OT with Integrative Health at AOTA Conference 2020

March 10 Update: AOTA Cancels Annual Conference & Expo in Boston
“AOTA has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel the 2020 Annual Conference & Expo and all pre-Conference events, scheduled for March 25-29 in Boston, due to the continued rapid spread of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).”

Original Post begins here:
This year’s conference is in beautiful Boston, Massachusetts. As a part of the Holistic OT Community, we are excited to see complementary health approaches and integrative health (CHAIH) offerings represented at this year’s AOTA Conference.

First off, there is a Morning Vinyasa Yoga Flow on Friday, March 27th from 6:45 AM – 7:30 AM with yoga instructor Kristina M. Toussaint, MS, OTR/L, RYT 200. How cool is that? More below.

Start your day right with this energizing all-levels vinyasa yoga class. Using simple breath work, intention-setting, and accessible physical postures, we’ll awaken the body and mind and set the tone for the day ahead as we link mindfulness and movement! Bring your own mat or towel on which to practice.

Pre-Conference Institutes and Seminars

Pre-Conference Institutes and Semi­nars are 6-hour sessions that will be presented on Wednesday, March 25th, from 12:00 pm–6:30 pm (unless noted). Institutes require an additional fee and advance registration.  Each institute provides in-depth continuing education at a fraction of the cost of comparable professional development. Seminars also require an additional fee and advanced registration.

Institute 027
Reiki, A Complementary Health Modality Used With Occupational Therapy, Level I, Certificate Provided
Reiki reduces pain and stress, enhances relaxation, and promotes healing during client-centered treatment. Reiki incorpo­rated into OT can improve a client’s oc­cupational performance. Attunement to Reiki energy, hand positions, experiential practice, billing, marketing, research, and extensive OT resources and references will be provided. Participants will be presented with a Reiki Level I certificate.

Institute 007
An Introduction to Sensory-Enhanced Yoga® for Self-Regulation & Trauma Healing
Sensory-Enhanced Yoga® synthesizes ev­idence from the fields of occupational therapy, trauma psychology, neuroscience, and Eastern yogic philosophy to produce a Transdisciplinary Model for Post-Trau­matic Growth for healing symptoms of trauma or related autonomic nervous sys­tem (ANS) conditions. This institute will present the underlying science, theory, and guidelines of Sensory-Enhanced Yoga, as well as teaching labs featuring chair and standing yoga forms/movements, breath work, and sensory-based meditation prac­tices.

Workshops

Workshop 110A – Reiki, A Complementary Health Modality Used With OT, Level II, First of Two Workshops (must have Reiki Level I training & attend both Level II workshops) | General & Professional Issues

Thursday, March 26th, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

By Rebecca Austill-Clausen, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Complementary Health Works, Inc.

This is the first of two intermediate workshops required to receive a Level II Reiki certificate. Experiential advanced exploration of Reiki symbology along with therapeutic crystalline, sound healing, and vibrational energy occurs. Advanced hand positions and treatment techniques incorporating Reiki are showcased. Client self-empowerment is highlighted. Reiki Level I training is required to attend the first part of this two-part workshop. – Understand how to incorporate intermediate-level Reiki techniques while utilizing current complementary health research to provide occupation-based treatment for clients impaired by cancer, arthritis, joint pain, cardiac conditions, depression, multiple sclerosis, mild Alzheimer’s, ADHD, and additional conditions, along with clients in hospice., Accurately describe the purpose, meaning, and implementation of the primary Reiki symbology, philosophy, and treatment procedures for use in hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health, community-based programs, skilled-nursing facilities, health-and-wellness centers, mental health and pediatric programs, rehabilitation centers, private practice, and additional clinical settings.

Workshop 110B – Reiki and OT, Level II, Certificate Provided, Second of Two Workshops (must have Reiki Level I training & attend both Level II workshops) | General & Professional Issues

Thursday, March 26th, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM

By Rebecca Austill-Clausen, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Complementary Health Works, Inc.

