Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Program Development And Implementation Of Adaptive Fishing Program At Western Michigan University Center For Disability Services, Will Harahan

Capstone Projects

Participation in meaningful leisure occupations is an essential component of health, well-being, and quality of life. Unfortunately, individuals with disabilities continue to experience numerous physical, environmental, and social barriers that limit participation in community-based recreational activities. Recreational fishing has emerged as an inclusive outdoor leisure occupation that promotes physical activity, social participation, confidence, and emotional well-being when appropriate adaptations and supports are available. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop, implement, and evaluate an adaptive fishing program for participants enrolled in the Western Michigan University Center for Disability Services (CDS) Skill Building Program. Guided by occupational therapy principles, …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Community-Based Nonprofit Durable Medical Equipment Programs, Coral Mcfern

Capstone Projects

This 14 week doctoral capstone project focused on improving education within a nonprofit durable medical equipment program, Renew Mobility, to enhance safety and independence for individuals using mobility devices. This work is relevant to occupational therapy as it applies OT principles of client-centered care, health literacy, and adaptive equipment training in a community-based setting. A key gap in the literature was identified as the lack of structured educational resources, leading to inconsistent training and reliance on verbal instructions.

The objective of this project was to develop accessible educational materials to support proper equipment use and safety. This resulted in a …

The Intersection Of Occupational Therapy And Optometry In The Treatment Of Visual Impairments: Addressing An Unmet Need, Grace Bannon

Capstone Projects

The prevalence of visual impairments in the United States is substantial and anticipated to increase in severity over the coming decades. These impairments have wide-reaching consequences on an individual’s occupational performance in daily living. While both occupational therapists and optometrists focus on the relationship between visual function and engagement in meaningful and purposeful occupations across the lifespan, only a limited number of optometrists offer specialized vision therapy services. This gap emphasizes a growing demand for vision services to manage the needs of individuals with visual deficits. Therefore, this Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) sought to bridge this gap by exploring the …

Identifying The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Suicide Prevention, Grey Buchheit

Capstone Projects

Occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to identify and support individuals experiencing suicidal ideation; however, suicide prevention education remains limited within occupational therapy curricula despite its relevance across diverse practice settings. This doctoral capstone experience sought to address this educational gap by developing evidence-based suicide prevention resources for Western Michigan University's Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program while promoting student wellness and burnout prevention as complementary components of suicide prevention. Guided by a literature review, SWOT analysis, faculty interviews, and a needs assessment that included a survey of Level I fieldwork educators, this project identified opportunities to strengthen occupational therapy education related …

Supporting Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice For Young Adults: Resource Development For A Level I Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Clinic, Grace Campbell

Capstone Projects

Neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based practices are a growing area of focus within occupational therapy, viewing neurological differences as natural variations of human diversity rather than deficits to be corrected. This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on applying these perspectives within the Work-to-Work Clinic, a Level I occupational therapy fieldwork clinic that serves young adults with neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability. Commonly-used assessments and treatment materials at the clinic were outdated, deficit-focused, and poorly suited to this population’s developmental stage, leaving many clients with unmet needs. Additionally, Level I fieldwork students are still developing clinical reasoning skills and …

Multicultural, Trauma‑Informed Feeding Protocols For Children With Spd In Student‑Led Ot Clinics, Matt Crummel

Capstone Projects

This capstone project aims to develop and implement feeding protocols for children with sensory processing disorders in a student-led occupational therapy clinic, emphasizing trauma-informed care and multicultural practices. By creating evidence-based interventions and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the project seeks to enhance therapeutic outcomes while providing OT students with hands-on learning experiences. OT is a healthcare profession that enhances individuals’ independence in daily activities through personalized interventions targeting physical, sensory, and cognitive skills. Student-led OT clinics offer a valuable learning environment where students work under licensed clinicians to provide therapeutic care.

Sensory processing disorders (SPD) significantly impact feeding behaviors, often leading …

Exploring Lived Experiences And Perceived Quality Of Life In Individuals With Parkinson’S Disease Engaging In Rock Steady Boxing: A Qualitative Study, Emma Norman

Capstone Projects

It is well established that exercise provides numerous benefits to the general population, including improved physical functioning, fall prevention, and better sleep (National Institute on Aging, 2025). For individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease, the benefits of exercise are especially meaningful as exercise plays a key role in managing symptoms. Regular exercise plays a critical role in managing both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, contributing to improved quality of life and independence (Ellis & Rochester, 2018). A group fitness program for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, called Rock Steady Boxing, has demonstrated positive quantitative outcomes, including improved balance, strength, and …

