Friday “Early Bird” Sessions from 7:30 AM 8:20 AM “Early Bird” Sessions from 7:30 AM ... CAPS, CAASH, CGR, CGP, CR, LDST ... The purposes of this project are to identify challenges

POTA 2017 Annual Conference – Change: Create the Opportunity page 1

6-7, 2017 State College, PA

Friday “Early Bird” Sessions from 7:30 AM – 8:20 AM

P.O.P. – An Intervention Approach for Early Handwriting

Leslie E. Lewis, OTR/L

This session presents a nine-week model of therapist-teacher driven collaboration of strategies for

approach in the classroom using varied components of traditional and progressive handwriting programs

to create a unique intervention to address specific areas of need for a school district.

50 minute session Children & Youth

Which Assessments are Primarily Used in OT?

Lorie Rowles, OTD, OTR/L, Allysa Marshall, OTR/L

This session will help practitioners identify which types of assessments are being used most often in the

clinical setting, the rationale for use, limitations for use, and how assessments relate to everyday.

50 minute session Education &Fieldwork

The Role of Occupational Therapy at the Breastfeeding Resource Center

Lauren Sponseller, OTD, OTR/L, M.Ed, Caitlyn Foy, OTD, OTR/L

The purpose of this session is to educate professionals on the role of occupational therapy with

breastfeeding mothers. Content focuses on the education and interventions provided to support the health

and wellness of mother and infant.

50 minute session Emerging Practice

Friday Posters from 10:30 AM – 12:20 PM

Exploring Clinical Reasoning for Trauma and SPD

Christine Achenbach, MEd, OTR/L, Adriana Bertolino, OTS, Shannon Deck, OTS, Kathleen Wilkinson,

OTS

This qualitative study captures one expert pediatric therapist’s clinical reasoning during her treatment of a

child with the comorbidity of sensory processing disorder (SPD) and disorders of trauma and attachment

(DTA) applying both trauma-informed care and sensory interventions.

Poster Children & Youth



Current Effective Treatment Strategies for TBI

Kelly Adams, OTS, Sabrina Bell, OTS, Kristen Houser, OTS, Shayna Mohr, OTS, Catherine Emenheiser,

PhD, OTR/L

Research was conducted to determine current effective treatment strategies for improving participation

during meaningful occupations for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Four occupational

therapy intervention strategies were investigated to determine if one is most beneficial for treatment of

TBI.

Poster Rehab & Disability

Impact of Smart Home Technology on Living in Place

Monique Chabot, OTD, OTR/L, CLIPP, CAPS, Sabrena McCarley, MBA-SL, OTR/L, CLIPP, RAC-CT,

Laurie Davis, OTS, Haley Kaufmann, OTS, Louie Delaware, MBA, BSME, CLIPP, ACPC, Erik Listou,

CLIPP, CAPS, CAASH, CGR, CGP, CR, LDST

As smart home technology becomes more prevalent, it has applications for helping people live in place.

This literature review aims to highlight the potential of these items in the homes of all individuals to

support their independence.

Poster Productive Aging

Keeping the Spirit: Dementia and Spiritual Care

Brooke Chaney, BA, OTS, Savanna Major, BS, OTS, Sharon D. Novalis, PhD, OTR/L

Approximately 9 million people in the United States live with some type of dementia. As the numbers

continue to grow, occupational therapists are challenged to provide holistic practice and address the

spiritual needs of patients with dementia.

Poster Health & Wellness

Theater and Substance Use Disorders

Mika Derynioski, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, EdD, OTR/L

This poster reviews the literature and provides an evidence-based assessment on the use of theater-based

interventions in occupational therapy specifically to treat individuals with substance use disorders (SUD)

Poster General

Children with Down Syndromes Sports Participation

Derek Drasba, OTS, Hannah Narvacan, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, EdD, OTR/L



This poster presents the rationale for the development of a collaborative program to ensure the readiness

for children with Down syndrome to be able to participate in competitive sports, such as the Special

Olympics.


Parent Initiated Functional Feeding Goals

Jessica Gass, OTS, Angela R. Caldwell, PhD, OTR/L, CLT

Supporting healthy dietary variety early in life is important. Family initiated child goals (n=18) for

treatment fell into the categories of dietary variety and mealtime behavior. Parent goals were also created

to support generalization of skills to the home.


Unity is Strength: Effective Global Partnerships

Anne Marie Hansen, EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Jaime Munoz, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Clara Altemus, OTS,

Quinn Tattersall, OTS, Nikki Yeckel, OTS

This study directly addresses the Centennial Vision of global connectedness. Challenges African

practitioners face collaborating with OTs from the global north are revealed. Results highlight African

voices sharing recommendations for innovative and sustainable global partnerships.

Poster Emerging Practice

Increasing Older Adult Activity Engagement: Using the ACL as a Guide

Linda Harris MS, OTR/L

Utilizing the ACLS and Dunn’s Theory of Sensory Processing can enable the practitioner to gain insight

on selecting the best fit activity to engage someone with a cognitive impairment. The activity and sensory

guide as outlined by Champagne and Schubmehl (2002) is a valuable resource in selecting activities,

which can engage the person in a purposeful goal directed occupation.


Spinal Cord Injuries and Brian Machine Interfaces

Ashley Hill OTS, Gianna Delerme OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, Ed.D., OTR/L

This poster presents an evidence based approach to incorporating brain machine interfaces to restore

functional movement and sensation in persons living with spinal cord injury, which has historically been

thought to result in irreversible and life-altering challenges.




Initiative for Vision Impairment Screening

Tami Levengood, OTD, OTR/L, MSCS

The impact of vision impairment on occupational performance is well documented. Resources on how to

screen for vision impairment are not as plentiful. This poster describes an initiative to educate staff on

how to complete vision screenings.


Strategies for Children with Autism Transitioning

Erin Mannion, OTS, Stephanie Cillo, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, Ed.D, OTR/L

The purposes of this project are to identify challenges that children with ASD face during the transition

from pre-school to kindergarten, as well as identifying which transition strategies are most effective.


