OT JEDI

In this episode of OT JEDI, Dr. Suzanne Rappaport interviews Blaine Robin for a powerful conversation on culture, identity, and the future of occupational therapy. Centered around his work on Caribbean Perspectives on Occupational Therapy in the United Kingdom, this discussion challenges dominant narratives in the profession and amplifies voices that have too often been overlooked.Dr. Robin shares how his lived experiences shape his approach to practice, education, and scholarship—and why it’s critical for occupational therapy to move beyond surface-level “cultural competence” toward deeper, more meaningful change. Together, we explore social determinants of health, representation in OT, and what it really means to decolonize practice.This episode is a must-listen for clinicians, educators, and students who are ready to push beyond the status quo and engage in more culturally grounded, socially responsive care.ReferencesGarcia, L., & Robin, B. (2025a). Caribbean perspectives of occupation. RCOT. OT News.Ocloo, J., Surendran, S., Robin, B., Noel, L., Gibson, J., & Dawson, S. (2025). Inequitably harmed: A scoping review protocol on patient safety and diverse population groups. BMJ Open, 15(12), e108797. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2025-108797Robin, B. (2010). Exploring illness and social care management: Comparing consumer perspectives of suffering and the challenges faced by service providers (Unpublished PhD thesis). https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/6368/Robin, B. (2022). Developing inclusive cultures in occupational therapy. https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/blogs/school-of-health/2022/09/developing-inclusive-cultures-in-occupational-therapy/Robin, B. (2023). Efforts to redress the imbalance of educational attainment: Case study Leeds. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B. (2023). Hearing from occupational therapists of Caribbean heritage – commemorating Windrush Day. https://www.rcot.co.uk/news/hearing-occupational-therapists-caribbean-heritage-commemorating-windrush-dayRobin, B. (2023). The importance of cultural competence for occupational therapists. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B., & Cogavin, D. (2023). Becoming a councillor [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vu86m0EFbARobin, B., & Ibrahiim, K. (2023). 75th anniversary of Windrush guest editorial. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B., & Richardson, O. (2023). The importance of cultural competence for occupational therapists. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B., & Tongai, C. (2023). Enacting occupational justice in dual roles as an occupational therapist and local politician: Advocacy at the margins [Video playlist]. YouTube. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=FLUJq-hb7DdJ0YLPHgPm322wRobin, B. (2024a). The inner strength of excellence that unlocks our potential. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B. (2024b). Avoiding past histories from being forgotten. RCOT. OT News.Robin, B. (2025a). Dealing with racism in the groove of life. RCOT. OT News.Tinarwo, C., & Robin, B. (2025). Exploring occupational justice for Black university students in the United Kingdom: A scoping review. The Human Occupation & Wellbeing Journal, 1(2). https://howj.org/index.php/howj/article/view/44

How do educators move beyond one-time DEI trainings toward lasting change? In this episode, Audrey L. Zapletal and Karla A. Bell share lessons learned from a longitudinal professional development program focused on sexual and gender minority education. The discussion highlights data-driven outcomes, discomfort as part of learning, and sustainable faculty development.ReferencesMcCoy, M. A., Levett-Jones, T., & Pitt, V. (2013). Development and psychometric testing of the Ascent to Competence Scale. Nurse education today, 33(1), 15–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2011.11.003Zapletal, A. L., Bell, K. A., Sanchez, A., Tobia, J., & Hunnicutt, M. (2024). LGBTQ+ inclusion: A pilot interdisciplinary professional development program for faculty, clinicians, and administrators in higher education. Innovative Higher Education, 49(3), 495–518. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10755-023-09683-4 ResourcesJefferson Pride Care - Professional Development Program For SG-MET | Jefferson HealthThe Gender Unicorn

