AOTA Podcast

How does occupational therapy help people live meaningfully even as life nears its end? In this deeply human episode of the AOTA Podcast, we sit down with Lindsey Buddelmeyer, OTD, MOT, OTR/L, Christian Jacobus, MD, FACEP, FAAHPM, David Benthall, MS, OTR/L, BCG, and Heather McKay, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, to explore how occupational therapy practitioners bring dignity, purpose, and connection to individuals navigating serious illness, hospice, and palliative care.  Together, our guests share how OTPs address functional decline, support legacy work and life review, and empower caregivers facing loss and transition. From bedside stories to systems-level advocacy, this conversation highlights how occupational therapy bridges the physical and the emotional to help clients find meaning, comfort, and autonomy at every stage of care.  Resources: AOTA Official Document: End-of-Life Care and the Role of Occupational Therapy (2023)  Quality of Life: Occupational Therapy in Chronic Condition Management, Palliative Care, and Hospice  (AOTA Press)

What does it mean to think globally as an occupational therapy practitioner? On today's episode, we sit down with three internationally recognized leaders: Samantha Shann, MSc, PGCert, Dip COT (UK), FRCOT, President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, Ginny Stoffel, PhD, OT, FAOTA, AOTA Delegate to WFOT, and Douglene Jackson, PhD, OTR/L, LMT, ATP, CYT, FAOTA Alternate AOTA Delegate to WFOT, to explore the mission and impact of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Together, we dive into: WFOT's global role and its upcoming 75th anniversary in 2027 How practitioners and students can become members, volunteer, and engage in international OT initiatives Signature resources like the Occupational Therapy Workforce Resource Hub and Human Resources Project 2024 The growing collaboration between AOTA and WFOT and how that partnership is shaping the future World OT Day (October 27): its origins, themes, and how to get involved What to expect from the WFOT Congress in 2026 Whether you're an occupational therapy student curious about global opportunities or a seasoned practitioner ready to expand your impact, this episode offers practical ways to connect, contribute, and celebrate the worldwide OT community. Learn more at: https://wfot.org https://www.aota.org/events/calendar/world-ot-day

How does occupational therapy fit into the primary care puzzle? In this episode, Dr. Sue Dahl-Popolizio shares her vision and experience on integrating occupational therapy into primary care teams. From managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension to improving outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal and mental health concerns, this conversation explores the expanding role of OT in upstream, preventative care.  Dr. Dahl-Popolizio unpacks the functional outcomes, cost savings, and workflow benefits of having OT in primary care settings. She also shares strategies for overcoming cultural and systemic barriers, practical documentation and billing tips, and real-world case examples that highlight the value of OT's holistic lens.   Resources: Primary Care Occupational Therapy:  A Quick Reference Guide   Developing Tailored Program Proposals for Occupational Therapy in Primary Care   Enhancing the Value of Integrated Primary Care: The Role of Occupational Therapy   Interprofessional Primary Care: The Value of Occupational Therapy   Retrospective Analysis: Most Common Diagnoses Seen in Primary Care Clinic and Corresponding Occupational Therapy Interventions   How Occupational Therapy Can Contribute to the Primary Care Team and Reduce Physician Burden   Occupational Therapy in Primary Care: Determining Receptiveness of Occupational Therapists and Primary Care Providers   Primary Care Occupational Therapy: Diagnoses, Outcomes, Reimbursement, and Team Satisfaction   The Role of Primary Health Care in Achieving Global Healthcare Goals: Highlighting the Potential Contribution of Occupational Therapy   Occupational Therapy in Primary Care- Barriers, Pivots, and Outcomes: A Pilot Study   2025 Frequently Used CPT and HCPCS Codes for Occupational Therapy   Contact Hour Survey Link    