3D & OT

Emily Meltzer, OTS, Stephen B. Kern, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

This poster presentation will summarize the basics of three-dimensional (3D) printing and explain why

having a basic understanding of the 3D printing process will enhance the credibility of practitioners and

students as the profession moves further into the technology age.


Surfing and Veterans with PTSD

Alexandra Miranda, OTS, Collen Faede, OTS, Marlene Morgan, EdD, OTR/L

This poster explores the comparison between techniques and outcomes of traditional interventions to

surfing interventions in reducing PTSD symptoms in veterans. Further research is needed to solidify the

effects of surfing therapy as a continuation of therapeutic technique.

Poster Mental Health

Young stroke patients: Is treatment meaningful?

Kathryn Mowers, OTS, Emily Jensen, OTS, Catherine Emenheiser, PhD, OTR/L

The purpose of this study is to determine if traditional stroke interventions are appropriate for younger

patients. Younger patients have different needs which current practice may not address. Further research

is necessary for appropriate rehabilitation of this patient population.




Development and Evaluation of an Occupational Therapy Doctorate Student Manual for the

Experiential Component: Systematic Methods and Outcomes

Lydia Navarro-Walker, OTD, OTR/L, CLA ,Tina De Angelis, EdD, OTR/L, Catherine Piersol, PhD,

OTR/L, FAOTA

A theory-driven Manual for the OT experiential component will be described. Reviewed by experts

(Modified Delphi Technique), the manual can be used to prepare the OTD student with essential

processes and procedures necessary for successful implementation of the experiential component.

Poster Education & Fieldwork

Virtual Reality and Myoelectric Prosthesis Deana Riccio, OTS, Sophie Sabatell, OTS, Christopher Bollinger, OTR/L

This poster reports on an evidence based project that explored the feasibility of incorporating virtual

reality as a vital tool in promoting successful outcomes for individuals preparing to utilize a myoelectric

prosthesis.


Successful Strategies to Promote Caregiver Carryover

Ellen Rosenberg, MS, OTR/L, Diane Heil, OTS, Amy Carroll, OTD, OTR/L, E. Adel Herge, OTD,

OTR/L, FAOTA

This poster illustrates using a data driven decision making process to systematically apply the cognitive

disabilities model to improve caregiver satisfaction in a long-term care facility. The efficacy of using

systematic approaches when training caregivers will be illustrated.


OT and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Jessica Sorge, OTR/L, Malinda Pastor, OTR/L, CPAM

Providing treatment to clients on life supporting devices such as ECMO can be intimidating. Uses and

goals of ECMO as well as the role/importance of OT intervention with clients receiving ECMO therapy

will be discussed including splinting, positioning, cognition and mobility.


Flow Rates of Dr. Brown’s Options Bottle System

Deirdre Stevens, OTS, Jacqueline Cormier, OTS, Katie Kelly, OTS, Ashley Salerno, OTS, Kaitlyn

Smalley, OTS, Kimberly Kubistek, OTD, OTR/L



This project aimed to evaluate and determine implications of nectar thickened liquids on the flow rates

through the Dr. Brown's Options bottle, using the Y-cut and Levels 2, 3 and 4 nipples, with and without

the ventilation system.


Telehealth: Can You Hear Me Now?

Megan Swaney, OTS, Elise Augustine, OTS, Katie Uhring, OTS, Dana White, OTS, Joyce Salls, OTD,

OTR/L

This presentation will provide occupational therapy practitioners with best evidence on the efficacy of

telehealth as a service delivery model. Content will include factors promoting implementation of

telehealth services, outcomes of telehealth services in pediatrics, and implications for OT practice.


The Efficacy of Optical & Non-Optical Devices

Alexa Winchel, OTS, Mackenzie Thompson, OTS, Julie Ann Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV,

FAOTA, Chandra Dombroski, DPT

This evidence based research project examines the efficacy of optical and non-optical low vision devices.

Although current research supports more congruently non-optical devices, it is important to note that

research also supports the preferred use of optical devices due to financial and simplistic considerations.

Poster Research

Occupational Therapy Students’ Stigmatizing Beliefs about Individuals with Schizophrenia

Christine Linkie, MS, OTR/L, Dhanvi Amin, OTS, Claudia Anukam, OTS, Jennifer Cobler, OTS, Lauren

Dillon, OTS, Megan Theuerkauf, OTS

This quantitative cross-sectional study assessed OT student attitudes toward people with mental illness

(MI). Attitudes improved overall during the 5-year OT program; however, no significant differences were

found for some attitude factors, e.g., blame. MI stigma must be addressed in OT training.


Friday Sessions beginning at 10:30 AM

Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain: An OT Approach

Ashley Binkowski MS, OTR/L

Participants will gain an understanding of the complex nature and debilitating aspects of amplified

musculoskeletal pain in the adolescent population. This session will teach how to treat these patients



using desensitization, functional activities, and exercise. This unique treatment approach has a greater

than 90% success rate without the use of medication.

1 hour, 50 minute session Children & Youth

Born Addicted: A Rehab Model for NAS

Carissa Snelling MS, OTR/L, BCP

Occupational therapy has an enhanced value and distinct role in meeting the needs of both the parent

experiencing addiction and the infant diagnosed with NAS. This program will describe an In-Patient

Pediatric Rehabilitation Model specifically designed to address NAS.

1 hour, 50 minute session Children &and Youth

Developing a Student Run Pro Bono Clinic

Wendy Wachter-Shutz, OTD, OTR/L, Bridget Trivinia, MS, OTD, OTR/L

An interprofessional OT/PT collaboration within a student run pro-bono clinic provides the context for

developing a clinic/curriculum to promote higher level skill proficiency through real life client

experiences.

1 hour, 50 minute session Education & Fieldwork

Early Occupation Based Intervention in ICU Setting

Sara Clements, MOT, OTR/L, Dan Evans, PT, DPT, Ariana Amato, OTS

This program showcases OT-specific roles for early intervention of critically ill patients in an ICU,

objective measures to identify progress of daily participation, and assessments used to identify common

cognitive and functional deficits.