Scientific principles of Reiki, intermediate-level energy techniques, and spirituality in OT are analyzed. Therapist intuition and the role psychological processes play in clients’ healing are explored. Extensive group and individual experiential techniques and partnering occurs. Dozens of intermediate-level Reiki and OT references and resources are discussed. Research and networking avenues are provided. Reiki and OT Level II certificate is provided upon completion of both Level II workshops. – Explain the scientific, anatomical, and physiological components that occur when using Reiki in relation to each client’s disability during occupation-based treatment sessions. Accurately describe Reiki’s role in health, wellness, and spirituality when used in collaboration with the client’s culture and matched with their disability, setting, and philosophical beliefs.

Posters

Poster 1-110 – Equine-Assisted Therapy: A Complementary OT Approach to Emotional Regulation, Mindfulness & Daily Occupations | Children & Youth

Thursday, March 26th, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM

By Donna Latella, EdD, OTR/L, Quinnipiac University; Michelle Bodensieck, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Mariana Tamayo, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Justine Razzaboni, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Emily Tarini, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Alejandra Henao-Fernandez, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Deena Ojjeh, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Jennifer Muller, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Stephanie Egleston, MOT, Quinnipiac University; Halle Conway, MOT, Quinnipiac University

The purpose of this capstone project was to create a pilot program of equine-assisted therapy using the zones of regulation and mindfulness specifically for a child with Nicolaides-Baraitser Syndrome. The subject’s occupational performance and daily occupations were evaluated in order to create, implement, and evaluate the program, as well as to educate the parents and teachers. While limited evidence exists, this program can also generalize to a variety of pediatric conditions and challenges. – At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to further promote and educate the OT community regarding the importance of holistic and alternative approaches, such as equine-assisted therapy, to improve emotional regulation, mindfulness, and daily occupations in children. At the conclusion of this session, participants will understand the basic principles of incorporating emotional regulation and mindfulness techniques during equine-assisted therapy sessions and the need for further research.

Poster 1-603 – The Effect of Mindfulness Programming on Occupational Satisfaction in Community-Dwelling Older Adults | Productive Aging

Thursday, March 26th, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM

By Emily Gavin, MS, OTR/L, Mercy LIFE-West Philadelphia; Cheryl Dejos, DrOT, University of the Sciences; Melissa Kimball, DrOT, University of the Sciences, John Patro Jr., OTD, OTR/L, Monmouth University

This exploratory study examined the impact of mindfulness techniques on occupational satisfaction in community-dwelling older adults. Participants were clients of a day program in West Philadelphia. Occupational satisfaction was measured before and after participation in a three-week mindfulness program. Satisfaction was measured using the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) Occupational Satisfaction Assessment (OSA). An exit survey was conducted. Results showed that the programming had a positive impact on the participants. Understand the impact of mindfulness programming on occupational satisfaction for community-dwelling older adults., Utilize three mindfulness techniques as alternative OT interventions.

Poster 2-725 – Merging Yoga & OT for Parkinson’s Disease: Preliminary Outcomes | Prevention and Intervention

Thursday, March 26th, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

By Laura Swink, PhD, OTR/L, Colorado State University; Arlene Schmid, PhD, OTR/L, Colorado State University; Brett Fling, PhD, Colorado State University; Julia Sharp, PhD, Colorado State University; Christine Fruhauf, PhD, Colorado State University

We completed a pilot study of an eight-week Merging Yoga and OT for Parkinson’s Disease program (MY-OT for PD). MY-OT for PD was a fall-risk self-management program that merged community-based yoga and group OT. Participants served as their own controls during the pilot study. During the intervention period (as compared to the control period), participants experienced reduced self-reported falls, improved fall management and prevention, and improved balance. – Understand the preliminary results of the Merging Yoga and OT for Parkinson’s Disease program., Identify changes in the following preliminary outcome constructs following the Merging Yoga and OT for Parkinson’s Disease program: self-reported falls, fall risk-factor management, concern surrounding falls, balance confidence, and balance.