College students today are navigating record levels of anxiety, burnout, and executive function challenges — and traditional academic support services have an increase in demand. In this episode, we explore how occupational therapists can play a critical role in fostering student success, resilience, and belonging on campus. Tune in to learn why higher education needs OT now more than ever.ReferenesBarbayannis, G., Bandari, M., Zheng, X., Baquerizo, H., Pecor, K. W., & Ming, X. (2022). Academic stress and mental well-being in college students: Correlations, affected groups, and COVID-19. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 886344. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.886344Córdova Olivera, P., Gasser Gordillo, P., Naranjo Mejía, H., La Fuente Taborga, I., Grajeda Chacón, A., & Sanjinés Unzueta, A. (2023). Academic stress as a predictor of mental health in university students. Cogent Education, 10(2). https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2023.2232686Molin, F., Rohlfs, M., & Christian, J. (2022). A conceptual framework to understand learning through metacognition: Identifying relationships between factors that influence students’ self-regulated learning. Heliyon, 8(11), e12003. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12003Wang, Y., Wang, X., Wang, X., Guo, X., Yuan, L., Gao, Y., & Pan, B. (2023). Stressors in university life and anxiety symptoms among international students: A sequential mediation model. BMC Psychiatry, 23, Article 556. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-023-05046-7

For the season four opener, OT JEDI looks at state-level advocacy in occupational therapy with special guest Beth Chiariello, President of the New York State Occupational Therapy Association (NYSOTA) and Chair of the OT Department at Touro University.Beth shares her insights on how legislation and policy shape everyday OT practice, why staying informed at the state level is essential, and how NYSOTA supports practitioners and students through advocacy, education, and professional development. From recent legislative wins to common misconceptions about state laws, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.We also explore the value of NYSOTA membership, the importance of being involved in shaping policy, and what the future holds for OT in New York. Plus, hear about NYSOTA’s annual conference and educational offerings that help keep the profession thriving.For more information on and to join the New York State Occupational Therapy Association, go to https://www.nysota.org/

In this episode of OT JEDI, we explore a critical but often overlooked topic—sexual health literacy among older adults living with HIV. Joined by occupational therapists Riley David and Dr. Kathryn Burke, we dive into their pilot study evaluating occupation-based sexual health education programs. We discuss how knowledge, stigma, fear, and pleasure intersect in the lives of older adults, and how occupational therapy can play a key role in fostering safe, empowered, and fulfilling intimate experiences.ResourcesThe Network for LGBTQIA+ Concerns in Occupational Therapy | Queer HealthThe Capstone CollectiveFollow Dr. Burke on Instagram @otkate or find her at Johnson & Wales UniversityReferences David, R. & Burke, K. (2025, April 5). Evaluating the effectiveness ofoccupation-based programming on the sexual health literacy of older adults living with HIV [Poster session]. American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Inspire, Philadelphia, PA. https://tinyurl.com/y96srmd4

In this episode, our guest, Karen Jacobs, explores the role of AI in occupational therapy—from streamlining documentation and facilitating communication through translation to addressing health disparities while considering ethical implications. She discusses AI’s potential in assessment, intervention, client engagement, and its ability to make OT education more equitable.ReferenesAlowais, S. A., Alghamdi, S. S., Alsuhebany, N., & et al. (2023). Revolutionizing healthcare: The role of artificial intelligence in clinical practice. BMC Medical Education, 23, 689. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04698-zÇela, E., Fonkam, M. M., & Potluri, R. M. (2024). Risks of AI-Assisted Learning on Student Critical Thinking: A Case Study of Albania. International Journal of Risk and Contingency Management (IJRCM), 12(1), 1-19. https://doi.org/10.4018/IJRCM.350185Gandhi, T. K., Classen, D., Sinsky, C. A., Rhew, D. C., Vande Garde, N., Roberts, A., & Federico, F. (2023). How can artificial intelligence decrease cognitive and work burden for frontline practitioners? JAMIA Open, 6(3), ooad079. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamiaopen/ooad079Mansour, T., & Wong, J. (2024). Enhancing fieldwork readiness in occupational therapy students with generative AI. Frontiers in medicine, 11, 1485325. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2024.1485325Montenegro-Rueda, M., Fernández-Cerero, J., Fernández-Batanero, J. M., & López-Meneses, E. (2023). Impact of the Implementation of ChatGPT in Education: A Systematic Review. Computers, 12(8), 153. https://doi.org/10.3390/computers12080153 Nilsen, P., Sundemo, D., Heintz, F., Neher, M., Nygren, J., Svedberg, P., & Petersson, L. (2024). Towards evidence-based practice 2.0: Leveraging artificial intelligence in healthcare. Frontiers in Health Services, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/frhs.2024.1368030Vahedifard, F., Sadeghniiat Haghighi, A., Dave, T., Tolouei, M., & Hoshyar Zare, F. (2023). Practical use of ChatGPT in psychiatry for treatment plan and psychoeducation. arXiv preprint arXiv:2311.09131. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2311.09131Zhai, C., Wibowo, S., & Li, L. D. (2024). The effects of over-reliance on AI dialogue systems on students' cognitive abilities: A systematic review. Smart Learning Environments, 11, 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-024-00316-7