How to Build your OT Brand as a Professional

Elizabeth Deiuliis, OTD, OTR/L, Samantha D. Bowen, B.S., OTS

The field of professional branding and career documentation is changing dramatically. It is vital for

occupational therapy students and seasoned practitioners to understand current market demands and

conditions to remain competitive in current and future job markets.

50 minute session General



Expanding Our Role in Wellness Through Role Emerging Fieldwork

Andrea Tyszka, MS, OTR/L, SIPT, Brianna Brim, MOT, OTR/L, CPAMS

This short course focuses on building and sustaining role-emerging community based wellness fieldwork

placements. It will include a review of wellness program development, red-flag indicators for

sustainability challenges, as well as practical strategies to overcome them.

50 minute session Education & Fieldwork

Conversations with Commissions

Ellen McLaughlin, Ed.D,OTR/L, Michelle Marshina, OTD, OTR/L

What topics related to OT Education and Practice are on your mind? This informal discussion session is

an opportunity to share your ideas and interests with POTA’s Education and Practice Commission Chairs

(same session available on both Friday and Saturday).


Transportation Interventions and Participation

Elizabeth Pfeiffer, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, FAOTA

The purpose of this presentation is to discuss barriers to transportation and the impact on community

inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. Research and transportation training programs

are examined to elucidate the role of occupational therapists in addressing transportation barriers.


Friday Sessions beginning at 11:30 AM

The Use of Nintendo Wii in Falls Prevention

Kaitlyn Jones, OTS, Miranda Capezzuto, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, Ed.D., OTR/L

This presentation explores the efficacy of the Nintendo Wii as a non-traditional modality in falls

prevention interventions that address aspects of falls, specifically lower extremity strength, dynamic

balance and fear of falling.

50 minute session Productive Aging



Student Designed Fieldwork Activity Kits That Promote Occupation-based Activities in All

Treatment Settings

Patricia A. Wisniewski, MS, OTR/L, CPRP, Courtney Lancia, MS, OTR/L

Occupations are the hallmark of occupational therapy practice. Fieldwork Activity Kits contain at least 20

occupation-based activities that can be easily adapted to address individualized needs in a variety of

treatment settings. Each activity costs no more than $1.

50 minute session Rehab & Disability

Occupation-Based Coaching for Truck Drivers: Pilot

Emily Good, B.S., MOTS, OTR/L, Jaime Deisher, B.S., MOTS, Rachel Sassaman, B.S., MOTS

This presentation describes a pilot study conducted to test the effectiveness of an occupation-based

coaching program, delivered by telephone, for commercial truck drivers on improving overall health and

life on the road.

50 minute session Health & Wellness

Challenge Yourself: Creating a Conference Proposal with Confidence

Michelle Baun, OTR/L, Susan E. Connor, OTD, OTR/L, CCHP, Daniel Fichter, OTD, OTR/L, Traci A

Herc, MOT,OTR/L, Lynne Huber, OTD, OTR/L

Have you ever attended a session and thought “I can do this” but weren’t sure how to create a conference

proposal? Learn strategies from previous presenters for developing an effective proposal and take the next

step toward presenting at conference.

50 Minute Session General

Interoception: Innovative Intervention Protocol for Children with Autism

Adam Amspacher, MOTS, Alyssa Rea, MOTS, Elisabeth Niehaus, MOTS, Kelly Mahler, OTR/L, Sue

West, OTR/L

This presentation will share research where OT was used to design and implement an innovative

intervention protocol for school-aged children with autism spectrum disorder. The protocol is designed to

raise interoceptive awareness, which may influence emotional regulation and school performance.

50 minute session Research

Friday Posters from 3:00 – 4:50 PM

Role of OT with a Total Artificial Heart

Malachy Clancy, MOT, OTR/L, Teresa Melick, MOT, OTR/L, CBIS



Total Artificial Hearts (TAH) function as complete cardiac replacement therapy. This poster will describe

in a case study format the evaluation and treatment of a TAH Patient.


Development of a Concussion Pathway in Acute Care

Katharine Bell, MS, OTR/L, Alisha Unternahrer, MS, OTR/L

Development of a clinical practice guideline for the concussion population in an inpatient acute care

setting includes evidence based measures to determine the presence of concussion symptoms with the

goal to make appropriate referrals within the continuum of care.


Better Together: New Guidelines for Children’s Screen Media Sarah D’Antonio, OTS, Kathryn Dodds, OTS, Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations and current research on screen media use by

young children underscore the importance of time limits and inclusion of adult-child interaction. Learn

evidence-based recommendations to make screen time a beneficial experience for young children.


An Agricultural and Horticultural Transportation Vocation Program for Adolescents with Special

Needs

Jennifer Dessoye, OTD, OTR/L , Alyssa Auer, OTS, Fallon Cooper, OTS, Meghan Digerolamo, OTS,

Quinn Fohlinger, OTS, Allison Hausman, OTS, Erin Huff, OTS

OTs play a pivotal role in school-based transition teams for adolescents with special needs. The use of

agricultural, horticultural & animal-assisted interventions in vocational transition programs develop

needed skills for adolescents with special needs as they transition into the workforce.


The Impact of Sensory Processing on Family Routines

Alli Doughton, OTS, Rebecca Roth, OTS, Audrey Barrett, OTS, Nancy Carlson-Steadman, Ph. D.,

OTR/L

This poster presentation will provide occupational therapy practitioners with information on sensory

processing and its influence on families’ daily routines. We will highlight the unique perspectives from

parents of children who exhibit sensory-related behaviors in their daily lives.


Understanding Post-Stroke Home Programs

Lauren Ducey, OTS, Valerie Palermo, OTS, Elena Donoso Brown, PhD, OTR/L



This qualitative study describes occupational therapists’ perspectives on home program implementation

for persons post-stroke and outlines findings in the areas of home program creation and progression,

incorporating technology into home programs, and strategies to support adherence.