Poster 2-900 – The Effects of Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) Training on Increasing Self-Compassion in Healthcare Professionals | Research

Thursday, March 26th, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

By Susan Knier, OTD, OTR/L, Bay Path Univeristy; Julie Watson, PhD, OTR/L, Bay Path University; Jennifer Duffy, PhD, Bay Path University

Healthcare professionals are vulnerable to stress overload and its manifestations. This study investigated the impact of MSC training on people working in healthcare. Overall self-compassion and subscale scores showed significant improvement. Participants indicated that self-compassion and positive mind states were integrated into their lives. OTs should integrate MSC as an intervention for their clients and themselves. Evaluate the significance of MSC training on increasing self-compassion as a self-care protective strategy for healthcare professionals. Reflect upon professional and practice implications of self-compassion relevant to OT and healthcare systems.

Poster 2-901 – Mindfulness Meditation to Improve Body Awareness | Research

Thursday, March 26th, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

By Kimberly Szucs, PhD, OTR/L, Duquesne University; Jennie Dyer, Duquesne University; Melissa Lees, Duquesne University

In today’s technology-based world, prolonged device use is common among college students. This quantitative study explores the effect of two weeks of mindfulness meditation on body awareness in college students. Based on preliminary data analysis, there is an increase in both mindfulness and body awareness in the target population. These current findings support the advancement of the profession, in that mindfulness meditation can maximize health, well-being, and quality of life for all people. – At the conclusion of the session, participants should be able to identify the proposed wide-ranging benefits of mindfulness meditation. At the conclusion of the session, participants should be able to discuss how mindfulness meditation impacts body awareness and posture.

Poster 4-128 – Mental-Health Benefits of a Mindfulness-Based Prevention Program on Elementary Schoolchildren | Prevention & Intervention

Friday, March 27th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

By Mei-Ling Lin, OTD, The University of Texas at El Paso; Alyse Nasser, The University of Texas at El Paso; Cayla Molina, The University of Texas at El Paso; Emma Smith, The University of Texas at El Paso; Kristina Miller, The University of Texas at El Paso

This efficacy study examined the impacts of an evidence-based stress-management program on emotional self-efficacy and well-being in elementary schoolchildren. Preliminary data collected from 176 fourth to sixth graders showed that emotional self-efficacy significantly correlated with and predicted life satisfaction. Age was unrelated to emotional self-efficacy; there was a significant difference between fourth grade and sixth grade in the emotional self-efficacy but not life satisfaction scales. Participants will learn the evidence-based OT program developed for addressing mental-health needs in elementary schoolchildren.

Poster 4-313 – Transitioning Mindfully With Transgender Individuals Using Mindfulness & Coping Strategies | General & Professional Issues

Friday, March 27th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

By Iris Kwan, Touro University Nevada and William Wrightsman, ScD, Touro University Nevada

The purpose of this program was to assess if mindfulness and coping-skills-based interventions could help transgender individuals manage stress, anxiety, and sadness. This structured six-week program taught the transgender population how to use various coping strategies and techniques to enhance their perceived ability to cope with depression or periods of sadness, advance their coping skills in everyday life to address stress, and expand their ability to handle periods of anxiety. – Understand why the transgender population is at risk for mental-health issues, which can interfere with occupational performance. Identify strategies to teach transgender individuals how to handle periods of stress, anxiety, and sadness.

Poster 5-019 – Incorporating Reiki Instruction, a Complementary & Integrative Health Biofield Energy Modality, Into OT Education | Academic Education

Friday, March 27th, 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

By Rebecca Austill-Clausen, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Complementary Health Works, Inc.

Data to support including Reiki experiential instruction within OT education is provided to assist student preparation for complementary and integrative healthcare. Reiki’s effectiveness in reducing stress for students, faculty, and clients is highlighted, along with common treatment diagnoses and settings. Current AOTA, National Institutes of Health, and medical research will showcase the benefits of Reiki, a biofield, complementary, health-energy modality. – Understand how incorporating occupation-based Reiki experiential training into an OT educational curriculum can expand student clinical competencies. Discover AOTA, National Institutes of Health, and medical research, as well as resources that support the use of Reiki, a complementary and integrative health modality, within OT clinical practice and educational programs.

