikayla Martin and Zeida Gutierrez

  This project researched and explored how socialization through adaptive sports in this case impacts the perception of quality of life among individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury.

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  Exploring the Impact of OT on Pain Management & Quality of Life in Individuals Following Lower Limb Amputation

  Fernanda D. Massey and Lakeisa Boykin

  This capstone project explores the role of occupational therapy (OT) in managing pain and enhancing quality of life (QoL) for individuals following lower limb amputation (LLA). Despite OT's recognized potential in addressing physical and psychosocial challenges, there is a lack of research specifically examining its impact on pain management outcomes post-amputation. This mixed-methods study involved quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with 11 participants to assess their experiences with OT services, pain strategies, and QoL. Results highlighted both the benefits and limitations of current OT interventions, emphasizing the need for personalized, client-centered approaches. Themes such as the search for non-pharmacological strategies, adaptive resilience, and the desire for greater OT involvement in pain management underscore the profession’s evolving role in post-LLA rehabilitation.

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  Daily Routine Redesign To Optimize Occupational Performance For Individuals with Cancer During and Post-Treatment

  Summer M. Mazade and Cassandra Nelson

  Cancer and cancer treatment impacts individual's ability to participate in daily activities due to the symptoms or side effects that they experience. With advancements in cancer screenings and treatments, there is a growing population of those living with long term side effects that lower their quality of life. A program was developed to redesign cancer survivors' daily routine based on their symptoms and priorities to increase occupational performance in activities of daily living. The program showed a positive impact on the lives of cancer survivors' daily lives.

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  Supporting Occupational Identity in Senior Collegiate Athletes

  Kara Montilla and Amy Lyons-Brown

  Capstone project designed to support the transition of retired collegiate athletes by promoting occupational identity and mental well-being. Built upon occupational therapy theories, the program addresses key challenges such as loss of routine, social reintegration, and identity development post-sport. It incorporates goal setting, time management strategies, and group discussions to foster self-exploration and resilience. The project aims to build a supportive environment that empowers athletes to thrive beyond their athletic careers.

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  An App-Based Education Course Empowering Coaches to Support Neurodivergent Athletes

  Caroline Morton and Karen Park

  Neurodivergent children face significant barriers to participation in youth sports due to a lack of coach education and inclusive practices, which limits access to the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional benefits of recreational activities. This doctoral capstone project aimed to address these barriers through the development and implementation of CoachAbility, an app-based educational course designed to equip youth sports coaches with neurodiversity-affirming approaches. The course includes interactive modules, scenario-based quizzes, and downloadable resources covering key areas such as sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation, inclusion, family collaboration, and motor skill development. Participating coaches at KidStrong Carlsbad completed the course over four weeks. Pre-course needs assessments and post-course surveys, alongside class observations, were used to evaluate program outcomes. This project highlights the value of occupational therapy-led training for community-based recreational leaders and aims to promote inclusive coaching practices that enhance access and participation for all athletes.

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  Educating OTs on the Benefits of Virtual Reality with Post-Stroke Rehab

  John Nacion and Zeida Gutierrez

  This capstone project focused on educating occupational therapists (OTs) about the benefits and applications of virtual reality (VR) in post-stroke rehabilitation. The primary goal was to increase therapists’ knowledge, confidence, and willingness to integrate VR into clinical practice. The project included the development of educational resources such as informational handouts, guidebook, and pre-and post-surveys to assess changes in therapists’ attitudes and understanding of VR. By bridging knowledge gaps, the project aimed to enhance patient engagement and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

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  Interprofessional Education Program for Parkinson's Disease Care Considerations

  Jennifer Nunez and Cassandra Nelson

  Research suggests that having interprofessional education for disease-specific care can improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. This program focused on providing a basic IPE program to rural hospital staff of various disciplines on the care considerations for individuals with Parkinson's Disease when they are hospitalized. Using an occupational therapy vantage point, the program was created to address increasing occupational performance for healthcare workers and individuals with Parkinson's Disease. Topics included in the program were motor symptoms, non-motor symptoms, medication management, mobility and ADLs, cognition, mental health, sleep, dietary patterns, dysphagia, and voice.

