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Advocacy, Outreach, And Expansion Of The Michigan Occupational Therapy Association Mental Health Special Interest Section, Isabel Evola

Capstone Projects

The history of occupational therapy (OT) is rooted in supporting mental health, emerging in the United States during World War I. Over time, the practice of OT has evolved in its scope and emerging specialties. The role of OT in mental health is underutilized and misunderstood by professional organizations. However, OT remains a vital service in supporting mental health in psychiatric and non-psychiatric settings. The focus of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to address this gap by advocating for the presence and understanding of OT in mental health through the expansion of the Michigan Occupational Therapy Association (MiOTA) Mental …

Strengthening Leadership And Expanding Engagement: Enhancing Volunteer, Participant, And Donor Involvement In Michigan Victory Games, Abbey Smith

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) addressed organizational development and community engagement within the Michigan Disability Sports Alliance (MiDSA), an adaptive sports nonprofit serving individuals with physical disabilities. The project is relevant to occupational therapy (OT) through its focus on promoting participation, health, and inclusion in meaningful occupations such as sport. A key gap identified was the lack of structured resources to support leadership, inconsistent outreach methods, and limited strategies to reduce barriers for participants, volunteers, and donors.

The objectives of this DCE included developing a centralized data management portal, creating a standardized community outreach presentation, establishing clear board role frameworks, …

Analyzing Social Media Content Strategies That Drive Engagement For Independent Hairstylists, Aurora Batts

Honors Theses

This study explores how social media, has changed the way independent hairstylists market themselves and connect with clients. Social media has become a huge tool in the beauty industry, allowing stylists to showcase their work, build their brand, and attract new clients. Because platforms like Instagram act as a digital portfolio, clients are making decisions based on what they see online rather than just location or recommendations.

Due to this shift, it is important to understand which types of content perform well and generate engagement. This study focuses on identifying the specific content characteristics that lead to higher engagement for …

The Laureate - An Undergraduate Literary Journal, Amelia Perleberg

Honors Theses

This thesis reflects on the editorial and publication process of the 24th edition of The Laureate, an undergraduate literary arts journal, during the 2025-2026 academic year. This thesis displays the role of editor-in-chief and examines the responsibilities, challenges, and personal growth that accompanied leading the journal. Through overseeing submissions, editing creative works, coordinating with the Design Center, and organizing the launch event, this thesis explores the collaborative and creative work required to produce a successful publication. The Laureate accepts a wide range of creative works, including poetry, fiction pieces, personal essays, photography, painting, scripts, etc. allowing undergraduate students to …

Creativity And Generosity: From Therapy To Canvas, Kelly Allen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Teresa Grzeslo, a retired occupational therapist and artist from Chicago, IL, created the artwork for the Spring 2026 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The acrylic painting, Wetland Heron (2023), features a great blue heron with its characteristic piercing gaze and elegant form, standing still in a marshland environment among tall grasses and shallow water. Painted using only her right side while seated in her wheelchair at home in her art studio, the painting’s rich textures and detail reflect careful observation and a reverence for birds and wildlife. Grzeslo’s artistic practice began after developing multiple sclerosis (MS), …

The Occupation Of Dance And Its Potential Effects On Trauma, Magan Higgins Gramling

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Trauma is a complex phenomenon. Because of its subjective nature, it can be defined in a variety of ways depending on the health care provider being asked. Though there are various forms of trauma, most definitions are comprised of components that establish its broad understanding of an emotional response to a disturbing incident. Trauma is a subjective experience and can occur in any setting, to any person. How trauma is stored in the body is less subjective though, with most experts understanding it not only lives in the brain, but also in the very cells affecting health and wellness on …

Perspectives On An Unconventional Partnership Between Occupational Therapists And Pediatric Dental Professionals, Marissa Holsonback, Reeti Douglas, Leslie Gazdeck

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Pediatric clients with disabilities are at increased risk for dental problems, including periodontal disease. Developmental delay and sensory processing dysfunction hinder acceptance of the stimulating dental environment and engagement in oral care routines at home. This health disparity is magnified by many dental professionals’ lack of training and confidence with children who have special needs. The holistic occupational therapy scope of practice is inclusive of oral care, pediatric diagnoses, sensory integration, and behavior management, allowing occupational therapists to collaborate with pediatric dental professionals to address the oral health disparity. This perspective manuscript provides occupational therapists with an evidence-supported understanding of …

Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Educators’ Perceptions Of Ot Student Rapport-Building Abilities During Level Ii Fieldwork, Carson Elwell, Tylar Fallaw, Ryan Harley, Abby Key, Kathleen Maley, Ryan M. Carrick

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: The aim of this study was to inform Occupational Therapy (OT) practice and future OT educational content through identification of rapport- building components. Fieldwork educators are uniquely positioned to assess OT students’ abilities and readiness for client rapport building during fieldwork.

