Digital Commons Network^™

The Sensational Eight: Education On The Sensory System Within A Center Based Multi-Sensory Environment, Jenna Gottschalk

Capstone Projects

The sensory system plays an essential role for individuals in how they interact with their environment, engage in activities of daily living (ADLs), engage in meaningful learning, and access to higher levels of thinking. The role of occupational therapy is to promote these skills for students within the school system to promote access to their educational environment and support meaningful learning. The ACOTE concentration areas for this capstone include education on the sensory system and sensory processing disorder as well as program development through the application and obtainment for a grant to promote financial resources for Lincoln school for students …

Advocating For Occupational Therapy's Role Within Pediatric Oncology: Overcoming Barriers And Expanding Impact, Erin R. Barents

Capstone Projects

Research supports the role of occupational therapy (OT) in improving quality of life and overall outcomes for pediatric oncology patients. However, OT remains underutilized within this population. The focus of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to address this gap by advocating for increased OT referrals through interdisciplinary education and direct clinical practice. My project took place at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital (HDVCH), where I collaborated with a variety of healthcare professionals (HCP) to assess the current referral process and increase awareness of OT’s role in pediatric oncology care. To support this goal, I developed and delivered in-service training sessions, …

Co-Regulation And Connection: Caregiver Education And Training, Anna Kelley

Capstone Projects

This capstone project aimed to bridge the gap between pediatric occupational therapy practice and caregiver education by enhancing understanding of co-regulation and sensory integration—two foundational concepts in supporting emotional and sensory development in children. The project addressed a critical need for accessible caregiver training, given time constraints and productivity demands often placed on therapists. The initiative included the development and delivery of a caregiver-focused presentation and supporting educational materials. These resources provided practical, client-centered strategies that could be applied beyond the clinical setting. As a result, caregivers reported increased confidence and understanding, while also fostering a sense of community and …

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 …

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 …

Supporting Every Camper: Understanding Stress And Trauma-Informed Care, Hunter Mccaig

Capstone Projects

Camp settings offer unique opportunities for social play, independence and self-care, sensory integration, and motor skills. While camps can be exciting, and have new experiences with much to offer, it can also be extremely overwhelming. Many children impacted by stress and trauma face challenges that impact their engagement and safety across all environments. There is a lack of trauma-informed practices in non-traditional settings such as camp, leaving staff unprepared to support the unique sensory, emotional, and behavioral needs of all campers. My objectives throughout my capstone serve to support all campers, using principles of occupational therapy using a trauma informed …

Occupational Therapy-Based Strategies To Support Tier 1 And 2 Of Mtss, Katherine Satterfield

Capstone Projects

This capstone project aimed to create and disseminate a range of occupational therapy (OT) resources and educational guides for teachers and faculty within the general education classroom, specifically addressing tier 1 and 2 supports of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). These OT-based strategies which are focused on posture, handwriting, scissor skills, sensory processing, dressing skills, and more, are designed to enhance student engagement and performance within the academic setting. Despite the positive outcome potential of OT utilization within schools, strategies are often underutilized due to inadequate training, limited understanding of OT's role, and restricted access to resources. This project …

Trauma-Responsive Sensory Integration Approaches & Compassion Fatigue Prevention: Enhancing Clinical Practice Skills And Clinician Wellbeing, Emily Vachon

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience consisted of two concentration areas to address healthcare needs outlined in current research. The first concentration area was “advanced clinical practice skills” to develop enhanced trauma-responsive sensory integrative approaches in occupational therapy practice. Healthcare professionals and facilities are often ill-equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals who have experienced traumatic events; therefore, it is imperative to receive advanced training in this area. The second concentration area was “program development” to create and implement a compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and burnout prevention program for occupational therapists working with complex trauma cases. Current research displays a need …

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 …

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 …

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 …

Enhancing Health And Wellness Initiatives For Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Anna Cole

