Date of Award

4-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Angie Santangelo, MSW, LISW-S

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) explored the role of occupational therapy in promoting the use of creative art-based interventions to address body image in cancer survivors and caregivers. Within the oncology population, body image concerns are a prevalent psychosocial factor that affects survivors’ self-perception, emotional well-being, and occupational engagement in their daily lives. To address this gap, a six-week program was developed to promote art as a meaningful occupation to support the psychosocial well-being related to body image in cancer survivors and caregivers. Additional initiatives of the program included resource development and integration of education on current literature on the topics of body image, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches to support adaptive coping throughout the healing journey. Program outcomes demonstrated improvements in psychosocial well-being, self-expression, and ongoing participation in weekly art activities. These outcomes support the role of occupational therapy in providing a holistic and occupation-based approach within the oncology population.

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