Methods: A descriptive survey of 55 fieldwork educators (FWEs) investigated skills that FWEs consider necessary for OT students to build client rapport at a Level II fieldwork experience. A Qualtrics survey assessed FWEs’ perceptions of OT student rapport- building readiness components at the beginning of Level II fieldwork.

Results: Data from 55 responses revealed that …

The Use Of Gamification In Occupational Therapy Education, Chris Mulligan, Leslie Bennett, Donald F. Graves

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Gamification is an approach to game-based learning, also called educational games. These fun supplemental tools are infused into K-12 and higher education curriculums. This study aimed to discover faculty and student perspectives and explore gamification or game-based learning in accredited occupational therapy graduate programs through the lens of faculty (n = 47) and students (n =54). The primary researcher distributed two anonymous surveys: Survey 1 to current faculty and Survey 2 to students in occupational therapy programs, examining their use of game-based learning tools. The findings revealed that most faculty (n = 38, 85%) and students (n = 48, 92%) …

Occupational Therapy Student Performance In Level Ii Fieldwork Before And During A Global Pandemic, Ann M. Marsico, Cara A. Lekovitch, Ketki Raina

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted academic curricula and clinical settings, creating uncertainty about its impact on occupational therapy (OT) student learning, fieldwork performance, and competence. This study examined OT student performance during Level II fieldwork and the support required from the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator (AFWC) across prepandemic (2019), emerging (2020), and postemergence (2021–2022) periods in an accredited entry-level OT doctorate (OTD) program. The study used a retrospective observational study and employe secondary data analysis using the American Occupational Therapy Association Fieldwork Performance Evaluation (AOTA FWPE) from 2019–2022. Two-hundred and two OTD students from four cohorts at one institution participated. Student performance …

Exploring Stress Contagion: The Effect Of Faculty Stress Levels On Occupational Therapy Graduate Students, Dana Kolbfleisch

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Research has indicated a relationship between faculty and students as it pertains to stress levels and subsequent well-being in occupational therapy (OT) programs (Grab et al., 2021), a potential indication of a stress contagion effect. This research aimed to determine if faculty stress levels affect student stress levels in OT graduate programs. The researcher used an ecological correlational study design with a nonprobability convenience sampling procedure. Faculty and students (n = 19 and n = 165, respectively) from 367 accredited OT graduate programs across the United States completed a survey consisting of demographic questions and the PSS-10. In addition, OT …

Ethically Integrating Ai In Occupational Therapy Education: Enhancing Learning And Practice For The Future, Amy Sadek, Sabrina Gowette

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around since the 1950s and is gaining traction in higher education and among health care professions. In this era of technology, it is imperative we equip both educators and students to have tech centric skills to support learning, improve efficiency, and enhance skills. Faculty and students alike need to be able to understand the ethics behind using digital information, such as that from AI tools and sources. As educators and students become more reliant on technology, and specifically AI, it is imperative not to lose the human connection in education. Educators are an integral part …

Doing Drag: Exploring The Experiences Of Drag As An Occupation For Performers In California, Alicia Montes, Anna Ranario, Lilibeth Rosales, Eileen Spahle, Nathan Gelman, Laura Greiss Hess, Karen Mccarthy

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Drag is a performative art where individuals explore identity, challenge societal norms, and foster community through exaggerated gendered performance. Drag in the United States is facing potential restrictions and remains underexplored in occupational science and occupational therapy literature.

Methods: This qualitative study explored the experiences of drag performers in California, applying an occupational perspective through the framework of form, function, and meaning. Five drag performers were interviewed. Reflective thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data.

Findings: Identity was the central theme, interconnected with form, belonging, non-belonging, meaning and motivation, and resistive occupation. Findings highlight drag …

Addressing Feeding And Eating Issues With The Pediatric Population Using A Telehealth Service Delivery Model: A Case Report, Lyndsay Fait, Raegan Furman, Devani Emery, Bryan M. Gee

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: This case report reviews the implementation of telehealth-based occupational therapy interventions for pediatric feeding issues in a client with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). It highlights the use of a synchronous telehealth service delivery model to address sensory-based feeding issues.

Method: A single-patient case report was conducted, outlining the occupational therapy process with an 11-year-old male with ASD and ARFID who receives most nutrition through G-tube feedings and presents food selectivity. Telehealth sessions were conducted via Zoom, with occupational therapy assistant students providing interventions under faculty supervision.