In this powerful episode of the AOTA Podcast, we explore the True Grit Spinal Cord Program, a groundbreaking, community-based, post-acute rehabilitation experience designed for adolescents and young adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI).  Occupational therapists Keara McNair, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, ATP and Kassandra Boyd, OTD, OTR/L, share how this program, built in partnership with Rutgers University and Children's Specialized Hospital, empowers participants to develop independence, build community, and thrive as they transition to adulthood.   Resources: True Grit Spinal Cord Program American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Issac L.- A Second Chance for Teens Spinal Cord Injury Patients Learn Life and Mobility Skills at True Grit Camp The QuadCast:  S5 E13- The True Grit Spinal Cord Injury Program    

In this episode of AOTA Podcasts, we explore the unique challenges and inspiring opportunities for occupational therapy practitioners serving rural and underserved communities. Our guests, Kalyn Briggs, PhD, OTR/L, CLA and Tim Dionne, PhD, OTR/L, share real-world experiences, highlight innovative models of care, and discuss how OTPs can bridge gaps in access to health services. Listeners will learn about key resources, advocacy efforts, and opportunities to build professional networks that support rural practice.   Resources: APA Preparing for practice in rural communities CMS Rural Health Strategy Rural Health Information Hub: Education and Training of the Rural Healthcare Workforce Rural Health Information Hub:  Your First Stop for Rural Health Information University of Washington School of Medicine Rural Programs If you'd like to join AOTA's Rural Therapy Community of Practice: please be sure to complete this survey to be added to our roster: https://surveys.aota.org/s3/Rural-Therapists-CoP-Membership-Enrollment-Survey The Journal of Rural Health Rural and Remote Health Journal The Australian Journal of Rural Health

How can occupational therapy practitioners expand their role in assistive technology development, and what does 3D printing have to do with it?  In this episode of Everyday Evidence, we're joined by Bill Janes, OTD, MSCI, OTR/L, whose work as an occupational therapist, researcher, and assistive tech advocate explores the intersection of 3D printing, client-centered care, and the PEOP framework. Together, we explore the potential of 3D printing to transform how occupational therapy practitioners approach problem-solving in assistive technology, offering customizable, affordable, and innovative solutions that can meet unique client needs in real-time. We discuss practical case examples, lessons from an ALS clinic collaboration, and recent research that demystifies the design process and challenges assumptions about cost and feasibility.   Resources: Makers Making Change Thingiverse TinkerCAD ATIA – Assistive Technology Industry Association RESNA – Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America OT & 3D Printing Facebook Group AT-AT Lab, University of Missouri   Research Articles Referenced: Feasibility of Customized 3D-Printed Assistive Technology Within an Existing Multidisciplinary Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Clinic    Assessing the Use of Co-design to Produce Bespoke Assistive Technology Solutions Within a Current Healthcare Service: A Service Evaluation   From Makerspaces to Practice:  3D Printing Expansion to Improve Assistive Technology Access   Contact Hour Survey Link

In this episode, we're joined by Jennifer Johnson and Amanda Fonner to explore the dynamic collaboration between occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs). Jennifer and Amanda share their insights into what makes OT/OTA partnerships successful, how understanding each other's roles enhances patient outcomes, and why teaching this collaboration is crucial for the next generation of practitioners. Whether you're an experienced practitioner, a student, or just curious about how intraprofessional collaboration can elevate occupational therapy, this episode is packed with practical advice and thoughtful reflections.   Note: The speakers in this podcast have chosen to use the terms OT, OTR, OTA, and COTA during their discussion.  AOTA recognizes that practitioners across the United States may use different terms and/or credentials, depending on their personal preference and the state practice act under which they are licensed.      Resources OT and OTA Intraprofessional Collaboration Webpage AOTA Official Document:  Guidelines for Supervision, Roles, and Responsibilities During the Delivery of Occupational Therapy Services Intraprofessional Collaboration:  Bridging the Gap Between OT and OTA  AOTA Ethics Advisory Opinion:  Supervision and Collaboration Between Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants (Please note that some resources may require AOTA membership to access)        

