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Bridging Vision And Function: The Intersection Of Occupational And Vision Therapy, Julia Lalain

Capstone Projects

This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on designing, implementing, and sustaining a neurovisual rehabilitation program at McLaren Northern Michigan’s outpatient clinic. The program addressed a critical gap in neurovisual rehabilitation services in Northern Michigan, particularly for patients with neurovisual processing difficulties from conditions such as neurological disorders and developmental visual processing deficits. This DCE’s objectives included designing a tailored neurovisual perceptual rehabilitation program, increasing awareness of visual perceptual deficits through an in-service to clinic staff, and producing educational marketing materials to encourage collaboration among occupational therapists (OTs) and interdisciplinary teams (IDTs). This DCE aimed to integrate visual perceptual skills into …

Applying Occupational Therapy Principles To An Adaptive Ski Program: Strategies For Education, Advocacy, And Development, Alyssa Klaver

Capstone Projects

Adaptive skiing is a subset of adaptive sports and recreation that refers to any modification to downhill ski equipment to allow people with disabilities to participate. Adaptive skiing falls into the realm of occupational therapy (OT) because of its focus on meaningful participation in leisure and sport occupation. The purpose of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to use occupational therapy-based principles and knowledge to promote leadership and program development within an established adaptive ski program at the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) in Breckenridge, Colorado. Objectives addressed during this DCE include addressing burnout prevention for program staff, updating training …

The Impact Of Reminiscent Kits In Reducing Behaviors In Individuals With Dementia, Moriah Holloway

Capstone Projects

This capstone project explored the use of reminiscent kits, including robotic companion pets and hyper-realistic baby dolls, as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce behavioral symptoms in individuals with dementia. This topic is highly relevant to occupational therapy, as it supports engagement, emotional regulation, and quality of life through meaningful, person-centered activity. The project addressed a gap in accessible, individualized interventions that can be adapted across varying cognitive levels in dementia care. The objective was to design a functional program that could be implemented by staff, focusing on residents in both high-functioning and advanced stages of dementia. Interventions were tailored based …

Development Of A Service-Learning Implementation Guide; Development Of An Articulation Pathway For Occupational Therapy Assistants To Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program, Mikayla E. Eshbach

Capstone Projects

This paper explores two initiatives within the Occupational Therapy Department at Western Michigan University (WMU): the implementation of service-learning and the development of an articulation pathway for Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) transitioning to the Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD).

The first part emphasizes service-learning as a beneficial tool for preparing students for clinical roles while enriching communities. A needs assessment identified the need for a standardized framework for long-term community engagement, resulting in a service-learning implementation guide tailored to the department. This guide aims to enhance communication with the Office of Community Engaged Learning and increase faculty awareness of available …

Enhancing Dementia Care: Learning Modules And Simulations For Assisted Living Facility Staff And Dominican Sisters, Emma Cole

Capstone Projects

Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities do not provide their staff with specialized training in dementia care, which can lead to decreased confidence and comfort when working in memory care units (Smythe et al, 2016). This capstone project aimed to enhance dementia care by developing recorded PowerPoint learning modules, handouts, and in-person simulation experiences focused on dementia education. To better understand the needs, preferences, and daily experiences of individuals with dementia, time was spent directly engaging with residents through meaningful activities and personal interactions. These experiences informed the development of the educational materials and ensured they were rooted in …

Enhancing Staff Training And Safety For Campers With Disabilities At An Accessible Outdoor Camp, Dalla Wong

Capstone Projects

There’s a practice gap surrounding training for young camp staff, such as counselors, on needs specific to safe transfers, ergonomic approaches, and inclusive participation. Public recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities are limited, and significant research is required. Initially, the literature review focused on establishing structured training materials, skill resources, and a manual for using adaptive equipment and safe lifting processes. The purpose of this capstone project was to address these gaps in research and clinical practice to ensure camper safety at an accessible camp for individuals with disabilities from an occupational therapy (OT) perspective. In this capstone experience, an …

