Date of Award

4-17-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Susan Frisbie-Yu, OTD, OTRL

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

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 Health Special Interest Section (MHSIS). The result of the DCE and objectives included (1) updates to the MHSIS webpage and the creation of four educational resources highlighting OTs role in mental health across the lifespan, (2) two virtual MHSIS webinars organized to support understanding of OTs role in mental health, and (3) the analysis of barriers to understanding of OTs role in mental health. The results of the DCE contributed to the MHSIS's advocacy efforts to support OT presence in mental health and increase access to mental health OT services.

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