Music and Adherence in Home Program Post-Stroke

Joanna Eskander, OTS, Lauren Matthews, Elena Donoso Brown, PhD, OTR/L, Sarah Wallace, PhD

The purpose of this pilot study was to measure the quantity of practice within, and adherence to, an upper

extremity (UE) home program with and without music designed for people post-stroke.


Efficacy of Occupation-Based Robotic Interventions

Caitlyn Gibbons, OTS, Lauren Armenti, OTS, Verna Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L

This poster presentation describes the evidence based research project that addressed the following

clinical question: Can the Use of Robotic Mobility Devices and Occupation-based Interventions Improve

the Rehabilitation Process in Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries?


Partnering with Community Programs to Support Inclusion

Janelle Hottel, OTS, Fern Silverman, EdD, OTR/L

This poster describes the value of staff education regarding sensory processing when initiating a

partnership at a museum. Pre- and post data revealed that new knowledge gained among staff increased

their comfort level when interacting with visitors with sensory needs.


OT Intervention for Patient with ODS

Jessica Kasper, OTS, Shannon Marriner, PT, DPT, NCS, MBA

Osmotic demyelization syndrome is a life-threatening condition that can cause significant functional and

cognitive impairment and hinder independence with daily tasks. This poster will outline the pathology,

OT treatment interventions, outcomes, and clinical implications for a patient with ODS.


An Innovative Approach to Measuring Sensory Processing Patterns



Mikayla Kemmerly, OTS, Katelyn Guilfoy, OTS, Carly Mutter, OTS, Nancy Carlson Steadman, PhD,

OTR/L

This research presents an interdisciplinary tool called the Brain-Body Center Sensory Scales to measure

differences in sensory patterns among both clinical and typical pediatric populations.


Assessing Home Modification Services in Lancaster County, PA

Linda Leimbach, ScD, OTR/L, CAPS, Kristin Hall, MS, OTR/L, CAPS, Stephanie Antonik, OTS,

Jacalyn Hikes, OTS, Sarah Inglis, OTS

Evidence shows that home modifications are an effective fall prevention strategy within the growing

elderly population. This needs assessment provided insight into service providers’ perspectives of the

issues surrounding home modification services in Lancaster County, PA.


Multisource Feedback and Student Performance

Sheila Moyle MOT, OTR/L

A multisource feedback protocol can provide a supportive learning environment for fieldwork students to

improve performance and enhance fieldwork education. Our profession continues to be evidenced-based

by facilitating growth of fieldwork educators and students collaborating together for success.


Occupation-Based Return to Work Model for Oncology

Alexandra Mueller, OTS, Mia Stanvitch, OTS, Megan McCarthy, MS, OTR/L

Minimal research is reported on clients living with cancer and occupational therapy services. This

evidence-based project proposes developing or adopting an occupation based model to help individuals

living with cancer return to work.


Promoting Occupational Therapy’s Role in Self-Regulation When Co-treating

Jenna Napier, OTS, Andrea Tyszka MS, OTR/L, SIPT

Interprofessional collaboration can be a key component in providing holistic client-centered intervention.

This poster demonstrates how an OT led in-service increased SLP’s comfort level in addressing sensory

needs and decreased perceived barriers to co-treating in an outpatient pediatric clinic.




OT’s Role in Addressing the Substance Use Epidemic

Maria Scanlon BS, OTS, Jesse Hinkle BA, OTS, Sylvia McCauley BA, OTS, Jessica Moritz BA, OTS,

Amy Mattila MBA, MS, OTR/L

The substance use epidemic is increasing at an alarming rate. Screening, brief intervention, and referral to

treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence-based intervention occupational therapists can utilize in addressing this

issue.


Body Image and Sexuality in Women with SCI

Gianna Schmidt, OTS, Jenna Snyder, OTS, Kara Fahey, OTS, Brian Comly, MS, OTR/L, Marlene Joy

Morgan, EdD, OTR/L

This poster presents an evidence-based project that investigated issues related to body image and

sexuality in women with acquired spinal cord injuries. Literature suggests there is a relationship between

the two. The PLISSIT model may be utilized to guide interventions.


COOPerate to Rejuvenate Occupation after Stroke

Lorie Spires, OTS, Amanda Durham, OTS Alyssa Hollibaugh, OTS, Paul Ryan, OTS, Jodi Schreiber,

OTD, OTR/L, C/NDT

The projected number of individuals surviving stroke will more than double between 2010- 2050. Recent

evidence suggests the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach may

be successfully used during rehabilitation of physical deficits adults experience from stroke.


Supporting Neurodiverse Students in Post-Secondary Education

Amy Thomas, OTD, OTR/L

This review identified a variety of academic and non-academic accommodations available to post-

secondary students who self-identify as neurodiverse. Faculty and student perspectives regarding

effectiveness of supports were explored, and implications for occupational therapy practice highlighted.


The Efficacy of Compression Garments vs. Wrapping

Kristen Truskowski, OTS, Courtney Westermann, OTS, Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV,

FAOTA



The purpose of this review was to determine the effectiveness of compression garments compared to

compression wraps in women with breast cancer related lymphedema.

Poster Research

Keeping Up with the KELS

Alexandria Vinelli, OTS, Madison Ihrke, OTS, Meghan O'Hara, OTS, Melissa Wawrzyniak, OTS, Jodi

Schreiber, OTD, OTR/L, C/NDT

The population of adults aged 65 and older is expected to reach 83.7 million by 2050. Many older adults

want to remain living independently in their homes. Can the updated KELS (2016) inform OTs about

safety and independence compared to previous versions?


Decreasing Caregiver Burden through Community Based Interventions

Jessica Vitale, OTS, Lauren Preston, OTS, Jodi Schreiber, OTD, OTR/L, C/NDT

This poster presentation examines the effectiveness of community-based interventions when treating

caregiver burden of caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). Direct

education, coping strategies, and training modules were effective media used to decrease caregiver

burden.