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Rowan, an occupational therapist and founder of Essential Pelvic Health, a private practice specializing in pelvic health. She shares her journey into this specialization, the unique needs of clients who benefit from pelvic health services, and the crucial role of advocacy and education in expanding awareness and access to care.ResourcesEssential Pelvic HealthReferenesAlappattu, M., Hilton, S., & Bishop, M. (2019). An International Survey of Commonly Used Interventions for Management of Pelvic Pain. Journal of women's health physical therapy, 43(2), 82–88. https://doi.org/10.1097/jwh.0000000000000131Alden, J., Sanses, T., Pearson, S., Ukaegbu, A., Gopaul, S., & Hill, L. (2020). Women’s pelvic floor and urinary incontinence (UI) health literacy: A mixed-methods study. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(4, Suppl. 1), 7411510314p1. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.74S1-PO7408Fyhrie, J., Schmid, A., Le Fevre, E., Weaver, J., & Fruhauf, C. A. (2024). OTs’ perspectives on their unique role in pelvic health. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 78(Suppl. 2), 7811500263p1. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2024.78S2-PO263Schmitz, J. R., Schoener, H., Atler, K., Fruhauf, C. A., Pearce, D., Schmid, A., & Mathias, K. (2023). Women’s experience receiving OT for pelvic floor dysfunction: A case series. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(Suppl. 2), 7711510310p1. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2023.77S2-PO310Watts, C. (2024). Barriers & supports to occupational therapists working in pelvic health across three healthcare delivery systems: Outpatient, hospitals, and home health (Publication No. 36964687). Georgia State University. https://doi.org/10.57709/36964687

In this episode of OT JEDI, we sit down with Clarice Grote, occupational therapist, advocate, and founder of Amplify OT, to explore the critical intersection of occupational therapy and healthcare policy. Clarice shares her journey from Columbia University to Capitol Hill, detailing how her experiences shaped her passion for advocacy, equity, and policy-driven change.We discuss how Medicare and healthcare policies impact OT practice, reimbursement, and access to care, and Clarice breaks down these complex systems into actionable strategies for OTs. She offers insights on how OTs can become effective advocates, address healthcare inequities, and use policy as a tool for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to expand your impact, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways to help bridge the gap between policy and practice.Listen for an inspiring discussion on how OTs can amplify their voices, navigate healthcare policy with confidence, and drive meaningful change in the profession.ResourcesThe OT Amplifier Collective - Amplifyot.com/membershipAOTA’s advocacy page - AOTA.org/advocacyHere is where you can contact your legislators - AOTA.org/takeaction The Amplify OT Podcast podcast - podcast.amplifyot.com 