Poster 5-509 – Acupressure Modality Effectiveness Research Results for Pain & Anxiety Accompanied by Demonstration of Pain & Anxiety Acupressure Protocol | Mental Health

Friday, March 27th, 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

By Carol Noel-Mozer, OTR/L, Spaulding Rehabilitation Center; Marilyn Zurwaski, OTR/L, Total Approach Therapy; Deanna Waggy, OTR, D.W. Healing Arts LLC

A retrospective database analysis of hospitalized patients, nurses, and the general public involved the use of self-rated pain and anxiety scores before and immediately after administration of a 16-point stress-release acupressure protocol. This study was completed over a seven-year period by nurses, licensed massage therapists, and OTs. Demo and results will indicate that acupressure is a highly satisfactory complementary therapy that can significantly decrease pain and anxiety scores and increase well-being. Recognize acupressure as a complementary and alternative medicine preparatory approach for OT practice to reduce pain and anxiety, which cause barriers to occupational performance. Administer acupressure pain and anxiety protocol to demonstrate the effectiveness of acupressure as a preparatory approach for OT practice.

Poster 5-706 – The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Anxiety in Patients Receiving Hemodialysis | Rehabilitation & Disability

Friday, March 27th, 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

By Julie Seltzer, OTD, Veterans Health Administration

Hemodialysis can be stressful and anxiety-provoking, as patients are connected to a machine for four hours at a time, three times a week, watching blood coursing through tubing outside their bodies. And their lives literally depend on repeating this burdensome procedure indefinitely. To alleviate some of this anxiety, aromatherapy was provided to patients on dialysis. This poster illustrates the response to aromatherapy in reducing anxiety as shown by pre- and post-test scores on the Zung Anxiety Scale. Understand the value of incorporating aromatherapy during dialysis to reduce anxiety., Identify several anxiety-provoking aspects associated with undergoing dialysis.

Poster 5-732 – The Use of Mindfulness to Increase Participation in Meaningful Occupations for Individuals With Chronic Pain | Prevention & Intervention

Friday, March 27th, 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

By Michelle Jackson, OTR/L, MBA, Cox College and Sarbinaz Bekmuratova, PhD, Cox College

Chronic pain impacts multiple aspects of an individual’s life, including participation in meaningful occupations. Mindfulness techniques such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and variations on mindfulness-based stress-reduction (MBSR) programs have been shown to positively affect the relationship an individual has with chronic pain, thereby increasing opportunities for participation in meaningful occupations. Describe the impact of chronic pain on participation in meaningful occupation. Gain an understanding of the role of mindfulness practices as an intervention for individuals who experience chronic pain.

Poster 5-900 – Yoga & Ergonomics in Sedentary Workplaces | Work & Industry

Friday, March 27th, 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

By David Plutschack, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, CLT, CEAS II, Drake University; Rachel Allen-McHugh, OTD, OTR/L, RYT-200, CEIM, Drake University; Emily Botten, Drake University; Sara Schankerman, Drake University; Reid Lefler, Drake University; Hannah Fletchall, Drake University

This poster focuses on a pilot study analyzing the effects of a chair yoga program and ergonomic interventions for individuals seated for 75% or more of their workday. Participants were given a chair yoga program and ergonomic handout over the course of four weeks. Active shoulder and cervical range of motion and perceived stress were evaluated. Participants demonstrated improved shoulder and cervical range of motion, however no change was observed with perceived stress. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to analyze the effects of the sedentary workplace on the modern worker. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to evaluate the effects of yoga and ergonomic interventions for range of motion and perceived stress for sedentary workers.