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  Social Program for Adults Living in Group Homes

  Kailee Oram and Mary Jan Greer

  Adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) living in group homes have lower quality of life outcomes, particularly for the domain of social inclusion, compared to adults with IDDs who live alone or with family. This capstone experience aimed to develop, implement, and evaluate a social program for this population to promote community engagement and interpersonal relationships. The 8-week social program was planned for participants living in group homes led by Trinity Services in suburban IL. A needs assessment included interviews with clients and staff about supports and barriers to social participation and ideas for community activities. The program was developed for 29 participants from 2 group homes and 2 intermediate care facilities. Participants received social skills training in which they learned either social media or basic sign language, depending on individual needs. Most sessions encouraged group activities such as board games, arts and crafts, or physical activities like playing with balls. Participants also enjoyed community outings, but several were canceled due to health precautions. Post-program interviews revealed that 27 clients were satisfied with their social participation after the program, compared to 14 who reported social satisfaction before the program. Promoting social participation in group homes is an emerging practice area for occupational therapy.

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  Air Travel Experiences of Families with Autistic Children

  Tiffany Pham and Karen Park

  This mixed-methods research design aimed to understand families' experiences traveling by plane with autistic children to identify supports, needs, challenges, and barriers that influence participation and well-being. Although air travel offers significant benefits for families and their children, including promoting personal growth, strengthening communication and bonding, reducing stress, and improving the overall quality of life and life satisfaction across many domains, families with autistic children face significant challenges due to sensory and environmental barriers that make the experience stressful and unpredictable. Findings highlight a need for autism-informed policies, training among airport and airline staff, sensory-friendly spaces, and extended support to improve the air travel experience and promote equitable and inclusive access for neurodiverse families.

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  Aquatic Therapy in Neurorehabilitation

  Alexis Poe, Rebecca King, and Caitlin Boyd

  Healthcare workers and their patients have seen the benefits of aquatic therapy (AT), but education is lacking (Marinho-Buzelli, 2023). Research suggests that AT can improve fatigue and balance for people with an acquired brain injury (Bhatnagar et al., 2019). These findings highlight the need to enhance occupational therapy (OT) education and implementation of AT in clinical practice.

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  A Specialized Training Toolkit to Increase Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in After School Programs

  Merilyn N. Powdrill, Abby Vander Laan, and Angela Blackwell

  The Inclusive Pathways Toolkit was developed and implemented in after-school programs to enhance staff competencies in supporting children with disabilities. This initiative aimed to create a more inclusive environment by providing staff with practical strategies and resources, thereby improving the overall experience and participation of children with disabilities in after-school activities.

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  Bridging the Gap Between Early Childhood Educators and Occupational Therapists Through the Development of an Occupational Therapy Toolkit

  Jessica Quick, Cynthia Haynes, and Madison Bieg

  A Early Childhood Education and Occupational Therapy Toolkit created to help bridge the gap between the professions based on clinical observation and a needs assessment.

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  Building Bridges: A Community Health Worker Training Course

  Taylor A. Ramsey; Lesley Khan-Farooqi, PhD, OTD, OTR; and Dr. Sharita Ambrose, DHEd., MPH, CHES, CHWI

  Building Bridges: A Community Health Worker Training Course is a comprehensive 20-hour continuing education course designed for community health workers (CHWS) who work with Black pregnant women. This training course was developed for and in collaboration with Allure Alliance Incorporated, a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of Black women through community programming, education, and advocacy. This training course reflects an interprofessional collaborative approach to addressing the racial disparities in the Black maternal health population in the U.S. The course includes evidence-based strategies and health management interventions derived from the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, 4th Edition (OTPF-4), to support Black pregnant women that CHWs can use. By focusing on holistic, population needs, and culturally responsive practices, this course aims to strengthen the skill set of CHWS in the Austin, TX area. Ultimately, Building Bridges will contribute to decreasing the Black maternal mortality rate, empower CHWs, and expand OT practice into maternal health.

