Date of Award

4-2025

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Katherine Mesko, DrOT, OTR/L

Second Advisor

Alette Huisman, MSOT, OTR/L

Third Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

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 for education surrounding this topic, as most healthcare professionals experience these conditions but are unaware of prevention methods. At the conclusion of this doctoral capstone experience, enhanced clinical practice skills were developed through hands-on learning with trauma-responsive and sensory integration experts, and both objective and subjective improvements were observed in the occupational therapists who participated in the developed program. Personal and organizational action steps have been taken to sustain the knowledge and skills gained within both concentration areas. Further research is necessary to continue dissemination of trauma-responsive methods of care, and to protect the health and well-being of healthcare professionals.

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