The Impact Of Equine-Assisted Services Through An Occupational Therapy Lens, Caitlyn Espinosa

Capstone Projects

The topic of this capstone project is the role of occupational therapy in Equine-Assisted Services. This field is currently dominated by physical therapy because occupational therapists report a lack of knowledge and training involving this unique treatment strategy. Another common issue for equine-assisted programs is funding because insurance often denies coverage for these unique and expensive services. Therefore, objectives for this project include development of three educational visuals, submission of three grant proposals, completion of two continuing education opportunities, and service provision. Results of this project include educational visuals on (1) the basics of Equine-Assisted Services, (2) the impact of …

Exploring The Role Of An Occupational Therapist In Driver Rehabilitation, Lauren Garling

Capstone Projects

Driver Rehabilitation is a specialized occupational therapy service designed to promote independence and mobility in the community by teaching or adapting driving for individuals with medical conditions or injuries. This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) addressed the unmet needs of Automobility Driver Rehabilitation and the field of driver rehabilitation through advanced clinical practice and education. Automobility’s website lacked adequate information and resources on their website. An aspect of this DCE was to finalize their website by adding comprehensive details on services, educational resources, articles, and a FAQ section. Additionally, medical insurance providers do not cover driver rehabilitation as a medically necessary …

Program Development For Occupational Therapy Services Within A Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, Charles H. Hanks

Capstone Projects

The goal for this capstone project was to advocate for occupational therapy services to be provided within a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). The concentration areas of my capstone project were occupational therapy program development and advocacy. CCBHCs provides a variety of medical, mental health, and substance use/abuse services to persons, groups, and populations living in the community. Currently, only qualified mental health professionals (QMHP) can provide skilled services to individuals significantly impacted by their challenges. This limits the number of trained professionals that can effectively treat and provide services to individuals in this setting. Occupational Therapists (OT) are …

Promoting Mental Wellness In Emergency Medical Service Students, Providers, And Their Support Systems Through Occupational Therapy, Morgan Gutzman

Capstone Projects

Emergency medical service (EMS) students and providers work in high-stakes and high-stress environments with limited education on how to manage the psychological toll of the job. Research shows that EMS providers have a higher prevalence of mental health struggles and suicide than the general population, which demonstrates the strong need for awareness, education, intervention, and stigma reduction. Occupational therapy (OT) is very capable of supporting this population through mental wellness education and awareness, occupational balance, and trauma-informed self-care strategies. One goal of this capstone project was to create and disseminate multimedia resources for EMS students, providers, and their support systems. …

Addressing Caregiver Health Through Intergenerational Relationships And Occupational Therapy’S Role In Supporting Caregiver Health, Madison Cochensparger

Capstone Projects

More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for a loved one with dementia, valued at nearly $350 billion (Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, 2024). This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) aimed to implement an intergenerational program focused on improving dementia caregiver health by creating meaningful relationships of many generations of caregivers through the lens of an occupational therapy (OT) student. Intergenerational programs are defined as a way to facilitate relationships with different generations to enhance their everyday value in life. Occupational therapists work with all populations, exposing individuals with tools and strategies to live a meaningful and purposeful life. Results …

Enhancing Nbcot® Exam Readiness In An Entry-Level Otd Program, Kallen Wolfer

Capstone Projects

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT®) exam is extremely important for both occupational therapy (OT) students and academic programs. However, the exam and its accompanying study resources are often expensive and thus inaccessible to many students. Western Michigan University (WMU) offers an entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program with limited exam preparatory material offerings for its students. This capstone project aimed to increase student access to NBCOT® exam resources to enhance readiness to sit for and pass the exam. Project objectives and outcomes included the development of an eLearning course covering general NBCOT® exam topics, department purchase …

Fit For Life: Improving Quality Of Life And Fall Prevention Through Group Fitness For Older Adults, Alison K. Plasman