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  Opening the Outdoors: Experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Adults in Outdoor Occupations to Support Mental Health

  Jasmine Reynoso and Amy Lyons-Brown

  This mixed methods study explores the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) adults in exploring and engaging in outdoor occupations to support mental health. Through 15 survey responses and 2 semi-structured interviews, data was collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and reflective thematic analysis. The findings revealed three overarching themes: Barriers to Outdoor Occupations, Facilitators to Encourage Participation, and Personally Experienced Benefits. Participants explained how outdoor activities contribute to improved mental health, emotional regulation, and a sense of holistic well-being. By addressing the gap in research on nature-based occupations within BIPOC communities, this study highlights the need for occupational therapists to develop culturally responsive, community-based interventions that promote accessibility, inclusion, and mental health support through nature. The study also emphasizes the need for advocacy, representation, and program development to expand access to meaningful outdoor engagement for underserved populations.

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  Live Music Events: The Lived Experiences for People with Disabilities

  Miya Y. Rodriguez and Susan MacDermott

  Live music events present barriers to people with disabilities, limiting participation and full engagement at these events. This capstone project aimed to understand the lived experience of people with disabilities at live music events. A mixed methods research study and optional interview to gather data were used. Through thematic analysis, three themes were presented: physical barriers, more than just music, and the lack of education on invisible disabilities. These outcomes from the research express additional accommodations centered around physical barriers, an understanding that there are more occupations at these events besides just the music, and a need for more inclusion amongst the community of people with disabilities.

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  The Role of Occupational Therapy in Bladder and Bowel Management for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injuries: An Educational Video Series

  Julia Ryan, Steven Gerardi, and Heather Rennerfeldt

  Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners are uniquely positioned to support individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in developing effective bowel and bladder management (BBM) routines. However, most existing literature approaches BBM from a medical perspective, offering limited guidance on how to translate occupation-based strategies into OT practice. This lack of discipline-specific resources contributes to reduced confidence among generalist practitioners and hinders the consistent implementation of BBM interventions across inpatient and community settings. To address this gap, a nine-part educational video series was developed to enhance OT practitioners’ knowledge, clinical reasoning, and confidence in delivering BBM interventions for clients with SCI. The series covers foundational neurophysiology of the bowel and bladder systems, outlines OT’s distinct role in BBM, and emphasizes promoting independence and participation in toileting-related activities. Developed through literature review, clinical fieldwork observations, and collaboration with a medical supplier, the series incorporates SCI functional groupings based on hand function to guide expectations for independence and intervention planning. It also reframes the evaluation process by introducing non-standardized assessment questions that can be easily integrated into routine practice, followed by guidance on intervention planning. Recommendations for adaptive equipment and catheter types are tailored to client-specific factors and barriers. The series highlights various catheter options and introduces practical tools to support real-world carryover. Its modular, stand-alone format allows for flexible, on-demand learning. By positioning OT as a key contributor in SCI care, this project strengthens the profession’s role in BBM routines and addresses a critical gap in occupation-based literature.

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  Influence of Collectivist Cultural Values on Occupational Roles and Mental Health of First-Generation College Students

  Guenne Sarmiento and Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

  First-generation college students (FGCS) from collectivist backgrounds often encounter unique challenges as they navigate academic duties alongside familial responsibilities. These challenges are influenced by collectivist cultural values (CCV), which prioritize family ties, community cohesion, and collective well-being. This capstone project utilizes the Kawa Model to illustrate the supportive and unsupportive factors in the lives of these students, examining how cultural expectations, occupational roles, and mental health intersect. It emphasizes the critical role of occupational therapy in unraveling and addressing these complexities.

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  Occupational Therapists' Perceived Benefits of Tactile-Based Interventions for Current and Former NICU Infants

  Rebecca Schmidt, Cynthia Haynes, and Amanda Forsman

  Therapeutic touch, including infant massage, is a key intervention occupational therapists (OTs) use to support premature infants' physiological and psychological development. This capstone project explores how OTs incorporate therapeutic touch into their interventions for infants currently or recently discharged from the NICU and how they perceive its effectiveness. Through surveys of 20 participants, including NICU and outpatient OTs and caregivers, the study found that OTs strongly recognize the benefits of therapeutic touch, citing improved infant well-being and emotional regulation. However, results also revealed inconsistencies in caregiver education, engagement, and access to resources, which may limit the consistent application of these techniques. Despite a small sample size and reliance on self-reported data, the study highlights the importance of standardized education and clinical support for therapists and caregivers. An educational booklet was developed to address these gaps and promote more effective integration of therapeutic touch into neonatal care practices.

