Date of Award

4-30-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Michelle Suarez, PhD, OTRL

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

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 to nutritional deficiencies and developmental challenges. SPD disrupts the brain’s ability to interpret and respond to sensory input, presenting as either over-responsiveness or under-responsiveness (Miller et al., 2007). Various feeding techniques, such as the Just Right Challenge Feeding Protocol, the Food Chaining method (Fraker et al., 2009), and the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) approach (Toomey & Ross, 2011), provide foundational strategies for intervention.

Integrating trauma-informed care and multicultural materials enhances feeding protocols by ensuring they are comprehensive and effective. Trauma-informed practices prioritize safety, trust, and sensitivity in interactions (Bath, 2008), while multicultural approaches foster inclusivity by incorporating diverse cultural backgrounds into interventions (O’Brien & Kuhaneck, 2019). Research underscores the importance of standardized feeding protocols in student-led OT clinics, offering both educational benefits and safe, effective interventions. Case studies highlight the significance of patient-specific assessments, family collaboration, and trauma-informed strategies. However, existing research lacks longitudinal studies and culturally tailored interventions, emphasizing the need for continued investigation to refine feeding protocols and address the unique needs of pediatric patients with sensory challenges.

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