Poster 6-513 – Critically Appraised Paper: Mindfulness-Based Therapy in Adults With an Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial | Mental Health

Friday, March 27th, 3:15 PM – 5:15 PM

By Kayla Johari, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy and Ashley Halle, OTD, OTR/L, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to describe the use of mindfulness-based therapy techniques with adults with autism spectrum disorder in mental-health settings.

Poster 6-514 – Critically Appraised Paper: Improving Continuity of Services for Cancer Patients: An Internet-Based Mindfulness Intervention Enhances Quality of Life | Mental Health

Friday, March 27th, 3:15 PM – 5:15 PM

By Adam Strizich, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy and Ashley Halle, OTD, OTR/L, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Cite research evidence supporting the use of Internet-based mindfulness interventions to improve quality of life for individuals with cancer.

Poster 6-606 – Yoga, Anxiety & Occupational Engagement in Older Adults: A Pilot Study | Research

Friday, March 27th, 3:15 PM – 5:15 PM

By Christina Befanis, OTD, Salisbury Visiting Nurses and Mindy Garfinkel, OTD, OTR/L, ATP, Quinnipiac University

This study investigated the effect of yoga on mood and occupational engagement in older adults. Five participants completed a six-week yoga group. Changes in occupational performance pre- and post-intervention were explored via interviews and questionnaires. Results show perceived improvement in occupational engagement and mood for four out of five participants. Preliminary findings suggest meditative movement is an effective OT intervention for improving occupational engagement. Understand mental health barriers that affect participation in desired occupations in older adult clients. Understand the efficacy of meditative movement and the group process in decreasing perceived anxiety and increasing perceived occupational engagement.

Poster 6-607 – Moving Medication: Tai Chi’s Impact on Balance Self-Efficacy in Occupational Performance | Prevention and Intervention

By Christopher Taylor, OTD, OTR/L, Mayo Clinic

This research project is intended to evaluate Tai Chi’s impact on balance self-efficacy in occupational performance— specifically in regard to individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). On average, functional self-efficacy scores of participants with MCI increased from 59.8% to 74.6% (p-value = .00736). Results indicate that Tai Chi is an effective intervention to increase balance self-efficacy when performing daily activities in both individuals with and without MCI. To understand Tai Chi principles that improve balance self-efficacy required for safe completion of activities of daily living (ADLs) and functional mobility., To understand Tai Chi movements that improve balance self-efficacy required for safe completion of ADLs and functional mobility.

Poster 6-716 – Merging Yoga & OT for Parkinson’s Disease Improves Fatigue Management & Activity & Participation Measures | Research

Friday, March 27th, 3:15 PM – 5:15 PM

By Heather Hill, MSOT, Colorado State University; Arlene Schmid, PhD, OTR/L, Colorado State University; Laura Swink, PhD, OTR/L, Colorado State University; Karen Atler, PhD, OTR/L, Colorado State University; Abby Anderson, MSOT, Colorado State University; Brett Fling, PhD, Colorado State University

We examined the impact of an eight-week intervention merging yoga and OT for people with Parkinson’s disease on fatigue measures, activity and participation measures, and the relationship between the two constructs. Activity and participation scores significantly improved after the intervention. Fatigue and activity and participation were significantly correlated. Qualitative data revealed perceived improvements in fatigue management and activity and participation. Discuss the benefits of a community program merging yoga and OT for people with Parkinson’s disease. Consider quantitative and qualitative data regarding improvements in fatigue measures, activity and participation measures, and the relationship between fatigue and activity and participation.

Poster 7-715 – The Effect of Mindfulness Training on the Quality of Life (QOL) of Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) & Their Caregivers | Rehabilitation & Disability

Saturday, March 28th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

By Megan Dooley, OTD, OTR/L, University of Mary

This pretest–posttest study was designed to determine the effects of a six-week mindfulness program on QOL for individuals with PD and their caregivers (n = 15). Analysis of the Assessment of Quality of Life Form-8D showed significance for question 11 “communication” (p < .05) and overall positive increases in each domain. OTs implementing mindfulness programs for this population may be an efficient way to improve QOL and promote continued engagement in meaningful occupations. At the conclusion of this session, participants will have a better understanding of how to create a community-based mindfulness program for individuals with PD and their caregivers. At the conclusion of this session, participants will have a better understanding of the Assessment of Quality of Life-8D and how implementation of a community-based mindfulness program changed the scores in each domain from pretest to posttest.