In this episode on the OT JEDI Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Sarah Vines, who shares her incredible work supporting individuals after top surgery. Sarah discusses best practices for gender-affirming care, the critical role of mental health in the process, and how occupational therapy can make a difference in the lives of transgender clients.ResourcesWPATH Standards 8: https://www.wpath.org/media/cms/Documents/SOC%20v7/SOC%20V7_English.pdfA Clinician's Guide to Gender-Affirming Care: https://www.newharbinger.com/9781684030521/a-clinicians-guide-to-gender-affirming-care/An introductory resource created by Dr. Sarah Vines is available on COTAD's site:  https://static1.squarespace.com/static/606b6cc4347e673687921b0e/t/64f0d99a66448a49ac21e769/1693505950408/COTAD+Practicum+Project+%284%29.pdfACLU Legislative updates: https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights-2024HRC state legislative map: https://www.hrc.org/resources/attacks-on-gender-affirming-care-by-state-mapTrevor Project 2024 stats: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2024/References De Brouwer, I., Elaut, E., Becker-Hebly, I., Heylens, G., Nieder, T. O., van de Grift, T. C., & Kreukels, B. P. C. (2021). Aftercare needs following gender-affirming surgeries: Findings from the ENIGI multicenter European follow-up study. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 18(11), 1921–1932. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.08.005Kcomt, L., Gorey, K. M., Barrett, B. J., & McCabe, S. E. (2020). Healthcare avoidance due to anticipated discrimination among transgender people: A call to create trans-affirmative environments. SSM - Population Health, 11, 100608–100608. https://doi.org/ 10.1016/j.ssmph.2020.100608Grant, J. M., Mottet, L. A., Tanis, J. J., & Min, D. (2011). Transgender discrimination survey. National Center for Transgender Equality and National Gay and Lesbian Task Force: Washington, DC, USA.Mikulak, M., Ryan, S., Ma, R., Martin, S., Stewart, J., Davidson, S., & Stepney, M. (2021). Health professionals' identified barriers to trans health care: a qualitative interview study. British Journal of General Practice, 71(713), e941–e947. https://doi.org/10.3399/BJGP.2021.0179Rosol, M., Rogers, K., Borsh, R., Pavlinec, R., Russell, M., & Russell, A. N. (2022). Occupational therapy students’ perceived preparedness to work with transgender clients. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 6(3). https://doi.org/10.26681/jote.2022.060302Stroumsa, D. (2014). The state of transgender health care: Policy, law, and medical frameworks. American Journal of Public Health, 104(3).  https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.30178Swenson, R., Alldred, P., & Nicholls, L. (2022). Doing gender and being gendered through occupation: Transgender and non-binary experiences. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 85(6), 446-452. https://doi.org/10.1177/03080226211034422

Last season in episode 5, we explored the history of Black occupational therapists with guest speaker Toni Solaru. She spoke of systemic barriers in legal, governmental, and educational contexts. Highlights included Lela A. Llorens' 1969 Slagle Lecture, the only one by a person of color, and discussions on initiatives like AOTA's 1988 minority recruitment study, the founding of COTAD and BLM in the 2010s, and the addition of DEI as a pillar in Vision 2025. Despite these efforts, AOTA's inconsistent support for BIPOC and individuals with disabilities remains a concern. The discussion also addressed the lack of education on BIPOC history in OT and whether it’s fair to expect BIPOC faculty to take on this responsibility. Lastly, we critiqued how many JEDI and DEI initiatives have been performative and noted their decline in prominence by 2024.We reconnect with Dr. Solaru to discuss the impactful work of Diverse OT National and the programs they support. She also highlights key initiatives such as Disrupt OT and the Unconference, emphasizing actionable steps and the importance of staying vigilant and informed in advancing equity within the profession.References and Resourceshttps://www.blackbeyondthebinarycollective.org/https://us.jkp.com/products/occupational-therapy-disruptorshttps://givebutter.com/DiverseOThttps://www.commonnotions.org/everything-for-everyone?srsltid=AfmBOorVhJCZeHS2ze5KDe5XBWjfCZZx5xWQHXsl9VUunnUdt3oU88RiInterested in joining the book club?Reading for the Revolution, first meeting is January 22, 2025 from 6-8:30 PM CST, 2.5 CE/PDUs credits available. FREE event. Advocacy in Action #1: Where Are All the Black OTs? The first meeting is February 1, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST. Four CEs/PDUs are available. A $50 suggested donation is suggested. Use code ACCESS4ALL for free registration. All funds go to supporting DOT operations. What We Owe Each Other - References Davis, A. Y. (2022). Freedom is a constant struggle (F. Barat, Ed.). Penguin Books Ltd.Gates, H.L. (2016, Nov 9). Black America since MLK: And still I rise, black panthers [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_E8O8rlnoo&list=PL8DMaz5ynUE269cN892SpNPiBSESfbd70&index=12&ab_channel=HenryLouisGates%2CJr.hooks, b. (2018). All About Love: New Visions . HarperCollins.King, M. L., Jr. (2018). Letter from Birmingham Jail. Penguin Classics.Peck M. S. (1998). The different drum : community making and peace (2nd Touchstone). Simon and Schuster.TRT. (2021, Jun 16). Deep dive: A history of Black-Palestinian solidarity [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAl5YrNQHWs&ab_channel=TRTWorld

