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Description
This capstone, conducted at Sunny Day Therapy, aligned with the ACOTE advocacy domain and aimed to raise awareness of occupational therapy’s (OT) unique role in maternal health—a critical need as maternal mental health concerns affect 1 in 5 U.S. women (Postpartum Support International, 2023) and OT remains underutilized in this area. Addressing literature-identified gaps in emotional regulation, daily function, and maternal-infant co-occupations (Sepulveda, 2019), the 14-week project developed and disseminated evidence-based educational materials, social media campaigns, and outreach initiatives to support maternal self-regulation, physical health, and well-being during the perinatal and postpartum period. Deliverables included flyers on self-regulation, postpartum ergonomics, body mechanics, mental health tips, and tummy time; blog posts; social media reels; promotion of clinic services; and facilitation of four infant massage classes. Advocacy efforts expanded through collaboration with nearby pediatric clinics and programs. Effectiveness was evaluated via informal client and clinician feedback, participation rates, and engagement with educational content. Leadership was demonstrated through initiating community partnerships, creating practical, occupation-centered tools, coordinating events, and promoting OT’s visibility in maternal care. The project advanced OT practice by equipping clinicians with ready-to-use resources, empowering mothers with functional strategies, and directly addressing service gaps in holistic maternal health care.
Graduation Date
2025
Keywords
Maternal Health
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Book
Site Mentor
Kim Day, OTD
Comments
Link to presentation: https://youtu.be/B1-MxauhEW8