Capstone Projects

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often experience lower levels of physical activity and higher rates of obesity and sedentarism when compared to their neurotypical peers (Ferreira et al., 2022; Shin & Park et al., 2012). Research has shown that regular exercise and cooking programs can improve strength, aerobic capacity, emotional well-being and independent living skills among individuals with IDD (Bouzas et al., 2018; Pastula et al., 2012; Pestana et al., 2018). Ready for Life is a non-profit organization that offers inclusive post-secondary education and adult day programming to promote autonomy and well-being for individuals with IDD. While exercise …

Developing And Implementing Support Groups For Parents Postpartum, Kathleen Van Kampen

Capstone Projects

The focus of this capstone project was to develop postpartum support groups to provide connection and support to new parents experiencing mental health challenges. Research and stakeholder interviews revealed significant gaps in holistic care for parents during their first year after childbirth, particularly regarding mental health, occupational balance, and education on child development. In response, a seven-week support group was implemented at Aptitude Yoga in Rockford, Michigan, with site mentor Amanda Brennan, a pelvic floor occupational therapist and owner of Balanced Pelvic Health and Wellness. The free sessions included evidence-based education, open discussion, and peer support, covering topics such as …

Sex, Sexuality And Intimacy In Occupational Therapy, Samantha Baril

Capstone Projects

“Sex is the most common behavior among humans after birth, breathing, sleeping, and death” (Brown, 2019, as cited in Ellis & Ungco, 2023). The Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) states that sexual activity is an activity of daily living (ADL) and managing intimate partner relationships is considered an instrumental activity of daily living (IADL), however, Occupational Therapy (OT) practitioners are not addressing sex and intimacy in practice. This could be due to reasons such as; uncomfortability, lack of knowledge and training, or fears of being professionally discredited. OT’s are experiencing a gap on the topic of sex and intimacy beginning …

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 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 …

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 …

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 …

Promoting Equitable Access To Music Through Implementation Of An Eye Gaze Musical Instrument (Eyeharp) In A Special Education School, Amber Foster

Capstone Projects

Music is a universal language that transcends physical, cognitive, and cultural boundaries. The benefits of playing a musical instrument are well known and researched, however, individuals with severe motor disabilities often face physiological, neurological, and/or societal barriers that limit their access to playing a musical instrument. Additionally, there is limited knowledge about adaptive musical instruments that are available to serve these individuals and their needs. To address these challenges, this capstone project utilized EyeHarp, an adaptive musical instrument that uses eye gaze technology, to allow students at a special education school with limited motor abilities to create music. The objectives …

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 …

An Exploration Of Self-Identity And General Functioning Among U.S. Female Athletes Post-Paralympic Games, Riley M. Groves

Capstone Projects

Paralympians are a unique group of elite athletes with varying levels of disabilities who compete at the high level of sport. While much of the existing research focuses on their training and athletic accomplishments, little is known about their lives post-Paralympic Games and the role of Occupational therapy (OT) in athletic performance and everyday life. This doctoral capstone experience was conducted as a qualitative research study, with objectives developed to guide the research process. The study utilized an interpretative phenomenological analysis framework, grounded by Social Identity Theory, to explore the self-identity, sense of purpose, and functional abilities of Paralympians post-competition, …

Behavioral Insights From Robotic Pet Interactions In Dementia Care, Hannah Lindstrom

Capstone Projects

Animal assisted therapy has become a common holistic option to negate decreasing functional outcomes within the dementia population, though these pets often are high maintenance; therefore, robotic pets may be a viable solution. To use robotic pets in practice with individuals with dementia, we need to know the mechanisms behind human-robot interaction and common behaviors shown during this interaction. Therefore, the focus of this doctoral capstone experience was to conduct an observational study of behaviors dementia patients display when interacting with robotic pets. Objectives met during this doctoral capstone experience included recording participants behaviors in the presence of a robotic …

A Review Of Smartsocks® Technology For Dementia Care: Addressing Agitation And Implications For Occupational Therapy Practice, Lucile Webb

Capstone Projects

The population of persons with dementia (PWD) is rising in the United States, expected to reach 82 million by 2050 (Alzheimer’s Association, 2024). Agitation is one of the most common and challenging aspects of the disease characterized by irritability, severe restlessness, physical aggressiveness, and/or verbal aggression (Carrini et al., 2021). This behavior can cause significant stress for carers, pharmaceutical interventions have limited effectiveness and may have adverse side effects. Technological approaches for addressing agitation have included robotic pets, wearable technology, and environmental sensory modifications although with mixed results. The purpose of this paper is to provide an in-depth product review …