In honor of National Black History Month and Women's History Month, this special episode explores the invaluable contributions of Black women occupational therapy practitioners, scholars, and leaders who have shaped the profession and continue to drive health equity forward. We are joined by Arameh Anvarizadeh, Natalie Chang Wright, and co-host Varleisha Lyons to reflect on the legacy of trailblazers who broke barriers, discuss the ongoing challenges in diversifying the field, and highlight the critical role of occupational therapy in addressing health disparities. Featuring insightful conversations with established voices in OT, this episode examines the future of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy in building a more inclusive and equitable profession. Additional Resources: DEIJAB Toolkit Promoting Health Equity through Holistic Admissions in OT education RISE Pathways Program DISCLAIMER:  The views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the authors and speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or endorsements of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). AOTA does not assume responsibility for any interpretations, applications, or consequences of this material in light of current laws or policies. This presentation is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or regulatory guidance. Attendees/Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal, regulatory, or organizational policies regarding compliance with current federal and state laws on DEI-related content. By attending/listening to this session, participants acknowledge that they do so voluntarily and agree that neither the presenters nor AOTA shall be held liable for any actions taken based on the information provided.

On today's episode, we delve into the pressing issue of concussions and their often-overlooked aftermath. Anna Boone and Whitney Henderson share their expertise and discuss the staggering number of individuals who sustain concussions each year in the U.S., many of whom remain undiagnosed or lack access to follow-up care and rehabilitation services. While much attention has been focused on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), we shine a light on those experiencing post-concussion syndrome (PCS) with mild persistent symptoms that hinder their daily lives. This episode emphasizes occupational therapy practitioners' critical role in evaluating and intervening in these cases, particularly regarding high-level instrumental activities of daily living, work, school, and social participation. Join us as we explore effective metacognitive strategies that empower clients to recognize meaningful changes and engage in their recovery process. Contact Hour Survey Additional Resources: Cognitive Strategy Training Feasibility Trial Persistent Concussive Syndrome through an Occupational Lens Anna Boone Research Profile Whitney Henderson Research Profile

In today's episode, we speak with Emily Barr about patient safety and some of the research and advocacy efforts she has been involved in as the Nebraska Coalition for Patient Safety executive director. She describes OT's distinct role in addressing patient safety and provides recommendations for students, clinicians, educators, and advocates to improve patient safety standards, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes. Contact Hour Survey Additional Resources: National Quality Forum focus on HARM project National Quality Forum update to serious adverse event reporting Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act of 2005 CMS Patient Safety Measure for Hospitals CMS Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement

On Today's episode, we speak with Tasha Holmes and Lauren Wlazelek about how AOTA Fellowship Programs can enhance your OT practice. They highlight the benefits and opportunities that recognized fellowships can bring to individual practitioners and organizations. Additionally, they share personal and systematic examples of how fellowship participation benefits students, practitioners, patients, universities, and health systems.  Additional Resources: Visit the AOTA Fellowship homepage to learn more 

On Today's episode we speak with DeOnna Clark, Beth, Johnson and Melissa Tilton about how you can identify, address, and prevent compassion fatigue and burnout in your OT practice. They highlight the need to destigmatize burnout and compassion fatigue, introduce the emotional PPE project, and provide personal and systematic recommendations to decrease the barriers that healthcare workers face when seeking, accessing, and receiving emotional and mental health support The 2024 AOTA Podcast episodes are sponsored by NYU Steinhardt's top-ranked Department of Occupational Therapy. Additional Resources: Emotional PPE Project Professional Quality of Life website    

On today's episode, we speak with Renee Causey-Upton. Renee is the Associate Chair/Graduate Program Coordinator and an Associate Professor at Eastern Kentucky University. She shares clinical recommendations for occupation-based treatment in orthopedic settings and describes the research she has conducted and mentored related to pre and post-operation interventions for total knee replacement surgery. Contact Hour Survey Resources: OT for Ortho Recovery CEU OT Practice Guidelines for Musculoskeletal Conditions American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons National Association of Orthopedic Nurses

On today's episode, we speak with Maggie Deforge, an OT practitioner and chair of the group Occupational Therapy for Native Americans. She shares lived experiences, insights, and recommendations to address Native issues and to encourage culturally safe practices across settings.  Additional Resources: ot4natives.org OT MDI Network 