Hello, OT JEDI listeners! As we approach the 2024 election, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the enduring importance of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion—our JEDI principles. Since 2020, there’s been a powerful call for justice and equity that has resonated across communities, professions, and industries. But as new challenges arise, we need to keep JEDI values central in all that we do.I'm speaking to you now as the new Program Director of SUNY Downstate’s Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (PP-OTD) program, where diversity and inclusion are integral. The faculty and student diversity at SUNY Downstate is essential, and I'm actively fostering this by building an inclusive, accessible, and representative program. To support practicing professionals, I've introduced a credit-for-prior-learning initiative, waiving up to 9 credits, saving students close to $10,000—a step toward making higher education more equitable.Amid this transition, I’m thrilled to bring back OT JEDI with Season 3, focusing on sustaining and amplifying the JEDI movement. Let’s continue advancing these values together, in every sphere of life. Stay tuned for new episodes soon, and thank you for being part of this journey toward a more inclusive future.

Occupational therapists must consider the unique needs of transgender clients to create an inclusive healthcare environment that respects individual identities. Several recent legislation restrict various liberties, including medical treatments, bathroom usage, and preferred pronoun recognition. Transgender individuals often face distinct challenges related to mental health, social support, and healthcare access.  Occupational therapists play a vital role in addressing these challenges by tailoring intervention plans to meet the specific needs of transgender clients, which may include assistance with daily activities and serving as advocates. By embracing cultural humility and gender-affirming care, occupational therapists contribute to the well-being and empowerment of transgender clients, promoting healthier and more fulfilling lives.ResourcesPhiladelphia Trans Wellness ConferenceFenway Health & Harvard University “Advancing Excellence in Sexual Minority Healthcare”Harvard online course “LGBTQ Health Issues” ReferencesGender identity and expression. (2016, April 16). [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from personal email from PFLAG Health Disparities. (2015, September 1). [blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/disparities/index.htmHuman Rights Campaign & Trans People of Color Coalition. (2017). A time to act: Fatal violence against transgender people in America 2017. San Francisco, CA: Lee, M. Lynn, M. (2017). Here’s what transgender people with disabilities want you to know. BuzzFeed, Retrieved from https://www.buzzfeed.com/mahdialynn/heres-what-disabled-transgender-people-want-you-to-know? utm_term=.fdrrNNQX5m#.jbdx00AzGXNational Center for Transgender Equality and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. (2011). National transgender discrimination survey. Washington, DC: Grant, J. M., Mottet, L. A., Tanis, J., Herman, J. L., Harrison, J., & Keisling, M. National LGBTQ Health Education Center: Fenway Health. (2016). Affirmative care for transgender and gender non-conforming: Best practice for front-line health care staff. Boston, MAOccupational Therapy’s Commitment to Nondiscrimination and Inclusion. (2014). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(Supplement_3), S23-4. Pan, L. & Moore, A. (n.d.). The gender unicorn. [blog post]. Retrieved from http://www.transstudent.org/genderParekh, R., (2016, February). What is gender dysphoria? [blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoriaSingular ‘they’. (2018). [blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/singular-nonbinary-theyState Maps of Laws and Policies. (2019). [blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org/state-maps/transgender-healthcareUnderstanding the transgender community. (2018). [blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org/resources/understanding-the-transgender-communityViolence against the transgender community in 2018 (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org/resources/violence-against-the-transgender-community-in-2018

