Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Parenting With Peace: A Childhood Anxiety Education Program, Grace Arnold, Angela Blackwell, Teri Jetter, Msot

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The Parenting with Peace education program offers a comprehensive education program to parents of children with Anxiety. The program delves into the topics of self-regulation, emotional regulation, etc. The program offers parents information on each topic, information on how parenting impacts the topic, and at-home interventions that parents can engage in to help support their child. The program can help parents address the goal of improving competency about childhood anxiety symptoms and self-regulation techniques, improving their ability to engage in the occupation of caregiver.

Supporting Elementary Educators Through A Nervous System Regulation And Social-Emotional Learning Skills Workshop Intervention: An Musc Capstone Project, Lily Morgan

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

Teachers have a great influence on developing children’s emotional intelligence, regulatory capacity, and occupational engagement. These professionals also happen to report some of the highest rates of stress, mental health challenges (Agyapong, B. et al, 2022), and burnout (Xie, M., et al, 2022). Providing teachers with education and support on nervous system regulation, social-emotional learning skills, and related topics can improve their ability to manage job stress, enhance modeling and interactions with students, and improve their quality of life. This project aimed to enhance knowledge, provide access to resources, and serve to support elementary educators at an inner-city school in …

The Neonatal Care Project: Empowering Parents Through Education And Support, Waverleigh Jenkins

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this capstone project was to develop and provide an informational and evidence-based resource for parents to utilize after discharge from the Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital (SJCH) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). An in-depth needs assessment showed a need for increased parental support and better resources to improve parent mental health outcomes due to feelings of unpreparedness following a NICU stay. To support this goal, and in collaboration with the occupational therapy team at SJCH, two informational websites were created, one in English and the other in Spanish. The website is entitled “The Neonatal Care Project” and contains …

Developing A Scheduling Method For Animal-Assisted Therapy In Acute Rehabilitation, Abbegayle Sutterfield

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) provides meaningful benefits in rehabilitation, including reduced anxiety and improved motivation and physical outcomes (Burres et al, 2016, Denzer-Weiler & Hreha, 2018). However, barriers such as inconsistent scheduling and limited clinician experience hinder implementation in fast-paced healthcare settings. This project took place at a large inpatient acute care hospital where therapy staff sought to integrate AAT more effectively into rehabilitation sessions.

The purpose of this quality improvement project was to develop a sustainable scheduling method to facilitate coordination between therapy staff and volunteer animal-handler teams. Goals included improving interdisciplinary communication, enhancing patient engagement through AAT, and creating …

What About Participation? Using Key Form Mapping To Emphasize Community Participation In Stroke Survivors, Sarah E. Humphrey

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this MUSC Occupational Therapy (OT) Doctoral Capstone project was to determine if stroke survivors demonstrate participation gains resulting from Rasch-derived, patient-spectice practice, i.e., “keyform mapping,” program by evaluation participation at 3 levels. Approximately 50% of stroke survivors have participation restrictions that may impact their engagement with fulfilling, meaningful activities. This is a secondary analysis of data collected from a stroke rehabilitation RCT parent study which tested the effect of a tailored. task-practice program using Rasch-derived keyform map of the individual’s FMA-UE item responses. Participation levels were evaluate by the Activity Card Sort Low-Demand Leisure and Social Acitivites …

Optimizing Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation: An Exploratory Study On The Role Of Electrode Montages And Stimulation Intensity On Reflex Pathway Modulation, Shirin Madarshahian, Michael Trakhtorchuck, Tatiana Guerrero, Kristin Gustafson, James Harrop, Caio Matias, M. J. Mulcahey, Alessandro Naopli, Alex Vaccaro, Mijail Serruya

Farber Institute for Neuroscience Faculty Papers

Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) is a promising non-invasive method to improve motor function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) by enhancing spinal reflex pathways. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different tSCS electrode placement montages and targeted spinal levels on neurophysiological responses such as spinally evoked motor responses (sEMRs), dorsal root reflex activation, and muscle recruitment in individuals with SCI and healthy controls to optimize stimulation strategies for motor recovery. Five participants (three individuals with SCI and two controls) underwent transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation using various electrode montages, target spinal level stimulation, and single- and paired-pulse …

Case Study: Effect Of Stroboscopic Vision Training During A Softball Season, Doug Dendy, C Roger James, Toby Brooks, Micah Lierly, Nolan Riley, Larry Munger

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology Volume 6: Issue 1, Article 3, 2025. This case study examined the effects of stroboscopic vision training during an entire varsity softball season for a 16-year-old female. Stroboscopic vision training uses specialized glasses with crystallized fluid that flickers, intermittently impeding vision, a technique that enhances visual performance. The stroboscopic glasses were worn two to three times a week during hitting and fielding skills. The central hypothesis was that the stroboscopic vision training would enhance softball vision performance. The central hypothesis was tested using these specific aims: 1) batting statistics for a year with no …

Book Review: Neuro-Visual Processing Rehabilitation: An Interdisciplinary Approach, Paul B. Freeman Od