Trauma-Informed Care: A Model for OT Practice

Stephanie Weir, OTS, John Boharic, OTS, Madison Haswell, OTS, Nicole Haynes, OTS, Amy Mattila,

MBA, MS, OTR/L

Nationwide, over half of the population has experienced one traumatic event in their lifetime. Research

shows that using Trauma-Informed Care in practice leads to better health outcomes. Occupational therapy

can use the principles of this model to increase client-centered care.


Level I Fieldwork in a Homeless Shelter

Christina Wetzel, OTDS, MOT, OTR/L, Dawn Evans, OTD, OTR/L

Fieldwork education is an essential bridge between academic education and everyday practice. The

overall goal and purpose of this project was to provide students with a Level I fieldwork in a community

based setting and develop an occupational therapy program at an identified homeless shelter.


Health Literacy: How do you communicate?



Carlie Zatko, OTS, Megan Cairns, OTS, Rachel Day, OTS, Paige Slowik, OTS, Theresa Delbert, MS,

OTR/L

Ninety percent of adults struggle to understand and use health information. This poster will identify

techniques that occupational therapy practitioners can use while communicating with individuals who

have limited health literacy. How have you been communicating health information to clients?

Poster General

Occupational Therapy and Industrial Design: Collaborating to Enhance Participation

Alison Fell, OTS, Shane Mastronardi, Lindsay Pauley, OTR/L, Kimberly S. Mollo, OTD, OTR/L

The collaboration between occupational therapy and industrial design can be beneficial when fulfilling

the needs of clients and their caregivers. The expertise of each profession combines to create a product

that is specific to a clients needs.


Friday Sessions beginning at 3:00 PM

Empowering Caregiver Wellness through Education

Michelle McCann, OTR/L, C/NDT, CBIS, PPSC

Caregiver studies reveal the benefit of education and support training as a way to help alleviate the

physical and psychological stress many caregivers face. This presentation focuses on interventions

occupational therapy can provide to reinforce caregiver health and wellness.

50 minute session Health & Wellness

Multi Sensory Intervention for People Living with Dementia Danielle Accordino, OTS, Matthew Finnegan, OTS, Courtney Lancia, M.S., OTR/L, & Verna G.

Eschenfelder, PhD, OTR/L

This workshop presentation will address treatment strategies related to the use of multi-sensory based

intervention for clients over the age of 65 living with moderate to severe dementia.

50 minute session Productive Aging

Prism Adaption Treatment for Spatial Neglect

Krystal Robinson-Bert, MS, OTR/L

This session will focus on the accurate assessment and treatment of spatial-neglect using the Catherine

Bergego Scale & prism adaptation. A review of initiation and implementation of a spatial-neglect

program & protocol within the inpatient rehabilitation setting will be provided.




A Multi Dimensional Approach Pediatric Pain Management

Retta Martin, MS, OTR/L, Megan DeSalle, MS, OTR/L

The purpose of this session is to provide practitioners with a multidimensional approach to understanding

and treating pediatric chronic pain. It will include description of a 12-week outpatient program format, as

well as allow participants to practice these techniques.


Using Food to Energize your Health and Wellness

Kerri Hample, OTD, OTR/L

The food we eat provides our body with information needed to express optimal health. Poor choices lead

to potential disease and inhibit occupational performance. Learn how OTs can use food choice to

maximize health and prevent disease across the lifespan.

1 hour, 50 minute session Health & Wellness

Teaching Professionalism to Millennial Occupational Therapy Students

Alexa-Anne Griffith, OTS, CTRS, CBIS, Kimberly Gargin, OTD, OTR/L

Preparing millennial occupational therapy students for success in level I and level II fieldwork placement

begins in the classroom. This session introduces a tool for the development of professional behaviors that

can be translated to the clinical setting.


Fieldwork as an Entry Point for Practice

Christine Achenbach

Level I and II fieldwork is providing inroads for OT in the Harrisburg area for serving those experiencing

homelessness. Insights and ideas will be exchanged for duplication in other areas across the state for both

students and providers.

1 hour, 50 minute session Emerging Practice

Level I FW: Creating an Active Experience

Megan Strauss, MS, OTR/L, LaRonda Lockhart-Keene, OTR/L

Evidence shows that level I fieldwork is primarily observation. This is in contrast to how students learn

best as identified in learning theories. A tool will be discussed to aid practitioners in easily implementing

active learning experiences into fieldwork.




Friday Sessions Beginning at 4:00 PM

Level of Compliance and Outcome in Hand Therapy

Caroline Donovan OTS, Jenna Rizzuto, OTS, Erica Kopcha, OTR/L, CHT, Luisa Aggio, OTR/L

Compliance is a multifaceted, psychological factor that is engrained in every individual’s nature. This

presentation is designed to outline the evidence of the psychological factors of compliance and motivation

affect on an individual’s progression and outcome in hand therapy.


Advanced Practice OT: Residency Program

Mary K. Ferraro, PhD, OTR/L

The AOTA now approves Residency programs for advanced clinical practice. Elements of residency

programs include mentoring within a full curriculum of study and scholarly activities. This presentation

will discuss strategies to develop advanced practitioners through structured clinical experiences.

50 Minute Session Rehab & Disability

Saturday “Early Bird” Sessions Beginning at 7:00 AM

Behavioral Activation for Chronic Pain

Megan Driscoll, MOT, OTR/L

In this presentation, participants will describe key features of behavioral activation, identify an

occupational therapist’s role in chronic pain management, and discuss methods to increase a client’s

ability to self-manage chronic pain using behavioral activation techniques.


Embedding OT into a Refugee Resettlement Agency

Stephen Kern, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Chris Burba, OTS, Kelly Lapp, OTS, Alison Fell, OTS, Elizabeth

Gephart, OTS

This session describes the process of developing and embedding a broad health promoting occupational

therapy program into an existing refugee resettlement organization. This program also demonstrates a

novel community-based, level II fieldwork placement.




Promoting Health and Wellness Through Baby Wearing

Emily Shiflet, OTS, Lauren N. Sponseller, OTD, OTR/L, M.Ed

The purpose of this session is to provide education on the benefits of baby wearing and how occupational

therapists can use baby wearing as an intervention to promote health and wellness for caregivers and

babies.