Occupational therapy can provide services in many different areas within the prison system. From providing transitional services to inmates getting ready to be released, to focusing on occupational deprivation, to leading groups for an infinite number of topics.  This episode features Ariana Gonzalez, an occupational therapist, executive director, and founder of Life After Incarceration: Transition & Reentry (LAITR), an occupational therapy community-based program focused on reentry for individuals after incarceration. To learn more about Ariana Gonzalez and LAITR visit https://www.lifeafterincarceration.com/References Criminal justice data. The Sentencing Project. (2023, January 25). Retrieved July 29, 2023, from https://www.sentencingproject.org/research/us-criminal-justice-data/Dillon, M. B., Dillon, T. H., Griffiths, T., Prusnek, L., & Tippie, M. (2020). The distinct value of occupational therapy in corrections: Implementation of a life skills program in a county jail. Annals of International Occupational Therapy, 3(4), 185. https://doi.org/10.3928/24761222-20200309-01Gonzalez, A., & Tyminski, Q. (2020). Sleep deprivation in an American homeless population. Sleep Health: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation, 6(4), 489–494. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2020.01.002Jaegers, L. A., Dieleman, C., Dillon, M. B., Rogers, S., Muñoz, J. P., & Barney, K. F. (2020). Justice-based occupational therapy initiative: Advancing occupational justice in criminal justice systems. Annals of International Occupational Therapy, 3(4), 200+. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A676585517/AONE?u=mlin_m_regis&sid=ebsco&xid=ed5dd4dbMuñoz, J. P., Moreton, E. M., & Sitterly, A. M. (2016). The scope of practice of occupational therapy in U.S. criminal justice settings. Occupational Therapy International, 23(3), 241–254. https://doi.org/10.1002/oti.1427 Tucker, S. (2020). Access to OT in the prison system: Assessing attitudes of OT students and practitioners...2020 American occupational therapy association annual conference & expo. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(Sup1), 1. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.74S1-PO1510Tyminski, Q., Gonzalez, A., & Synovec, C. E. (2020). The importance of health management and maintenance occupations while homeless: A case study. Work, 65(2), 297–301. https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-203081Special thanks to Parker Sheridan for the background research!

By the end of 2022, a record-breaking number of people — 108.4 million — have been forced to flee their homes.  Refugees are people who are forced to flee from their country of origin due to violence, oppression, or substantiated fear of persecution based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, nationality, membership in a group, or expression of certain political opinions.Refugees experience occupational deprivation which is defined as a condition where an individual is unable to engage in meaningful occupations due to enforced contextual factors such as a lack of sources of sustenance, support, and services, diminished safety, and separation/loss of family members.  When occupational injustice occurs, humans as occupational beings are hindered from their right to have equal opportunities to participate in meaningful occupations that meet their occupational needs. Jill Maglio, an occupational therapist, is currently working with refugees in Greece on a CircusAid project.  She is the founding Director, Educator, and Occupational Therapist of both Holistic Circus Therapy and CircusAid, which are social circus programs that utilize circus activities as a therapeutic tool to increase occupational participation. Her work is nuanced with all the shifting barriers and bureaucracies in place but instills joy and laughter.  Her work promotes social connectedness and efficacy, as well as a possible reprieve from their distressing circumstances.For more information on Jill Maglio's work with refugees - https://www.circusaid.com/ Follow CircusAid on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/circusaid/?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3DFor more information about circus as a therapeutic tool - https://www.holisticcircustherapy.com/References Darawsheh, W. B., Bewernitz, M., Tabbaa, S., & Justiss, M. (2022). Factors Shaping Occupational Injustice among Resettled Syrian Refugees in the United States. Occupational Therapy International, vol. 2022, Article ID 2846896. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/2846896Maglio, J. & McKinstry, C. (2008). Occupational therapy and circus: Potential partners in enhancing the health and well-being of today’s youth. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 55, 287–290. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1630.2007.00713.xR. El-Bialy and S. Mulay, (2015). Two sides of the same coin: factors that support and challenge the wellbeing of refugees resettled in a small urban center. Health & Place, 35, 52–59. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.06.009The UN Refugee Agency. (14 June, 2023) Refugee data finder. UNHCR. https://www.unhcr.org/refugee-statistics/