Capstone Projects

The purpose of my doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to create group fitness classes for older adults to address fall prevention and quality of life. While the primary focus of this DCE was program development, pre/post testing was administered to 11 participants who engaged in regular participation of the program over the course of 6 weeks. Overall, 100% of participants noticed improvements in both their fear of falling, and quality of life following the Fit for Life program. The exercise classes were multi-disciplinary and addressed balance, cardiovascular endurance, upper body strength, lower body strength and core training. Participants reported great …

Enhancing Confidence And Co-Regulation: The Integration Of A Virtual Support Program For Caregivers Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Braeleigh Mccoy

Capstone Projects

Caregivers can play a role in cultivating and developing emotional regulation skills through co-regulation. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can experience higher levels of emotional difficulties than typically developing children. These emotional difficulties can significantly impact a child’s quality of life (QOL) and the well-being of their families. Caregiver’s response to these emotional difficulties can guide them back to a regulated state and increase participation in functional activities. Occupational Therapy (OT) works at providing techniques, educational material, resources, and collaboration with caregivers to promote emotional literacy and connection. Previous research has highlighted the importance of co-regulation between caregivers and …

Enhancing Independence Of Individuals Who Are Aging In Place Through Smart Home Technology, Grayden Hoekwater

Capstone Projects

This capstone project explores the use of Amazon Echo Shows and Alexa technology to enhance the independence of older adults and individuals with disabilities aging in place. The project was implemented at Disability Advocates of Kent County (DAKC), where occupational therapists were trained to conduct comprehensive home safety assessments while also assisting consumers with home modifications, equipment, resources, and funding options so they continue living independently in their own home. Pre- and post-surveys with 13 consumers at DAKC assessed the impact of the technology on daily functioning and independence. Results showed that 85% of participants reported increased independence in managing …

Emission Behavior At The Single Emitter Scale From A Porous Media Ionic Liquid Ion Source, Thomas Victor Kerber

Dissertations

Ionic liquid ion sources (ILIS) are being developed as one solution to fill a technology gap in low power, high efficiency, high specific impulse space propulsion systems. With a sufficiently intense electric field applied between an emitter electrode and an extractor electrode, charged particles are extracted from the fluid surface and accelerated out of the thruster. In this work, three experimental campaigns examine emission behavior of a single emitter ILIS made of porous material that allows passive propellant feed via capillary action of the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMI-BF₄).

Repeated measurements of the emitter and extractor current as …

The Role Of Coping Strategies On Acculturative Stress, Depression, And Anxiety In An Arab Community, Laura Torio, Khadeja Najjar, Ilya Yaroslavsky

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

This study explores acculturative stress (AS), coping strategies (CS), and mental health in Arab immigrants (N=68). Results show that avoidant-CS are linked to depression and anxiety, while problem-focused-CS are protective. Age correlated with CS and mental health outcomes. Interventions addressing avoidant-CS could improve mental health in minority populations.

Lunch Begins At St. Andrews Hall, Lunch Time

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Lunch begins at St. Andrews Hall

Conference Moves To St. Andrews Hall Via Anthony Wayne Drive For Mid-Day Activities, Including Lunch., Transition To St. Andrews Hall For Mid-Day Activities, Including Lunch

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Conference moves to St. Andrew's Hall via Anthony Wayne Drive for Mid-Day Activities, including Lunch.

Campus transportation available to and from St. Andrews Hall by request.

Counseling Psychology & Social Justice In Challenging Times, Cassandra L. Hinger, Julia Phillips Ph.D., Tawanda Greer-Medley Ph.D., Sharon L. Bowman Ph.D., Hspp, Lmhc

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

This roundtable serves as a space for students and faculty to process how recent legislative and institutional policies are affecting our roles as counseling psychologists. We will provide resources for advocacy and self/community-care to sustain us as we navigate and resist the policies that threaten the progress of our field.

Preparing For Trump 2.0: Serving Targeted Populations In Clinical Practice, Fern Pinkston Psyd, Caleb Chadwick Phd

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

With the arrival of a second Trump administration, the responsibility to those who have entrusted us with their care is more salient than ever. Roundtable attendees will identify pitfalls and best practices in marketing and documentation; the role of systems; and channels for consultation as challenges arise.