Saturday Sessions Beginning at 9:00 AM

Conversations with Commissions

Ellen McLaughlin, Ed.D,OTR/L, Michelle Marshina, OTD, OTR/L

What topics related to OT Education and Practice are on your mind? This informal discussion session is

an opportunity to share your ideas and interests with POTA’s Education and Practice Commission Chairs

(same session available on both Friday and Saturday).


Maternal and Neonatal Opioid Addiction: Occupational Therapy’s Role

Erica Wentzel, MOT, OTR/L

Opioid addiction interferes with the occupational performance of pregnant and parenting women; it

negatively affects maternal care and mother-infant bonds. Occupational therapists are uniquely qualified

to improve and enhance occupational performance for these at-risk women and their infants.


Curricular Design and the Doctoral Experiential: Meeting OTD Standard Specifics, Student and

Profession-Wide Needs

Tina DeAngelis EdD, OTR/L, Lydia Navarro-Walker OTD, OTR/L

The SOLO Taxonomy will be discussed to demonstrate how to achieve specific learning outcomes

expected of the entry OTD curriculum & experiential. The SOLO taxonomy is useful as it meets the

needs of educator, student, on-site & faculty mentors.




Reiki and OT, Level I (Part 1 of 2)

Rebecca Austill-Clausen MS, OTR/L, FAOTA

Reiki facilitates stress reduction, relaxation and pain reduction. Combining Reiki with OT can improve a

client’s occupational performance. Reiki philosophy, self-healing, documentation and Reiki OT resources

will be provided during this two-part Reiki Level 1 certificate training.


RTL: OTs Impact on Student Performance and Participation

Cynthia J. Haynes OTD, OTR/L, Linda Okonsky MA, OTR/L

A clinical reasoning process and case-based outcomes will provide OTs with a framework to define and

develop their role in the RTL process including interdisciplinary collaboration to address barriers to

student learning and participation within the general education curriculum.

2 hour 50, minute session Children & Youth

Improve Children’s Visual/Visuospatial Skills

Linda Okonsky, MS, OTR/L, Kathy T. Sheridan, MS, OTR/L

Therapists will learn ways to evaluate and identify functional visual deficits in children. Resources,

strategies and evidence will be reviewed so therapists can develop and implement interventions across

settings that will address visual deficits and monitor performance outcomes.


Facilitating Success Using Multisource Feedback

Bridget Trivinia, OTD, MS, OTR/L, Sheila Moyle, MOT, OTR/L

Multisource feedback provides a well-rounded assessment of an individual’s performance based on

multiple perspectives and feedback strategies. This approach promotes learning in professional

competency skills and encourages positive behavior change for student success in fieldwork.


Validate Your Services: Home Health Assessments

Christine Daeschner, MOT, OTR/L, Traci A. Herc, MOT, OTR/L

With reimbursement and authorization requirements becoming stricter it is important to validate the

services that occupational therapists provide. Standardized assessments provide that reliability. Come

learn about standardized assessments that can be used in Home Health Practice.

1 hour, 50 minute session Productive Aging



Functional Splinting and Casting Options

Joseph Padova, OTR/L, Dianne Hunt, OTR, CHT

Individuals with chronic hemiparesis can have complex variations of presentations which impact clinical

decision making for the use of serial casting and functional splinting options. This workshop will draw on

the experiences of two highly skilled therapists to add to the knowledge base of the participants in the use

of therapeutic casting and splinting options for the neurologically impaired individual.

1 hour, 50 minute session Rehab & Disability

Saturday Posters from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Assessing Play in Preschool Children

Ciarra Bell, OTS, Barbara Schwartz-Bechet, MS, EdD

Assessing and monitoring a child’s play is important in helping them achieve their therapy goals. This

poster provides an overview of play milestones and a variety of play assessment that can be used by

Occupational Therapist in treatment sessions.


Benefits of a Community Based Therapy for Cancer Survivors

Rachel Boulos, OTS. Ashley Lewis, OTS, Paula Kramer, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

The rising number of cancer survivors is going to require skilled OT services to address the impact that

side effects have on their occupational performance. This session will discuss the benefits of community-

based therapy for cancer survivors of low socioeconomic status.


A Systematic Review of Handwriting Programs and Interventions

Alexandra Buczkowski, OTS, Julie Nagle, MOT, OTR/L

A systematic review exploring the existing research completed on handwriting intervention programs

used with children who do and do not have handwriting difficulties was performed. This research aids

OTs in identifying the most appropriate interventions for each child they treat.


Virtual Reality and Mirror Therapy: Treatment for Neglect

Adam Casper, OTS, Madeline Chiardio, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, Ed.D., OTR/L



This evidence based poster explores the use of both mirror therapy and virtual reality in the treatment of

unilateral spatial neglect, in clients living with a CVA. Research reports that both approaches may be

beneficial in addressing this deficit.


Social Skills Group for Patients with Spinal Cord Injuries

Cheryl Dejos, OTS, Levi Deike, OTS, Colleen.Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, Paula Kramer, PhD, OTR/L,

FAOTA

This poster analyzes the effects of social skills groups during inpatient rehabilitation for adults with spinal

cord injuries (SCI). Patients with SCI experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Social skills

training may increase social support and participation in preparation for community re-integration.


Occupation Based Social Group for an Elderly Refugee Community

Alison Fell, OTS, Nicole Baarck, Stephen B. Kern, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Acculturation stress can be difficult for elderly refugees, whose challenges may result in decreased

independence and limited social interaction. The Senior Engagement Program addresses the unique social

needs of the Bhutanese elderly refugee community with a weekly occupation-based social group.


Education on Assistive Technology in Morocco

Lauren Gargiulo, OTS, Monique Chabot, OTD, OTR/L

Occupational therapy is a newly developing profession in Morocco. This program provided education on

universal precautions and assistive technology to physical therapists at a clinic. Reduction of stigma of

disabilities and enhancement of independence was also addressed with patient caregivers.