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  A Program to Empower Neurodivergent Individuals and Their Caregivers to Advocate for Individualized Sensory Needs and Prepare for Medical Appointments

  Eden Singh, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga, and Valerie Schlieder

  Neurodivergent individuals frequently experience sensory processing challenges that can limit participation in healthcare. This project aimed to develop a program that equips neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers with the tools to understand sensory processing, advocate for individualized needs, and effectively prepare for medical appointments. Guided by occupational therapy theory and frameworks, the program includes caregiver education, interactive activities, and accessible resources focused on sensory regulation and advocacy. This project emphasizes the role of occupational therapy in promoting equitable and person-centered healthcare experiences.

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  Safe Lift System: In-Bed Repositioning Assistive Device

  Mariah Sparkman, Cassandra Nelson, and Lee Ann Hoffman

  Bedridden patients require frequent repositioning toward the head of the bed. The current Safe Lift System prototype was revised and surveyed to address the gap in effective methods for in-bed repositioning of this patient population and to improve its efficacy in meeting the needs of bedridden patients, caregivers, and healthcare staff members.

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  The Role of Occupational Therapy in the Care of Informal Caregivers of People With Dementia: A Concept Analysis

  Ashley M. Taylor, Steven M. Gerardi, and Elizabeth DeLuca-Berg

  Informal caregivers (care partners) are people, such as family members, who provide care to those who cannot care for themselves, including people with dementia (PwD). Care partners assist PwD in their daily occupations, often without training. Caring for PwD can lead to emotional, physical, financial, and occupational challenges for care partners. Occupational therapy (OT) has a role to play in the care of PwD. However, if clinicians do not operate from a dyadic model, care partners’ needs may be overlooked. Problem: Although addressing the care partner dyad is important to the delivery of OT, the role of OT in the care of informal caregivers of PwD is not well articulated in the OT literature, which makes it difficult for OT practitioners to provide optimal care. Clarifying this concept can improve the delivery of OT services for the care partner-PWD dyad. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to conduct a concept analysis on the role of OT in the care of informal caregivers of PwD. Results: The role of OT with informal caregivers of PwD is to identify barriers to participation and challenges to effective occupational performance with the care partner-PWD dyad, and to implement interventions to enable participation and enhance performance. They key attributes of this role are a) viewing the care partner-PWD dyad as the “client”, b) taking a dyadic approach to the OT process, c) providing caregiver education and training, d) addressing home safety and environmental modification, e) long term planning, and f) interdisciplinary care coordination.

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  Advocacy for On-Campus Occupational Therapy in College Athletics

  Doyle C. Taylor and Keisa Boykin

  This project focuses on a growing issue in college sports: the lack of accessible, specialized rehabilitation for student-athletes. Many universities rely on off-campus providers for occupational therapy, which often leads to delays in treatment, missed appointments, and inconsistent care. To address this gap, the project advocates for the integration of occupational therapists directly into athletic departments. By developing and delivering educational workshops, distributing advocacy materials, and engaging with key stakeholders, the project highlights how on-campus OT services can streamline care, improve recovery outcomes, and support both the physical and mental well-being of student-athletes. The goal is to bring awareness to OT’s unique value in sports medicine and push for its inclusion as a standard part of collegiate athlete healthcare.

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  Occupational Therapists’ Role in Incorporating Music Therapy Interventions for Preschoolers With Sensory Processing Disorder

  Jeneel Taylor and Cynthia Haynes

  The improvement of function in preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with the use of music interventions. Advocating for individuals who are on the spectrum and identify as autistic or neurodivergent is important, as autism spectrum disorder presents differently in each person. Music can be utilized in occupational therapy treatment plans to assist clients with sensory processing disorders. In occupational therapy, sound interventions are just one of the many creative interventions that can assist in keeping each session interesting while keeping each child engaged and displaying sensory challenges.