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 …

Enhancing Support For Refugee Women: Supplemental Resources For Service Providers Through An Occupational Therapy Lens, Nabilah Salwa

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) focused on developing comprehensive, occupational therapy (OT) -informed resources to support refugee women and young adults. The primary goal was to equip community leaders—particularly those working with Treetops Collective in Grand Rapids (GR), Michigan—with practical, culturally sensitive tools to better serve refugees and New American members. Refugee women face many barriers to occupational participation due to intersecting cultural, linguistic, and systemic challenges. While existing literature highlights general needs within refugee communities, there is a lack of tailored, practical resources to guide service providers in daily practice.

In response to this gap, resources were created with …

Creating Connections Through Art In Occupational Therapy And Its Impact On Identity And Belonging, Lianna Paris

Capstone Projects

Art has been a therapeutic tool in occupational therapy (OT) since the profession originated. Despite paradigm shifts in the field of OT, art-based interventions remain a valuable approach for promoting self-expression, emotional regulation, and skill development. However, many individuals living with disabilities still face limited access to creative therapeutic opportunities that support social connection and meaningful occupations. Addressing this gap is important, as incorporating art into OT can empower individuals to build effective coping skills and enhance their sense of identity and belonging. This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) aims to develop creative therapeutic environments at Western Michigan University’s (WMU) Unified …

Occupational Therapy’S Role In Older Adults With Low Vision, Claire Sinacori

Capstone Projects

This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on gaining advanced clinical practice skills in the field of low vision occupational therapy (OT) and developing accessible educational handouts for clients receiving low vision services through VisABLE Solutions in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The project addressed the gap in awareness and education within low vision rehabilitation which is an underrepresented area of OT practice.

The DCE’s objectives were met and implemented by the end of 14 weeks. This included increasing clinical knowledge in low vision conditions and OT evaluation and intervention while also addressing the needs of the site. These included creating accessible handouts for …

Spirituality In Daily Living: A Program Focused On Enhancing Spiritual Well-Being For Older Adults, Amanda Murray

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience explored the role of occupational therapy in promoting spiritual and religious engagement among older adults. Within occupational therapy, spirituality is often overlooked or only considered in the context of illness or major life transitions, with limited attention given to proactively supporting spirituality in everyday life. To address this gap, a seven-week program was developed to integrate spirituality into daily habits and routines while also introducing new opportunities for spiritual engagement. Additional initiatives focused on raising awareness of supportive tools and resources to help maintain religious engagement amid potential physical and sensory changes experienced by older adults. …

Integrating Cultural Competence And Humility Into Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Education, Jade Nguyen

Capstone Projects

Background: As minority populations in the United States continue to rise, occupational therapy (OT) personnel must be equipped with the necessary skills to provide culturally responsive care to clients from diverse backgrounds. However, OT programs nationwide are lagging behind in delivering adequate cultural training to their students.

Purpose: The project aimed to develop an instructional module for promoting cultural competence and humility among OT students.

Method: The DCE involved three months of in-depth research and collaboration with diverse cultural advisors, including African American, Asian American, Hispanic and/or Latino American, and Muslim representatives, to develop a teaching module. The instructional module …

Sensory Processing At Bethany Christian Services: Education And Implementation Of Sensory Needs For Adolescent Males Through A Trauma Responsive Lens, Tatum L. Johnson

Capstone Projects

This capstone project addressed a critical gap in sensory processing support and understanding among adolescent males with sexual behavior problems at Bethany Christian Services’ Ridgeview Residential Program. The project aimed to enhance awareness of Occupational Therapy (OT) among staff and residents, improve inter-organizational communication, support classroom sensory regulation, and promote mindfulness practices within the facility. These objectives were achieved through a range of learning activities, including “What is OT?” educational videos, OT communication binders for each resident, a training binder for incoming OT students pertaining to Bethany Christian Services, sensory kits for classroom use with corresponding educational videos, scheduled classroom …