Date of Award

4-2023

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Kathryn Potter

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves

Abstract

Sexuality is a “state of mind that represents how individuals feels about themselves, relate to other people, establish relationships, and express themselves” (AOTA, 2013). Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants have the skill set necessary to address sexuality in practice, however, it is neglected in occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs throughout the United States of America (Lohman et al., 2017). The absence of sexuality in curriculum stems from lack of time, low priority, and various client factors including age, marital status, therapist safety, personal beliefs, and fear of offending the client (Lohman et al., 2017; McGarth & Sakellariou, 2016). Through a review of the literature and discussions with faculty of OTA programs, a need for module content covering sexuality was identified at Western Michigan University and Baker College of Muskegon. This paper describes the completion of a capstone experience at Western Michigan University and Baker College of Muskegon OTA programs focusing on education. Throughout this capstone experience, OTA students were provided with entry-level knowledge to address sexuality with clients in practice.

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