Development Of Purposeful Movement Breaks And Sensory Pathways To Enhance Student Engagement And Participation, Ashlyn Houck

Capstone Projects

Children in school settings frequently spend extended periods seated in classrooms, which can make it difficult to meet their sensory and movement needs throughout the school day. When these needs are unmet, students may demonstrate behaviors that disrupt learning and limit participation in classroom activities. This capstone project addressed the need for sensory and movement opportunities within the school environment. Objectives included establishing a baseline of teacher knowledge related to the sensory systems, implementing movement breaks within daily classroom routines, and introducing sensory opportunities in hallways to support smoother transitions. The project was implemented with second- and third-grade classrooms. Outcomes …

Promoting Maternal Well-Being: Occupational Therapy In Pregnancy And Postpartum, Nora Udrys

Capstone Projects

Navigating pregnancy and the postpartum period can be a complex experience for women. There is a lack of diverse information, accessible resources, and support during this phase of life. Hormonal levels fluctuate not only during pregnancy but after giving birth as well, contributing to significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. Some of these changes may create barriers to meaningful participation in daily occupations, contributing to feelings of isolation, mood disruptions, and decreased overall well-being. Occupational therapy has a unique role in supporting women through pregnancy and postpartum by helping them navigate these transitions through a holistic, client-centered lens. The purpose …

Sexuality And Intimacy: Education On Ot Approach, Abby Stritzinger

Capstone Projects

Providing proper education on sexuality and intimacy is important for increasing comfort when addressing sex and intimacy with individuals in the professional field.  “Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled” (WHO, 2006a). Creating occupational therapists (OTs) that are comfortable addressing this topic is extremely important for the OT profession to continue to maintain its holistic, client-centered …

Expanding Nbcot® Exam Readiness Resources In An Entry-Level Otd Program, Thahiyatul Sarah

Capstone Projects

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT®) exam is a critical requirement for entry-level occupational therapy (OT) practice in the United States; however, many students face challenges in effectively preparing for its clinical reasoning demands. This literature review examines existing research on NBCOT® exam preparation strategies to inform the development of a comprehensive exam content guide and resources tailored for OT graduate students. Existing barriers, including gaps in curriculum alignment, limited access to effective study tools, and high levels of student stress, highlight the need for more structured and accessible preparation methods. By examining key themes such as …

Expanding Access To Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy: Integrating Clinical Application And Program Development, Deanna Rietveld

Capstone Projects

This capstone project explored the role of hippotherapy in occupational therapy through enhanced clinical practice skills as well as supporting program development through community education and funding accumulation for the capstone site organization. Guided by a needs assessment drawn from literature, site mentor input, and other local organizations providing similar services, it was determined that occupational therapy using equine movement provides more impactful results while simultaneously addressing deficits in a variety of areas, but lack of financial resources, community participation, and therapy scholarships threaten the opportunity to expand programs and provide access to individuals who would benefit from services. In …

Practical Exploration Of The Role Of Occupational Therapy In A Nature-Based School Setting, Emma Campbell

Capstone Projects

School-based occupational therapy (OT) plays a critical role in supporting children’s participation, development, and engagement in educational environments. However, non-traditional school settings often lack therapeutic supports, such as OT services. The purpose of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) is to explore and expand the role of occupational therapy within a non-traditional academic setting, specifically a nature-based preschool program. Sunflower Farm’s preschool program provides a unique learning environment that supports children’s development through farm-based learning. While this setting offers rich opportunities for exploration and growth, additional supports are needed to facilitate students’ sensory processing, self-regulation, and participation.

The objectives of this …

From Browsing To Building: Navigating Your Google Resource Space (Drive & Site), Libby Cunningham

Capstone Projects

This capstone project aimed to develop a trauma-informed, evidence-based support hub for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) working with children involved in the foster care system. CASA advocates are frequently exposed to secondary trauma, burnout, and compassion fatigue, which can impact their effectiveness and overall well-being. Additionally, trauma exposure significantly affects children’s emotional regulation, behavior, and participation in daily occupations. The primary objective of this project was to design, develop, and organize a comprehensive digital resource platform tailored to the needs of Kalamazoo CASA and their active cases. Utilizing evidence-based literature on trauma-informed care and secondary trauma, relevant resources were …

The Missing Link Between Occupational Therapy And Hemodialysis: Program Development And Implementing Intradialytic Ot In A Rural Hospital Setting, Madison Maki

Capstone Projects

Occupational therapy (OT) has demonstrated effectiveness in supporting individuals undergoing hemodialysis, a life‑altering yet lifesaving treatment for end‑stage renal disease (ESRD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite this, hospitalized patients who require dialysis often receive reduced rehabilitation services due to the time‑intensive nature of dialysis and the productivity demands placed on therapists. Additionally, gaps in therapist knowledge regarding the unique functional deficits and educational needs of this population further limit service delivery.