Effect of a Sensory Map on Museum Experiences

Courtney Hahn, OTS, Alicia Tallia, OTS, Fern Silverman, EdD, OTR/L, Andrea Tyszka, OTR/L

This poster compares the usefulness of sensory maps for visitors with and without sensory differences at

an animated dinosaur exhibit at a major science museum. Participants will also gain an understanding of

the role of occupational therapy in community-based partnerships.

Poster Research



Alternate Yoga Intervention for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Kathryn Kropinski, OTS, Stephanie Smith, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, Paula Kramer,

PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Common behaviors exhibited by children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder include

impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. A literature synthesis identified that yoga can be used as a

treatment for children with ADHD to reduce negative behaviors as an alternative to medication.


Adjunct Faculty Perceptions of Readiness to Teach

LaRonda Lockhart-Keene, OTR/L

The poster will review the findings of a phenomenological qualitative study conducted to describe the

perceptions of new occupational therapy practitioner adjunct faculty related to their readiness to teach,

perceived needed supports and use of evidenced based teaching practices.


PromOTing the Profession: OT and Student Advocacy

Meghan McGowan, OTS, Victoria Davis, OTS, Sharon D. Novalis, PhD, OTR/L

Professional advocacy is a core competency within the ACOTE Standards. MOT programs are obligated

to align curriculum with the ACOTE Standards to instill advocacy skills in students. Educators and

students must be cognizant of strategies used to promote advocacy.


Veterans Training Service Dogs

Katherine McGuire, OTS, Jessica Strassle, OTS, Marlene Joy Morgan, EdD, OTR/L

This evidence based poster discusses the topic of training service dogs as an intervention for veterans with

psychological impairments for improving community reintegration and quality of life. Positive outcomes

have been identified through current research and creation of more programs.

Poster Mental Health

Developing an OT Program Framework for Emerging Practice

Sheila Moyle, MOT, OTR/L

Developing a generalizable framework, informed by the PRECEDE-PROCEED model, for the

development of an Occupational Therapy program as an emerging practice. Our profession continues to

be evidence-based by facilitating growth of society’s occupational needs in private school based settings.




Coaching Model: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Kara Nelson, OTS, Kristy Rutkowski, OTS, Amber Starr, OTS, Matt Weidner, OTS, Joyce Salls, OTD,

OTR/L

Coaching is a family-centered intervention model, which emphasizes a collaborative parent-therapist

partnership. Literature suggests coaching increases parent satisfaction and child occupational

performance. Variations in coaching application, efficacy of the coaching model, and implications for

occupational therapy practice will be presented.


Real-Time Motion Capture Technology for UE Rehabilitation

Jenna Nguyen, MS, OT, Laiken McCleaf, OTS, Dana Robidoux, OTS, Daniel Panchik, DSc, OTR/L,

Kurt DeGoede, PhD

This study describes the clinical perspectives of hand therapists who used an innovative real-time motion

capture program with patients who are working on range of motion. Results will be used to further

develop the technology for clinical use.


Quality of Life Changes from 3D Printing

Ellen Rosenberg, MS, OTR/L, Delaina Torres, MS, OTR/L, Danielle Paffett, MS, OTR/L, Charles

Sammartino, Dawn Waller, ATP

This poster illustrates the collaboration between the Occupational Therapy and Adapted Technology

department in developing 3D printed equipment for residents in a long-term care facility. Data highlights

the immediate impact of the equipment on the resident’s quality of life.


Turning Stress into Success: OT Students and Fieldwork

Annie Shank, OTS, Ryan Adams, OTS, Jacy Clark, OTS, Kaylee Lemmon, OTS, Theresa Delbert, MS,

OTR/L

This poster will review the existing literature related to the prevalence and sources of stress, and related

coping strategies used by occupational therapy students during fieldwork. Strategies to integrate

commonly used coping methods into individual practice settings will be presented.


Promoting Sensory Experience in the Classroom

Jennifer Swiski, OTS, Barbara Schwartz-Bechet, EdD, MS Ed



This poster demonstrates how teachers can benefit from occupational therapy (OT) education to decrease

unwanted behaviors and increase sensory experiences throughout their day. Providing education to other

disciplines can increase referrals and promote carryover of strategies into the classroom.


Companion Robots and Older Adults with Dementia

Anju Thomas, OTS, Rachael Felicetti, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, Paula Kramer, PhD,

OTR/L, FAOTA

Companion robots are interactive robots that have the ability to respond to sounds, visual stimuli, and

exhibit movements. A literature synthesis was performed to justify the use of companion robots on older

adults with dementia on overall quality of life.


Effective Community Reintegration Interventions Following Traumatic Brain Injury Rehab and

Disability

Lilian Trinh, OTS, Lauren Levine, OTS, Colleen Maher, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, Paula Kramer, PhD,

OTR/L, FAOTA

Individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) often have difficulty transitioning back into their

communities. This literature synthesis examines social skills training and peer mentoring as effective

interventions that can prevent maladaptive behaviors and increase social participation and quality of life.


Progression of Splints for the Neurological Upper Extremity

Rebecca Wagner, MS, OTR/L, Paula Bonsall, MS, OTR/L, ATP

Throughout the process of recovery from stroke and brain injury, muscle tone in the upper extremity

fluctuates from hypotonicity to hypertonicity resulting in flexor and/or extensor synergistic movement

patterns affecting function. It is critical for the occupational therapist to focus on the protection of joints

as well as facilitate neurorecovery as muscle tone evolves to maximize independence in functional

mobility and ADLs. This poster will demonstrate splint progression during recovery in an inpatient

rehabilitation stay through case studies and explore the clinician’s reasoning for progression.


UE Injury Prevention and Care in Musicians

Hope Ann Wahlmark, OTS, Brianna Brim, MOT, OTR/L, CPAM

Musicians are fine-arts athletes that are susceptible to injury, postural imbalances, and decreased

occupational performance. This poster demonstrates the necessity of a partnership between occupational

therapy and musicians and how occupational therapy can provide preventative and injury care to

musicians.




