Date of Award

2022

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Breann Lamborn

Abstract

Many children in the United States experience childhood trauma and/or adverse childhood events which can have short-term and long-term impacts on a child. Childhood trauma is complex; therefore, the appropriate care needed is also complex, making an interprofessional collaborative approach necessary to address the impacts of childhood trauma, promote positive outcomes for those who have been impacted, and work towards a common goal. (Fraser, MacKenzie, & Versnel, 2019). Occupational therapists (OTs) are well suited to collaborate with other professionals such as mental health practitioners, however, OT’s role related to a trauma care team is still relatively unrecognized. There is a need for OTs to advocate for their role on interprofessional teams that address the impacts of childhood trauma to promote an overall increase in awareness and understanding from other mental health professionals regarding OTs’ role on the team. An extensive literature review, a theory-driven literature matrix, and a needs assessment were all conducted to guide the development of this product. To address the problem identified above, an evidence-based toolkit was created to help OTs advocate for their role on the healthcare team to address the impacts of childhood trauma. The purpose of the toolkit is to provide resources that increase the awareness and knowledge of other professionals such as mental health practitioners regarding the role of OT in addressing the impacts of childhood trauma and to increase interprofessional collaborative practice. It is anticipated that this toolkit will be implemented and promote increased use of trauma-informed interventions for children who have experienced trauma, ultimately increasing occupational performance and overall well-being.

Download

Share

COinS