Today we are joined by Dr. Denise Donica and Dr. Jana Cason to discuss occupational therapy and handwriting telehealth interventions. They draw on their own experience as school-based practitioners and OT educators to help OT professionals to understand and implement best practices for handwriting telehealth service delivery.  Contact Hour Survey Additional Resources: AOTA Western Psychological Services Pearson Beery VMI Telehealth Share Youtube Adam the OT Handwriting Without Tears Size Matters Loops and Other Groups Pilot Study Expanding Telehealth  

On today's episode, we speak with AOTA Director of Quality Jamar Haggans and AOTA Senior Legislative Representative Andy Bopp. We discuss the Medicare Home Health Accessibility Act (Bill H.R.7148) and occupational therapy's role and impact within Medicare home health. Jamar and Andy share insights into their efforts to support OT quality and advocacy and provide recommendations for how practitioners can get involved and optimize their care. The 2024 AOTA Podcast episodes are sponsored by NYU Steinhardt's top-ranked Department of Occupational Therapy. Additional Resources: Take Action Page AOTA Fact Sheet Home Health Evaluation Checklist Home Health Micro Credential  

Today we are joined by Susan Fasoli. In addition to being an active member of AOTA and the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, Susan is a Professor Emerita of occupational therapy at MGH institute of health professions where she has conducted, published, and disseminated research related to robot assisted therapy and cognitive skills training, the importance of interprofessional collaboration, and the rehabilitation treatment specification system (RTSS). She shares information related to RTSS and gives recommendations on how students, practitioners, educators, and researchers can enhance their practice by applying the RTSS.  Contact Hour Survey Additional Resources: American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine: Improving Lives Through Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research | ACRM ACRM Rehabilitation Treatment Specification Networking Group (RTS-NG)  Follow ACRM on X at @ACRMRTS  

On today's episode we speak with Apple Sepulveda. Apple is a co-founder of the nurture collective, occupational therapist and lactation consultant. We discuss the importance and process of addressing maternal and infant mental health within the scope of OT to facilitate improved developmental and wellness outcomes. She shares recommendations for occupational therapy practitioners across settings and resources to support change and best practices.   The 2024 AOTA Podcast episodes are sponsored by NYU Steinhardt's top-ranked Department of Occupational Therapy. Nurture Collective Brazelton's Touchpoints Erikson Institutes MAMMHA Screening App Postpartum Support International

On today's episode we speak with Alexandra Bruce. Alexandra serves as the medical advisory board chair and advocacy committee chair for the non-profit organization All Wheels Up. We discuss the barriers and risks that people with disabilities face when participating in air travel, and proposed solutions to improve air travel accessibility including designated wheelchair zones on planes and standardized training for airport and airline employees. She shares recommendations to address accessibility and air travel performance for occupational therapy practitioners across settings and resources to support change and equity.   The 2024 AOTA Podcast episodes are sponsored by NYU Steinhardt's top-ranked Department of Occupational Therapy. PVA Accessible Air travel page: pva.org MDA: www.mda.org AWU research page: www.allwheelsup.org Davies, A., & Christie, N. (2017). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iatssr.2017.05.003  Major, W. L., & Hubbard, S. M. (2019). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jairtraman.2019.04.006  Rossow, J., Starr, B., North, K., Stevenson, M., & Lampe, A. (2020). Occupational Therapy's Role in Establishing Inclusive and Accessible Air Travel. OT Practice, 25(6), 27–29.  Wintersgill, J., & Wood, C. H disabilityhorizons.com

On today's episode we are joined by Sam Troia and Michael Tambone. We discuss their research and work in contributing to holistic approaches to care for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. They share evidence backed and innovative approaches to care for this population and give recommendations on how to improve health and well-being outcomes by enhancing individual's habits and routines. Contact Hour Survey Additional Resources: Cognitive Remediation Habit Formation 8 Dimensions of Wellness Motivational Interviewing Why We Sleep