Optometric Clinical Practice

Book review

Creating Educational Curriculum And Fostering Health Promotion For Individuals With Down Syndrome At Gigi’S Playhouse, Allie Hutchinson

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through partnership with GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville. GiGi’s Playhouse is an organization with over 61+ locations across the United States and Mexico with the purpose of offering free, therapeutic and educational programs for individuals with Down Syndrome. The goal of this project was to create appropriate, educational curriculum for participants in GiGi Nashville’s adult education programs focused on self-confidence, skill knowledge, personal wellness, quality of life and a variety of other topics. A secondary focus of this project was to foster health promotion for individuals with Down syndrome through an emphasis on functional fitness. A …

Introduction To Neuropathy: A Foundational Guide To Understanding Neuropathy, Emilie-Grace King

OTD Capstone Projects

This project centers on the development of a deliverable titled Introduction to Neuropathy: A Foundational Guide to Understanding Neuropathy at Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee, a nonprofit organization that provides support to individuals impacted by cancer. The initiative aimed to increase awareness and understanding of peripheral neuropathy—a common and often debilitating side effect of treatments related to cancer and other diagnosis —among club members, including patients, survivors, and caregivers. Through collaboration with clinical professionals, Gilda’s Club staff, and members of Gilda’s Club, educational materials were curated and presented in an accessible format tailored to the needs of a diverse audience. …

Bridging The Gap: Educating Occupational Therapy Students On Services For Medically Complex Children In Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers And Similar Settings, Karleigh Villneuve, Zeida Gutierrez

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this project was to educate entry-level OT students on healthcare and OT services for CMC in PPEC centers and similar facilities through an educational seminar and resources. Educating students about healthcare and OT services for CMC in PPEC centers and similar facilities will hopefully increase interest in pursuing a role in this emerging practice area and increase advocacy efforts for this vulnerable population.

Management Of Sensory Processing Differences To Support Children’S Participation In Church, Sarah Allen

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with the First Presbyterian Church of Nashville (FPCN), with the shared objective of fostering a more inclusive and sensory-friendly environment within its Children’s Ministry. In alignment with FPCN’s mission to nurture young disciples through holistic, age-appropriate faith formation, this project addressed the growing need to accommodate children’s diverse sensory needs. Key outcomes included improved staff confidence as measured through pre- and post-training surveys, the creation of a resource binder on sensory processing, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and concrete changes to curriculum structure and classroom environments to better support …

Combating The Impact Of Adverse Childhood Experiences On Self-Esteem And Emotion Regulation: An Art-Based Intervention Program, Kaileigh Kirk, Cynthia Haynes

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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

Effectiveness Of A Mindfulness Program On Traumatic Upper Extremity Injuries, Chloe M. Greer, Zeida Gutierrez, Julie Ward

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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

Researching Effective Interventions Within Occupational Therapy For Individuals With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Brooklyn Devenny, Zeida Gutierrez, Jen Neuenfeldt

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This research project assessed client and clinician perceptions on the effectiveness of treatment interventions for CRPS. The purpose of this research was to assess the effectiveness of interventions for CRPS as perceived by clinicians and clients to evaluate the impact on client function and overall satisfaction coping with CRPS.

Advocacy For On-Campus Occupational Therapy In College Athletics, Doyle C. Taylor, Keisa Boykin

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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 …

Blind Early Services Tn: An Inclusive Summer Camp, Caroline Mcdermott

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with Blind Early Services Tennessee (BEST), a non-profit organization with the focus on early intervention-based services for children with visual impairments. Currently, BEST serves over 200 families across the state of Tennessee with the following providers; teachers of the visually impaired (TVI), orientation & mobility specialists (O&M), and occupational therapists (OT). The focus of this project was to create BEST’s second annual summer camp, free of charge to participants, with activities specifically catered toward and adapted for children with low vision. Deliverables included a schedule of sensory, motor, and literacy activities, a …

A Guide To Home Modifications Through The Ot Lens, Alexis Pitman

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone was completed through partnership with Westminster Home Connection. Westminster Home Connection is a non-profit agency serving low income adults 60+ or individuals with a disability by providing home repair and modifications to allow individuals to safely live in their home. The primary focus of this project was to create educational materials and bring an OT perspective to the assessment and modification process. Resources provided included a guidebook for home modifications and fall prevention education. Throughout this project I attended and assisted with home assessments, home modification, ramp builds, and declutter projects.

Advocating For Pots; A Misdiagnosed And Underserved Population, Abbey E. Zimmers, Zeida Gutierrez

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a form of dysautonomia that primarily affects the autonomic nervous system, making daily activities such as standing or concentrating difficult due to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and brain fog. It is most common in young women, often triggered by autoimmune diseases, viral infections, or trauma. POTS is under-diagnosed, with healthcare providers often unaware of its full spectrum of symptoms and the role of occupational therapy in managing daily function. Occupational therapy (OT) can significantly improve quality of life by helping patients manage symptoms and regain independence. Raising awareness of POTS and the benefits of …

The Impact Of A Sel-Based School Transition Readiness Program For Fifth Grade Students, Abigail V. Hall, Cynthia Haynes, Trish Chialastri

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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

Assessing Social Media Experiences Of Young Adults And Its Impact On Mental Functions And Daily Routine Performances, Dominique E. Barron, Lakeisa Boykin

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project is a qualitative research study investigating the relationship between social media and the wellbeing of users.