Poster 8-315 – Application of a Simulated Nature Intervention, Using Virtual Reality & Aromatherapy, on the Experiences of Residents in a Retirement Community | General & Professional Issues

Saturday, March 28th, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

By Mikayla Moore, James Madison University; Brandon Mantell, James Madison University; Rebekah Vanzo, James Madison University; Amy Yun, OTD, OTR/L, James Madison University; Andrew Peachey, DrPH, James Madison University

While nature-based interventions show promise for improving the quality of life for people residing in retirement communities, many people are unable to access the outdoors due to limited mobility. This session discusses an intervention using a virtual-reality-simulated nature experience along with aromatherapy to alleviate stress and improve quality of life of residents with limited mobility. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to identify what virtual reality and 360-degree cameras are. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to describe how a simulated nature intervention implemented in a retirement community affected clients with limited mobility.

Poster 8-513 – Mindful Meditation to Reduce Stress in Young Adults | Basic Research

Saturday, March 28th, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

By Jian Jones, MSOT, Florida A&M University; Gabriell Herrera, Florida A&M University; Stephen Johnson, Florida A&M University; Priya Mistry, Florida A&M University; Barbara Kornblau, JD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Florida A&M University; Debora Oliveira, PhD, Florida A&M University

This qualitative study explored the effect of mindful meditation on reduction of stress in young adults through an online survey of open-ended questions using Qualtrics. Participants were recruited from a closed Facebook meditation community and various social media outlets. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis until saturation was reached. Multiple researchers and data collection from multiple sources ensured triangulation, rigor, and trustworthiness of the data. – Identify factors that prompt young adults to meditate., Describe three ways young adults find mindful meditation helpful in their daily lives. Discuss how OT can incorporate mindful meditation into practice.

Poster 9-114 – Adaptive Chair Yoga to Increase Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Framework for Rehabilitation Professionals | Children & Youth

Saturday, March 28th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

By Genni Hester, MA, OTR/L, Columbia University and Katherine Dimitropoulou, PhD, OTR/L, Columbia University

The purpose of this course is to present a guideline for chair yoga for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. The program provides principles for evaluation of individual postural needs, body awareness, and personal goals and interests. It entails principles for developing individualized programs to improve balance and posture, gait, and body awareness in this population. A feasibility study further reveals positive personal attitudes toward exercise and improvements in stress regulation. At the end of this short course, participants will be able to identify the needs of children and adolescents and will be able to develop an adaptive chair yoga treatment program. After engaging in this session, participants will be able to evaluate outcomes and safely modify chair yoga treatment protocols in order to increase postural control, gait, and body awareness for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

Short Courses

Short Course 150 – OT in Primary Care: Promotion of Health & Wellness Using Whole Health & Complementary & Integrative Health (CIH) Approaches | Home & Community Health

Thursday, March 26th, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

By Aimee Miller, COTA/L, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital; Jaclyn Lefebre, MOTR/L, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital; Jennifer McDonald, MD, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is redesigning healthcare using Whole Health to empower and equip patients to take charge of their health and wellness. The Madison VHA is delivering this model by imbedding Whole Health OT in primary care to provide proactive, personalized, and patient-centered care while utilizing CIH approaches. We will present case studies identifying assessment tools, interventions, and health outcomes. New resources developed for this approach will be shared. Understand the use of Whole-Health and CIH approaches in OT in primary care. Identify strategies to successfully implement Whole-Health OT in primary care.