Cognitive and Functional Decline in Hospitalized Stroke Patients

Susan Whitworth, MOT, OTR/L

Early assessment and intervention in the acute care setting is particularly important in post-stroke

treatment planning. This poster will demonstrate cognitive, psychosocial, and daily activity assessments

and their relationship to acute hospital discharges in patients with acute stroke.

Poster Research

Sports Participation in Children Exhibiting Sensory Processing Patterns

Regina Wilson, OTS, Dawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT

Many children with autism and other developmental disabilities exhibit sensory processing patterns which

may lead to decreased sports participation. This poster demonstrates how incorporating OT education

(identifying and responding to these patterns) into Special Olympic volunteer training facilitates increased

participation.


Standardized Patient Encounters: Student Perception

Audrey Zapletal, MS, OTR/L, E. Adel Herge, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Tina DeAngelis, EdD, OTR/L,

Kimberly Mollo, OTD, OTR/L, Tracey Vause-Earland, PhD, OTR/L, Alison Bell, OTD, OTR/L, Arlene

Lorch, OTD, OTR/L, CHES

High-fidelity simulation is an innovative tool in OT education. This poster describes the Standardized

Patient Encounter Program embedded into a two-year program. Preliminary survey results of 229 students

indicated the SPEs positively impacted their preparation for Level II FW.


Decision Making in Evaluation: A Grounded Theory Study

Megan Ziff, MOTS, Adelyn Enders, MOTS, Elise Starkey, MOTS, Judy Beck Ericksen, PhD, OTR/L

Decision making is required throughout all parts of the therapeutic process. The application of a

preliminary theory related to decision making in evaluation can develop or strengthen a therapists’ insight

regarding their own assessment practices.

Poster General


Student Teaching-Learning Strategies for Success Sharon Novalis PhD, OTR/L

Instructors are frequently searching for strategies to engage students in meaningful teaching and learning

processes. This presentation explores peer to peer teaching and test/re-test strategies as methods to

improve occupational therapy student’s knowledge retention and clinical reasoning skills.




Challenge Yourself: Creating a Conference Proposal with Confidence

Michelle Baun, OTR/L, Susan E. Connor, OTD, OTR/L, CCHP, Daniel Fichter, OTD, OTR/L, Traci A

Herc, MOT, OTR/L, Lynne Huber, OTD, OTR/L

Have you ever attended a session and thought “I can do this” but weren’t sure how to create a conference

proposal? Learn strategies from previous presenters for developing an effective proposal and take the next

step toward presenting at conference.


Age Related Eye Disease and Low Vision

Deann Bayerl, MS, OTR/L, SCLV

Vision impairment challenges the way information is received and can hinder processing, participation,

and performance. This workshop will discuss what all occupational therapists should know and do when

presented with patients experiencing low vision from age-related eye disease.



Exploring the Kawa Model for Teambuilding

Brian Scaife, OTD, OTR/L, Jennifer Lape, OTD, OTR/L

This presentation will highlight the results of a study exploring potential uses of the KAWA model for

team building. Practical suggestions for implementing the KAWA model for this purpose in your setting

will be shared.

50 minute session Research

Conversations with Representative Assembly

Julie Ann Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA, Jodi Schreiber, OTR, OTR/L, C/NDT

Your Pennsylvania AOTA Representative Assembly Reps will provide an update on activities at the

national level and share ways you can get involved.




Saturday Sessions Beginning at 2:00 PM

Reiki and OT, Level I (Part 2 of 2)

Rebecca Austill-Clausen MS, OTR/L, FAOTA

Reiki attunement, techniques, and numerous hand positions for successful Reiki and OT use will be

taught. Extensive experiential practice on self and attendees occurs. Reiki Level 1 Certificate provided.

Attendees must be present for both Part 1 and 2 sessions.


Professional Burnout: Confessions of a Survivor

Brianna Brim, MOT, OTR/L, CPAM

Professional burnouts form a survivor’s perspective; learn how to identify, remediate and decrease your

chances of burn out with modern theory and a practical assessment tool.


Pediatric Upper Extremity Rehab: An intensive Approach

Tess de las Alas, MS, OTR/L, Kristin Bowman, OTR/L, Kaitlyn Goerl, MS, OTR/L

This session will provide information and a review of an outpatient intensive program specifically created

for treatment of pediatric upper extremity impairments. The treatment of a child is different from an adult

and it is important to acknowledge this distinction. Suggestions on creating and implementing an

effective program designed specifically for the treatment and recovery of a child will be shared.


Handwriting Update: Focus on Size

Beverly Moskowitz, DOT, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Jennifer Kitzmiller, COTA

Letter Size is proving to be the variable that impacts legibility most. With only 3 sizes (versus 62 forms),

correcting errors in Letter Size makes an immediate and measurable difference in the consistency and

therefore readability of the written page.


Application of Robotic Therapy to Hemiplegic Rehabilitation

Joseph Padova OTR/L, Jaun May OTR/L



Robotic technology is being presented as a new tool for therapeutic intervention in rehabilitation.

Through the use of lecture, video presentation and active discussion participants will explore how to

apply robotic therapy according to differing upper limb hemiparetic presentations.


“I Want to Walk,” What is OT’s Role?

Donna Skelton, MS, OTR/L, CKTP, CPST, NDT

In an inpatient rehabilitation hospital, patients often have the goal of wanting to walk. This program will

address that goal by identifying the components of walking and teaching Occupational Therapy treatment

techniques that will influence the patients’ ability to walk.


Service Dogs: Improving Client’s Engagement and Satisfaction

Leah Volker, OTA/L

Service dogs can provide an individual greater independence and help them live their life to the fullest. As

OT/OTA, we need understand how to work with services dogs and their handlers to help them achieve

optimal performance.


Documents

Friday “Early Bird” Sessions from 7:30 AM 8:20 AM “Early Bird” Sessions from 7:30 AM ... CAPS, CAASH, CGR, CGP, CR, LDST ... The purposes of this project are to identify challenges