The Purpose Room - Illuminating Systematic Change In Detroit Through Mental Health, Economic Empowerment. And Community Healing, Precious Green

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Detroit faces deep-rooted challenges related to crime, unemployment, and mental health disparities, disproportionately affecting underserved communities. This presentation explores a holistic, community-based approach to addressing these issues through The Purpose Room Collective, a model that integrates mental health services, workforce development, and trauma-informed public safety initiatives. By examining the systemic barriers that contribute to economic instability and crime, we highlight the need for culturally responsive interventions that empower individuals and communities. Attendees will gain practical strategies for applying trauma-informed care, second-chance employment programs, and community-led mental health initiatives within their own professional settings. This session underscores the importance of collaborative, …

Expanding And Revising The Lesbian Gay And Bisexual Identity Scale For Lgbtq+ Youth, Jesse Chen Ma, Sarah Hibner-Kiperman

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

This poster proposes to expand and revise the lesbian, gay, and bisexual identity scale (LGBIS), a 27-item scale designed to assess sexual identity, by developing a scale normed on LGBTQ+ youth (LGBTQIS). It will present the exploratory and confirmatory analyses and explore how to incorporate this scale for future research.

Lgbtq+ Youth’S Experiences Of Minority Stress: A Survey, Liz Ballinger B.A., Jesse Chen M.A., Caitlin Johnson M.A., Sarah Kiperman Phd

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

This poster will cover a proposed study on LGBTQ+ youths' experiences of minority stress in the current day and context. We used the minority stress theory to evaluate the relationship of stressors to outcomes, and how protective factors moderate the relationship.

Lunch Hour, Lunch Time

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Lunch Time!

Ce Eligible Workshop: New Thinking In Ethical Decision-Making, Mark Leach Phd

Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Dr. Leach's talk is one of two pre-conference CE workshops for the Great Lakes Conference. Please note that the CE workshops require a separate registration process that can found by visiting the main conference webpage.

Artificial Intelligence For Better In-Game Nfl Performance, Christopher Mcmanus

Honors Theses

In this thesis I examined the use of AI modeling for the use in the modern-day NFL, both for improving in-game play calling, and creating better recovery plans for players all around the league. When finding articles detailing these models, I only focused on works involving the current day NFL, and models used widely around the league to this day. The literature detailed in this thesis mainly describes modeling used by Amazon Web Services (AWS, 2024, The NFL’s partner for all things analytics, and data modeling. My main objective for this literature review was to show the impact AI modeling …

Artivism For Access: Disrupting The Educational Status Quo, Mercedes Albarran, Rocio Zamora

Journal of College Access

This piece explores the transformative role of art as a platform for historically marginalized populations to challenge educational inequities and catalyze social change. Through the concept of "artivism," art and activism merge to humanize complex social issues, fostering understanding and solidarity. Highlighting historical moments such as the Chicano/a movement and contemporary contributions from students at Hoover High School, the text underscores how creative expression empowers individuals to disrupt the educational status quo. It examines the rich tapestry of student-led artivism that elevates voices from diverse backgrounds, notably BIPOC and first-generation students, in their pursuit of education and societal change. Through …

From The Guest Editors, Mercedes Albarran, Rocio Zamora

Journal of College Access

No abstract provided.

The English Apocalypse: A Fourteenth-Century Translation Of The Book Of Revelation From Columbia University, Ms Plimpton Add. 03, Ethan Campbell

TEAMS Middle English Texts

Before the Wycliffite Bible in the 1380s, one of the only complete books of the Bible to be translated into Middle English was the Book of Revelation. The English Apocalypse, translated from the French sometime in the early 14th century, must have been well known to the later translators, since it appears in 18 extant manuscripts, sometimes alongside Wycliffite material. This edition reproduces, for the first time, a copy of the English Apocalypse, which actually replaced the Book of Revelation at the end of a Wycliffite New Testament. Whether the manuscript compiler simply preferred this version or meant it to …