This doctoral capstone project (DCE), conducted at Upper Peninsula Health System (UPHS), a hospital in rural Northern Michigan, addressed these barriers through the development of a comprehensive resource …

Development Of 6-Week Tier 2 Intervention Tracks Within An Elementary Mtss Framework, Maxwell Lyle

Capstone Projects

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is designed to provide levels of support with differing intensity that align with student needs. Tier 1 is universal instruction provided to all students in the classroom. Students who do not demonstrate adequate progress may receive Tier 2 interventions, which are primarily small-group and, when appropriate, individual interventions that are skill-specific, time-bound (6–8 weeks), and include progress monitoring. Students who do not respond to Tier 2 may require Tier 3 supports, which are intensive, individualized interventions. Many school systems lack consistent, structured Tier 2 supports, particularly in Occupational Therapy-related skills, such as fine motor …

Development Of Resources To Support Independence In And Access To Nature-Based Activities, Riley Carpender

Capstone Projects

This capstone paper discusses the need for resources that support independence in and access to nature-based activities that support health and wellbeing. Occupational therapists (OTs) have expertise in recommending and implementing adaptations to increase individuals’ engagement in nature-based activities. There is currently a gap in the literature regarding access to nature-based activities, and a lack of understanding of how these activities may be implemented, either by caregivers, educators or healthcare professionals. During my capstone I created a guide with modifications for gardening activities for children, wrote an article on how to adapt nature journaling to be more accessible, coded and …

Exploring Occupational Therapy’S Role In Addressing Mental Health Disparities And Emergency Service Utilization Among Homeless Populations: A Comprehensive Review, Megan Darnell

Capstone Projects

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession focused on enabling individuals to engage in meaningful activities and roles through a client-centered approach. This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed in the Emergency Department (ED) at Bronson Methodist Hospital, where individuals experiencing homelessness frequently present with unmet mental health needs. A gap was identified in the accessibility and utilization of community-based mental health and social resources, contributing to repeated ED utilization. The purpose of this DCE was to examine how resource provisions impact the frequency of ED visits and engagement with community mental health services among this population. Objectives include developing …

Advocating For Occupational Therapy Services In Adult Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinics: Enhancing Interprofessional Collaborative Care, Hannah Peyerk

Capstone Projects

The topic of this capstone project is to define occupational therapy’s (OT) role at an adult outpatient physical therapy (PT) clinic. The project focuses on advocacy and education related to OT’s scope of practice and role on an outpatient interdisciplinary team. Literature suggests that healthcare professionals have limited understanding of OT’s specific roles on the rehabilitation team. This can impact referrals and involvement of OT in interprofessional collaboration. The best way to advocate and educate about OT’s role is by active collaboration with other healthcare professionals. This project takes place at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy (Ortonville), an outpatient PT clinic …

Role Of Occupational Therapy In Hippotherapy And Therapeutic Riding: A Mental Health Perspective, Ava Morrison

Capstone Projects

The purpose of my doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to gain knowledge about the unique role that occupational therapy (OT) plays in equine-assisted therapy at the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center, with an emphasis on Therapeutic Riding. Equine-assisted therapy, including hippotherapy and therapeutic riding, is an emerging area of occupational therapy practice that promotes physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being through structured interactions with horses. Despite growing evidence supporting the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted interventions, confusion remains regarding the distinctions between hippotherapy and therapeutic riding, highlighting the need for increased education and advocacy within the field. In addition, there is a …

Education To Increase Students’ Knowledge, Perceptions, And Interest In Occupational Therapy, Brooke Hineman

Capstone Projects

In response to the declining program fill rates across all levels of occupational therapy (OT) education, this Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) aimed to promote the field through development of informational resources and delivery of educational sessions for high school and undergraduate students. The primary objective was to foster deeper understanding, accurate perceptions, and career interest among participants. A thorough literature review and needs assessment exploring current OT knowledge, promotion efforts, student characteristics, and underrepresented groups revealed a need for intentional education to address gaps in student knowledge regarding the field of OT among all students, especially those without exposure to …

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 …

Refreshing Recess: An Every Moment Counts Initiative For Engaging Recess Participation, Paige Kuhn

Capstone Projects

Research supports the role of occupational therapy (OT) in school-based mental health promotion and the use of occupation-based interventions to enhance student participation, social-emotional learning, and self-regulation. However, there is limited evidence on the implementation of Every Moment Counts (EMC): Refreshing Recess in elementary school settings, particularly when adapted to real-world contexts. The focus of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to address this gap through the development and implementation of an adapted recess-based program at Douglas Elementary School in Douglas, Michigan.

