Date of Award

4-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Amanda Brennan, OTRL

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

Occupational therapists (OTPs) have a crucial role in treating pelvic health conditions as toileting is an activity of daily living. However, pelvic health research is primarily focused through a physical therapy lens and doesn’t always address challenges pertaining to children, and even more so neurodivergent youth. Furthermore, there is a gap in the literature in how specifically OTPs can assist in providing pelvic health care to all individuals including neurodivergent youth. The goal of this doctoral capstone was to create and provide educational sessions to educate parents, educators, and BCBAs on the role of pelvic health OT in solving their child’s toileting and bowel and bladder issues. Main objectives of this capstone included developing a better understanding of pelvic health and OT’s role in this field including shadowing and treating pediatric patients and conducting educational presentations focused on pelvic health dysfunction and solutions. Post survey results indicate that parents feel more confident in understanding the role of OT in pelvic health and possible solutions to increase successful toileting outcomes in their children. This project advocates and emphasizes the unique solutions OTPs can provide in the field of pelvic health, specifically for neurodivergent youth.

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