Support Group Development For The Mental Health Of Parents Of Children With Complex Diagnoses, Sarah G. Bonner, Lakesia Boykin, Dana Madalon

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This presentation covers support group program development for the mental health of parents of children with complex diagnoses. It outlines the need for emotional support, describes the group activities used to promote coping and resilience, and explains how the program was implemented and evaluated using pre- and post-surveys.

Exploring The Impact Of Ot On Pain Management & Quality Of Life In Individuals Following Lower Limb Amputation, Fernanda D. Massey, Lakeisa Boykin

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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, …

Advancing Peripartum And Pelvic Health Rehabilitation At Tristar Centennial: Empowering Recovery Through Occupational Therapy, Lilly Martin

OTD Capstone Projects

This capstone project, Advancing Peripartum and Pelvic Health Rehabilitation, was completed through the Peripartum Inpatient Program and Pelvic Health Outpatient Program at TriStar Centennial Medical and focused on empowering recovery through occupational therapy (OT). It addressed needs by revising educational materials, developing videos for at-home recovery, defining OT’s role alongside physical therapy and social work, and improving the OT presentation and packet for peripartum rehabilitation. Deliverables included educational materials, videos, and graphics to boost patient engagement, alongside an OT presentation clarifying interdisciplinary collaboration. Materials were prepared for dissemination to interdisciplinary teams, patients, and families, ensuring alignment with OT’s scope and …

Enhancing Understanding Of Infant Cues And The Role Of Rehabilitative Therapies In The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Lexie Jones

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

Research emphasizes the importance of early rehabilitative therapy involvement in the NICU to improve outcomes for preterm infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the presence of occupational therapy (OT) and speech-language therapy (SLP) services in Level III NICUs to enhance neurodevelopment, promote feeding success, and support interdisciplinary collaboration (AAP, 2020). Cue-based feeding approaches have been linked to improved weight gain, reduced hospital stays, and decreased physiological stress in preterm infants compared to volume-driven approaches (Pados et al., 2020). However, limited staff understanding of infant behavioral cues and the distinct roles of OT and SLP can lead to missed …

Addressing Frailty In Heart Failure: Essential Tools & Strategies For Occupational Therapists, Malachy Clancy, Phd, Otr/L, Bcpr

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Learning Objectives

• Understand and describe the concept of frailty and its impact on occupational performance for patients with heart failure (HF).
• Identify comprehensive assessments that encompass physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains to provide a holistic assessment of frailty.

Ready To Shine: A Framework For Coaching K-12 Educators To Support Diverse Learners, Kathleen Childs, Angela Blackwell, Katie Gebhart

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The Ready to Shine: A Framework for Coaching K-12 Educators to Support Diverse Learners is meant to guide occupational therapy practitioners in training and coaching educators to implement strategies to support students with social-emotional, behavioral, sensory, or other unique needs. Through this framework, practitioners will aim to equip educators with the confidence, self-efficacy, and competence to use tools and/or techniques that promote participation and performance among their students.

An Independent Living Skills Training Guide For Direct Support Professionals Working With People With Intellectual Or Developmental Disabilities, Nigel Yeo, Steven Gerardi Phd, Otd, Mss, Otr

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) serve an important role in assisting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in many aspects of their lives through the provision of care and support. Despite lacking in knowledge and training to support the potentially complex and varied presentation of people with IDD, DSPs are in a position to help their clients address and improve on their independent living skills that are important for autonomy and overall well-being. The capstone project developed the Independent Living Skills Teaching Guide (ILSTG), as a tool for DSPs, containing activity plans related to independent living skills, activity modifications based …

Enhancing Concussion Management: Addressing The Needs Of Student-Athletes, Coaches, And Occupational Therapy Practitioners, Anya Vernon, Lesley Khan-Farooqi, Tyra Lea

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

There are limited educational resources available on concussion management for occupational therapy practitioners, coaches, and student-athletes which can limit access to comprehensive occupational therapy services for clients who have sustained a concussion, ultimately hindering participation in sport and overall wellbeing. The purpose of this capstone was to develop a comprehensive guidebook for coaches and student-athletes and a comprehensive handbook for occupational therapy practitioners to raise awareness in concussion education and clarify occupational therapy's role on a multidisciplinary concussion management team. This project addresses the growing need for concussion education among student-athletes and coaches, improves understanding of concussion signs and symptoms, …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In The Care Of Informal Caregivers Of People With Dementia: A Concept Analysis, Ashley M. Taylor, Steven M. Gerardi, Elizabeth Deluca-Berg

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

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 …