In June 2022, the Supreme Court's decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization turned the right to obtain or not obtain an abortion over to the states, which is very nuanced.  It is more than just a restriction of women’s rights but in some states, there is an aspect of criminalization.  This presents complications for occupational therapy practitioners in terms of how we practice with our Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, how we address occupational risk factors, and how it obscures our Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics.  Darya Nemati and Delany McKee, Boston University Occupational Therapy Doctoral Candidates, share their emerging research on recent changes in abortion laws and how these laws might influence occupational therapy practice. References Abdelfatah, R. & Araboluei, R. (Hosts). (2022, June 16). After Roe: A new battlefield [Audio podcast episode]. In Throughline. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2022/06/15/1105245445/after-roe-a-new-battlefieldAbdelfatah, R. & Araboluei, R. (Hosts). (2022, May 19). Before Roe: The physician’s crusade [Audio podcast episode]. In Throughline. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2022/05/18/1099795225/before-roe-the-physicians-crusadeAmerican Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). AOTA 2020 Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(Suppl. 3), 7413410005.  https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.74S3006American Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process (4th ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(Suppl. 2), 7412410010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.74S2001Beddoe, L. (2022). Reproductive justice, abortion rights, and social work, Critical and Radical Social Work, 10(1), 7-22. Retrieved June 15, 2023, from https://doi.org/10.1332/204986021X16355170868404Levenson, M. (2023, June 24). Five things to know one year after the Dobbs decision. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/24/us/politics/roe-wade-anniversary-dobbs.htmlReagan, L. (2018, January 22). Roe made abortions legal, but it doesn't keep women and providers safe. HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/reagan-opinion-roe-wade-harassment_n_5a63d88ee4b0dc592a096aa1?section=us_opinion

Toni Solaru OT, OTD, OTR talks about the unknown history of occupational therapy.  Dr. Solaru is a community-based mental health OT and the co-founder and Chair of Diverse-OT National, an organization dedicated to advancing the cultural climate within the OT profession and strives to create a community of critically reflexive OT(A)s and students. To follow Diverse-OT National on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/diverseot_national/?hl=enTo access the full interview on YouTube – https://youtu.be/Au8sreLe8IEReferences American Occupational Therapy Association. (1953, November). Report of the Subcommittee on Schools and Curriculum. (Available from the Wilma L. West Library, 4720 Montgomery Lane, Bethesda, Maryland 20814)Black, R. M. (2002). Occupational therapy’s dance with diversity. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 56, 140–148.Black History Milestones. (2019). LifeHistory.com. Retrieved from https://www.history.com /topics/black-history/black-history-milestonesBolden, J. A. (1993). Differential occupational outcomes among African American and white women in female-dominated professions: The case of occupational therapy. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Boston University.Robinson, L. (2000). The Black occupational therapy caucus: The first 25 Years. Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.Skyberg, R., Grubb, Rachel. (2019). Evolution of occupational therapy practice: Life history of Lela Llorens, Ph.D., OTR/Ret, FAOTA.. Oral History Student Papers. 54.Wells, S. A., & Whiting, F. (1998, March). A celebration of diversity: Reviewing AOTA’s progress toward creating a more diverse profession. OT Practice, 2, 31–34.http://www.otcentennial.org/https://www.cleveland.com/news/2022/10/ex-cleveland-schools-therapist-who-rioted-at-us-capitol-on-jan-6-seeks-mercy-from-court.html

Victor Calise has had a diverse career path—he has gone from plumber to Paralympian to Policymaker.  He competed in sled hockey in the 1998 Paralympics in Nagano, Japan.  He worked for the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation.  He was appointed the Commissioner of the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and then reappointed by Mayor Bill De Blasio, and reappointed again by Mayor Eric Adams.  He recently took on a new role as Director of Global Culture, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Walmart’s newly formed Accessibility Center of Excellence. Here are some additional links for the accessible accomplishments in NYC - Accessible NYC and Judy Heumann's #ManCrushMonday about Victor Calise.

As occupational therapy practitioners, we understand disability within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this two-part episode, occupational therapy student Meaghan Lawrence discusses the program, Empower Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) which supports individuals who have had an injury to their spinal cord. In the traditional rehabilitation model in the United States, rehabilitation stops a few months after injury. Often after discharge is when true rehabilitation needs to occur because the initial shock and comorbid conditions have diminished.  Through Empower SCI, the participants have the opportunity to take part in a more meaningful rehabilitation.Special Thanks to Meaghan Lawrence for writing and interviewing and special thanks to Michael Manhardt for sharing the Empower SCI story.  For more information about Empower SCI, please visit their website.

As occupational therapy practitioners, we understand disability within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this two-part episode, occupational therapy student Meaghan Lawrence discusses the program, Empower Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) which supports individuals who have had an injury to their spinal cord. In the traditional rehabilitation model in the United States, rehabilitation stops a few months after injury. Often after discharge is when true rehabilitation needs to occur because the initial shock and comorbid conditions have diminished.  Through Empower SCI, the participants have the opportunity to take part in a more meaningful rehabilitation.Special Thanks to Meaghan Lawrence for writing and interviewing and special thanks to Elizabeth Lima Remillard for sharing the Empower SCI story.  In our next episode Meaghan will interview, Michael Manhardt, who was a participant and peer mentor at Empower SCI. For more information about Empower SCI, please visit their website.