This project involved implementing a six-week Refreshing Recess program designed to promote inclusive play, peer interaction, and emotional …

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, …

Promoting Mental Wellness And A Calm Learning Environment In A 2nd Grade Classroom, Grace Tone

Capstone Projects

Promoting mental wellness and implementing cognitive behavioral strategies brings awareness to staff and students and helps to promote a calm learning environment. School-based occupational therapists support students to participate in school occupations that they may be struggling with and provide them with cognitive behavioral strategies to regulate their emotions. The ACOTE concentration area for this capstone included education to staff members on the impact of mental wellness on student participation in school occupations and education on the Calm Moment Cards program from Every Moment Counts. The second ACOTE concentration area for this capstone was program development for sustainability of the …

Advancing Hand Therapy Practice Through Specialized Clinical Reasoning And Patient Education, Candace Heinlein

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals Hand Therapy Clinic and focused on two ACOTE concentration areas including advanced clinical practice skills and education. The experience combined hands-on clinical practice in a specialized outpatient hand therapy setting with the development of high-quality client education materials and home exercise programs (HEPs). Objectives were created to address identified needs through the creation of client education handouts, development of diagnosis-specific Medbridge HEP templates, and creation of training resources to improve therapist efficiency with Medbridge use. Outcomes of the project included improved access to evidence-based educational materials, reduced …

The Importance Of Holistic Care: The Development And Implementation Of Spiritual Resources For Caregivers And Staff At Joni’S House El Salvador, Chloe Veilleux

Capstone Projects

It is within the occupational therapy (OT) scope of practice to not only address client needs related to mind, body, and spirit, but also those of caregivers as a means of fostering overall improved quality of life. Additionally, when OTs address spirituality and implement spiritual/spirituality-informed interventions, correlations of improved psychosocial factors such as well-being, motivation, and reduced stress have been shown, as well as improved hope and reduced burden for caregivers. There remains, however, a gap in the research and implementation of spiritually informed care and resources specifically as it pertains to caregivers of those with disabilities. To address this …

Bridging The Gap: A Trauma-Informed Approach To Real-Time Counselor Support Training At Kesem, Elizabeth Fallon

Capstone Projects

This capstone project involved the development and implementation of a trauma-informed care training program for college-aged counselors within Kesem, a nonprofit organization supporting children affected by a parent or caregiver’s cancer. The project addressed gaps in existing counselor training related to recognizing and responding to trauma in real time. The literature identified increased risk for psychosocial challenges in this population, including anxiety, depression, as well as the importance of peer support, safe environments, and developmentally appropriate communication.

The training program included different modules on trauma, grief, and child development, as well as interactive role-play scenarios tailored to different age groups …

From Theory To Practice: Splint Fabrication Through Occupational Therapy Video Library, Caitlyn Mccaughey

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) highlights the need for educational resources on occupational therapy splint fabrication by producing a comprehensive video library to aid skill acquisition among students and new graduates. This project involved developing 21 tutorial videos featuring detailed, step-by-step demonstrations designed to accommodate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles amongst individuals. A literature review emphasized the growing popularity of video-based education and the lack of accessible, high-quality splinting resources, with a needs assessment revealing low confidence levels among occupational therapy students due to limited educational support. Through collaboration and integration of evidence-based practices, this project successfully produced an …

Creation And Implementation Of Nature And Sensory Based Therapy Programming To Support The Health And Well-Being Of Catholic Dominican Sisters, Sydney Payne

Capstone Projects

As the older generation ages, diseases such as dementia can cause sensory processing systems to be less efficient. When they become less efficient, it can create confusion and undermine one’s sense of safety (Champagne, 2018 pg 29-30). Engaging in sensory experiences provides support for these deficits while fostering participation in everyday life activities (Champagne, 2018 pg 30). This capstone project included a sensory garden (nature-based therapy) and associated multi-sensory activities. This was done through creation of nature and sensory-based programming, implementation of this programming one-on-one with sisters, two group sensory, dementia-friendly activities, and formation of a sustainability binder. Occupational therapy …