Results: Telehealth interventions were successfully implemented to …

Empowering Parents Through Occupational Therapy And Primary Care Partnerships: A Feasibility Study, Maureen M. Fischer, Jennifer E. Lape

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Partnerships between occupational therapists and primary care providers may increase parents' accessibility to needed information to support their children’s development and promote occupational engagement. The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility and potential impact of occupational therapy-led parent education sessions in pediatric primary care.

Method: We designed a mixed methods feasibility study with two individualized parent education sessions within 2 weeks. The study took place at a pediatric primary care practice. Convenience sampling was used to recruit nine parents who met these criteria: parent/caregiver of a child 3 years of age or under, 18 years of …

Exploring Quality Of Life After Traumatic Brain Injury: Insights From The Peo Model, Natalie S. King, Bryan M. Gee, Mary Shotwell, Mark A. Campbell

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major global health concern, affecting millions of people each year. TBI often results in long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments that can drastically reduce survivors' quality of life (QOL). These impairments influence daily activities, emotional well-being, social participation, and overall life satisfaction, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. This study seeks to provide deeper insights into the factors that influence the QOL for TBI survivors.

Methods: This research employed a phenomenological qualitative approach to understand how survivors navigate their post injury lives. Fourteen TBI survivors, aged 18 to …

Research Day 2026 Program, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School Of Medicine

Research Day

No abstract provided.

Preservice Teachers’ Knowledge, Skills, And Perceptions Related To Data-Based Decision Making In Elementary Reading Instruction, Erin K. Washburn, Samantha A. Gesel, Miranda S. Fitzgerald, Corinne R. Kingsbery

Reading Horizons: A Journal of Literacy and Language Arts

Teachers’ knowledge of and ability to use reading assessments and assessment data to inform instruction has long been recognized as a core teaching competency. Data-based decision making (DBDM) is a process by which educators examine assessment data to identify student strengths and needs and apply those findings to their practice. DBDM has been linked to student achievement/engagement and positive teacher self-efficacy. However, DBDM, specifically in reading, is a complex process for teachers. Preservice teacher preparation has been deemed a space for the introduction of DBDM in reading. However, few studies have explored how targeted instruction in reading-related DBDM may impact …

The Bronco Well: An Educational Podcast For Pediatric Caregivers’ Wellbeing & Quality Of Life, Molly Veldheer

Capstone Projects

Pediatric caregivers of children with increased and complex physical, cognitive, and emotional needs are an often-overlooked population. Though their children may be involved in many essential services including occupational therapy, the needs of these caregivers largely go unmet. Occupational therapists are equipped to provide valuable care and education to the entire family and not just their pediatric clients. In efforts to fill the unmet needs, this occupational therapy-based podcast was created as resource for pediatric caregivers about pediatric caregivers. The development of this capstone considered the time, energy, and financial strains that are often placed on pediatric caregivers and determined …

Occupational Therapy & Zoo Exhibit Design: Embedding Accessibility Within, Jacqui Randall

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed at the Indianapolis Zoo. Zoos and museums infrequently contract, but very few employ an occupational therapist to assist with exhibit design development. An occupational therapy consultant could assess exhibit accessibility and provide potential solutions to make them more accessible and inclusive for individuals with disabilities. The goal of the project was to create a list of refined recommendations to make the oceans building more accessible and incorporate more multisensory experiences when it is renovated in the spring of 2027. Also, the Accessibility and Sensation Among Zoo Exhibits and Interactives: Checklist and Application Guide was …

Developing And Implementing Pediatric Pelvic Health Education Groups For Autistic Youth Focused On Toilet Training, Sasha Poland

Capstone Projects

Occupational therapists (OTPs) have a crucial role in treating pelvic health conditions as toileting is an activity of daily living. However, pelvic health research is primarily focused through a physical therapy lens and doesn’t always address challenges pertaining to children, and even more so neurodivergent youth. Furthermore, there is a gap in the literature in how specifically OTPs can assist in providing pelvic health care to all individuals including neurodivergent youth. The goal of this doctoral capstone was to create and provide educational sessions to educate parents, educators, and BCBAs on the role of pelvic health OT in solving their …

Sensory Processing At A Children’S Advocacy Center: Staff Education And Resource Development To Support Trauma-Informed Care, Hayley Jackson

Capstone Projects

This capstone addresses a critical gap in understanding sensory processing within trauma-informed care for children who have experienced sexual abuse. Occupational therapy (OT) offers a unique perspective for supporting children’s sensory processing and regulation needs; however, OT is not utilized in Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) settings. This project aimed to enhance understanding of OT's scope within trauma-informed care, provide education on sensory-based strategies, and develop resources to support regulation in clinical, home, and school settings. Project objectives were achieved through the development of caregiver and educator handouts, a SMART room sensory binder, a visual schedule binder, SMART movement cards, and …

Beyond Baby: How Occupational Therapy Supports Families In The Prenatal And Postpartum Period, Taylor Maysonet

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project focuses on the role of occupational therapy in maternal and infant health, supporting families during the prenatal and postnatal period. While occupational therapy has a strong foundation in promoting health, independence, participation and roles and routines, there remains a gap in community awareness of available support for families during this life transition. Many caregivers report feeling underprepared, overwhelmed, and disconnected from resources that could support their physical, emotional, and occupational wellbeing.