Dr. Ana Malfitano’s career is focused on Social Occupational Therapy, which has been developed in Brazil to repair various inequities and injustices. In Dr. Malfitano’s World Federation of Occupational Therapy 2022 Keynote address, she turns the lens of occupational therapy onto the idea of anthropophagy.  This concept was developed in The Manifesto Anthropophagic, by Oswald de Andrade, which proposes that metacognitive knowledge stems from alterity.  In a world where we coexist with many other cultures—understanding the “other” and consuming this knowledge, builds new understanding.  In this discussion of anthropophagy and its application in social occupational therapy, we question the construction of our therapeutic position and purpose.  Today’s world is fraught with relentless social inequalities and rather than cancel the colonial origins, perhaps recognition of the plurality of our histories & cultures, and questioning our actions will unite us in working towards a social life.Image: Abaporu, 1928 by Tarsila do Amaral 

In the United States the profession of occupational therapy was established in 1917 and in the UK it was established in 1922 but in Arab countries, like Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Palestine, Kuwait, and others, occupational therapy was established less than 40 years ago. And most Arab countries saw the establishment of occupational therapy within the last 25 years.Of course, as the profession grew in Arab nations, theories, and models were brought in from Western countries that emphasized practices that had been developed in very different contexts.  These ideas about human occupation and its connection to health and wellness had to be translated and made to fit into the Arab culture.  These theories and models stem from the well-educated, privileged social positions, able-bodied, white Anglophones, who identify with Judeo-Christian cultural backgrounds.When Dr. Razan Hamed was studying occupational therapy at the University of Jordan, she noticed that some occupational therapy evaluations were missing some important aspects of Muslim life while holding onto items that were irrelevant in Jordan.  She set her sights on the Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills or PASS and created the A-PASS, the Arabic Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills

This episode we will discuss and learn about hair equity.  Hairstyles have cultural roots.  It can be easy to dismiss and think, “Well, it’s just hair.” When people spend time in hospitals, they often experience disruptions in their normal routines and engagement in the activities of daily living or ADLs. I talked with two professionals, Lauren Justice an OT and Kim Regis, who is the Vice President of operations at Nationwide children’s hospital in Columbus Ohio.   They formed a hair equity initiative and launched a program to that increased staff awareness and education, as well as, taking stock on current hair supply inventory.  Their work is not only an example of occupational justice with focus on equal access to grooming but also a paragon of what can be accomplished on multidisciplinary teams. Click here for more information on the hair equity programs at Nationwide Children's HospitalSome common hairstyle vocabulary:Box braids are a stye of hair-braiding.  This type of hairstyle is a "protective style" (which means it is a style which can be worn for a long period of time to let natural hair grow and protect the ends of the hair) and is  used as a way to protect textured hair against split ends and damage from heat and humidity.  It is considered  "boxy" because of square-shaped hair divisions.   A do-rag is a scarf or cloth worn on the head, typically with its ends or corners tied together in the back.   It dates back to the 19th century when poor laborers and slaves needed something to tie their hair back with. Later during the  Harlem Renaissance and Great Depression, in the 1930s, do-rag evolved into a hairstyle preserver.There are two types of lace fronts,  a full lace wig and a lace front wig is the base. The difference is in the name, lace front wigs contain lace in the front of the wig.  It is attached to the front edges of the head, along the  hairline where there is often a lace panel. Full lace wigs are pasted to the head entirely, they tend to have a slightly stronger durability. A sew-in is a hair extensions made up of small cornrow braids that are used as anchors then attached with hair wefts by use of needle and weaving thread.A silk press is a method of straightening natural curls without  a chemical relaxer. Instead, this hairstyling technique uses a blow-dryer and flat iron to smooth out the hair. A quick weave is a style where extensions are glued to a protective wig cap before bonding it to the  head. It's a protective style that can be done at home. 

Welcome to the OT JEDI podcast.A podcast dedicated to building knowledge about social injustices and inequities in the worlds of public health & health care through the lens of occupational therapy.