Short Course 163 – Adaptive Yoga for Wellness | Rehabilitation & Disability

Thursday, March 26th, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

By Olivia White, OTD, OTR/L, C/NDT, MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital

Adaptive yoga is the modification of poses used in a traditional yoga practice, such as by performing them at a seated level or by using props such as blocks, chairs, or bolsters. With the growth of mind-body fitness programs, there is a large percentage of the population that may not be able to, or that are no longer able to, participate in physical activities because of a disability. OTs are experts in evaluating occupational performance, adapting activities, and developing activity programs. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to understand the benefits of adaptive yoga in the learners’ practice setting. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to identify clients appropriate for an adaptive yoga class.

Short Course 235 – The Inner Compass Companions: A Program for Elementary School–Aged Children Using Mindfulness to Assist With Internal Self-Regulation | Children & Youth

Friday, March 27th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

By Judee Davis, MA, OTR/L, Salem Public Schools

Internal self-regulation works best when a child readily has the tools to access a calm inner state. These tools need to be simple and come from within. That is where the Inner Compass Companion program originates. It combines a children’s book with activities using sensory-processing principles and mindfulness. When children know that they have control of internal reactions and impulses, it empowers them to change how their sensory system responds to the environment. – At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to identify the benefits of using mindfulness practice in the school setting to enable students to be independent with positive internal self-regulation to promote optimal academic success., At the conclusion of this session, participants will understand how to use this multisensory social-emotional learning curriculum in prospective elementary school classrooms to assist students in maintaining positive internal self-regulation, thereby promoting compassion for self and others throughout the school day.

Short Course 348 – Third-Wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness & Behavioral Activation | Mental Health

Saturday, March 28th, 1:30 PM. – 3:00 PM

By Sonny Misa, Thomas Jefferson University and Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Thomas Jefferson University

CBT is heralded as the gold standard for psychotherapy, but with the advent of third-wave CBT and the implication of metacognition, a major shift primes OTs for a resurgence in mental health. Parallels between meditation and mindfulness of the occupation are introduced through experiential learning and self-reflection. The session culminates in an applicable intervention—behavioral activation—expressed via the OT framework. Differentiate between meditation in cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness in third-wave cognitive behavioral therapy. Apply behavioral activation principles to OT practice.

Short Course 356 – From Evidence to Practice: A Qigong Sensory-Training (QST) Early-Intervention Home Program for Young Children With Autism | Children & Youth

Saturday, March 28th, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

By Orit Tal-Atzili, OTD, OTR/L, Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program and Joyce Salls, OTD, OTR/L, Chatham University

Research evidence suggests that QST, a tactile intervention for children on the autism spectrum, is effective in normalizing sensory processing and self-regulation and decreasing autism severity and parenting stress. This presentation will provide participants with knowledge about QST, the research behind it, and the results of a QST pilot study with children with autism in an early-intervention program. Implications for OT practice will be discussed. Describe the QST intervention and the research that supports it as an intervention for alleviating sensory challenges in children with autism. Understand how the QST intervention can be utilized by early-intervention programs to promote health, well-being, and participation in everyday occupations in children with autism and their families.

Conversations That Matter

Conversations That Matter 307 – Using Mindfulness Training to Reduce Stress & Anxiety in Entry-Level OT Students | Academic Education

Saturday, March 28th, 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM

By Emily Pugh, MA, OTR/L, FAOTA, University of Florida and Jennifer Vogtmann, MS, OTR/L, Baker College

Given the high levels of stress and anxiety in college students and the impact upon academic achievement, OT educators would benefit from sharing and discussing how evidence-based mindfulness practices can support the mental health of their students. Participants will problem-solve and reflect upon how they can introduce mindfulness training into their classrooms, labs, or fieldwork sites. Describe the evidence supporting mindfulness training to reduce students’ perceived stress and anxiety, both of which impact their occupational performance in the classroom, lab, and fieldwork settings., Discuss and reflect upon how mindfulness-based practices can be incorporated into participants’ academic and clinical contexts to support students’ occupational performance and professional role assimilation.

Expo Hall

Booth #1611: Soul Lightning Acupressure Booth

Hope to see you there!

Did we miss anything? If so, let us know and we will be happy to update the post.