The objective of this project was to identify gaps within the interdisciplinary team during the prenatal and postpartum period. From there, I was able to …

Social Skill Program Development For Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Clayton Stapert

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed at the Center for Disability Services (CDS) and focused on developing and implementing a social skills program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Many existing social skills programs focus on general or work-related skills, but there is a need for programs that help individuals apply social skills during real-life community activities. This project aimed to address that gap by creating a structured, occupation-based program within an adult day skill-building day center.

The program included education, group discussion, role-playing, and community outings to help participants practice skills such as interacting with cashiers, …

Reconstructing Life One Clay Pot At A Time, Kelly Allen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Kate Lewis, a ceramicist and teaching artist based in Grand Rapids, MI, created the artwork for the Winter 2026 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The image features a collection of heart-shaped ceramic pinch pots, produced after she was told she may never be able to move her left arm again. She created them on the recommendation of an occupational therapist who understood the value of meaningful occupations for recovery. These vessels represent a pivotal shift in Kate’s rehabilitation from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Diagnosed in 2018 after sustaining an injury to her wrist, the minor …

Investigating The Efficacy Of An Online Multigenerational Awareness Course For Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study, Susan Blair, Barbara M. Doucet, Jerilyn Callen, Kirsten Davin, Shelby Hutchinson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

In today’s multigenerational society, particularly in health care settings, thriving can be challenging because of generational differences. Occupational therapy educational programs (OTEPs) prepare students for work environments where three to four different generations may be present. This study examines the effectiveness of an online multigenerational awareness (MGA) course. The secondary objectives include increasing students’ knowledge of enhanced multigenerational collaboration and communication strategies in preparation for future clinical practice. A pilot group of eight participants from various university departments reviewed the course content and completed preenrollment and postenrollment surveys, providing feedback regarding the applicability and perceived usefulness of the multigenerational awareness …

Ruth Coleman Denard (1906-2002): One Of The First Registered Black Occupational Therapists, Mirline Milien

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The experiences and contributions of underrepresented groups in the occupational therapy profession are insufficiently explored and largely absent from occupational therapy education. For instance, the narratives of early Black occupational therapists and students are virtually nonexistent in the literature. As the profession moves toward greater inclusivity, it is essential to uncover these hidden stories and legacies to better understand the profession’s evolution and help shape its future. This article highlights Ruth Coleman Denard, one of the first registered Black occupational therapists in the United States, and provides an overview of her career trajectory. Historical research methods, including a review of …

Enhancing Self-Esteem In Adolescents During Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization: A Mixed Methods Study, Praveen Injeti, Julie D. Kugel, Dragana Krpalek, Liane Hewitt, Lida Gharibvand

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Low self-esteem (LSE) can negatively impact adolescent mental health, leading to suicidal ideation (SI). Social stressors, such as peer rejections, are considered a source of stress that can contribute to LSE, SI, and subsequent admission to psychiatric facilities. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention to improve self-awareness and self-esteem during short-term hospitalization.

Method: The research used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the impact of a psychoeducational intervention by an occupational therapist on 16 adolescents. The Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) was used before the intervention (pretest), immediately after the intervention (posttest …

Preface, Georgiana Donavin, Eve Salisbury

Accessus

Preface for Accessus 9, no. 1.

Reframing Narratives, Reclaiming Futures: Antiracist School Counseling And Black And Brown Girls In Stem, Renae D. Mayes, Lia D. Falco, Shontell Zenon, Dequindre Hughes, Yijia Chen, Lydia Ross, Medha Dalal

Journal of College Access

Black and Brown girls often have educational experiences that stifle their career aspirations, especially in STEM fields. These experiences can be exacerbated by educators who misunderstand and refuse to recognize their STEM potential, thus limiting their opportunity to build STEM identities. School counselors can disrupt these experiences through antiracist practices that cultivate homeplace and joy for Black and Brown girls to heal and grow while working to address harmful policies and practices. In this paper, authors discuss how school counselors can specifically use antiracist school counseling practices to support Black and Brown girls in STEM as a part of multi-tiered …