HealthMatters

Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. Samantha Brown to learn about simulation rooms in academia. Through Samantha Brown's years of expertise in healthcare as both a clinician and educator, specifically in physical therapy, she demonstrates the importance of a simulation room. This conversation also delves into what a simulation room is and how students utalize it!

To get in contact with the HealthMatters staff please contact KJacobs@bu.edu

Join us for a conversation with Carolyn Ferrer, a seasoned occupational therapist with over 16 years of experience, as she wraps up her Post-Professional OTD at Boston University’s Sargent College. Carolyn spent 13 years working in inpatient rehab in Detroit, where she supported individuals with spinal cord injuries, strokes, limb loss, and other complex medical conditions. Her time there, especially through the challenges of the pandemic, not only sharpened her clinical skills but also deepened her perspective as a practitioner and person. In the years that followed, Carolyn transitioned into teaching, starting as a guest lecturer and eventually becoming an adjunct instructor. Inspired to take the next step in her career, she returned to school to pursue her PP-OTD. She found the “just right challenge” at Sargent College, where a supportive environment helped her balance school, teaching, and life. Tune in to hear Carolyn reflect on her experience in the program and share insights from her doctoral project—an innovative continuing education initiative that equips OTs to better support clients living with chronic conditions in managing their daily lives.

Join us for an exciting new episode featuring Kimberly Day, an occupational therapist who owns Sunny Day Therapy! Kim discusses her passion for teaching about executive function through her program, Kid Power, which integrates her knowledge of physical exercises, reflexes, sensory health, and mental health.

Listen as she discusses her doctoral work and follow her social media, https://linktr.ee/sunnydaytherapy, to learn about her products, services, and Story Power OT programs to enhance executive function and holistic strength.

Join us for a fascinating and enlightening conversation about advocacy, OT, and Emily's experience! Emily is an occupational therapist practicing in Syracuse, NY. She is a doctoral candidate (soon to graduate!) at Boston University's PP-OTD program. While she has had many experiences as an OT, she found her passion for the profession working with students with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Some of her meaningful occupations include hiking (especially with her dog Clover), musical theatre, spending time with her family, and puzzling at home. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Susan McGurk, clinical psychologist and faculty member at Boston University's Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. Susan shares her journey from biology major to leading expert in psychiatric rehabilitation, cognitive functioning, and employment support for individuals with serious mental illnesses. In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of occupational therapy and psychology, dive into Susan’s development of the Thinking Skills for Work Program, and learn how self-management strategies can significantly enhance vocational outcomes. Susan also offers a glimpse into her personal life, sharing her love for running, gardening, and her beloved rescue dog, Venus. Whether you're a student, clinician, or simply curious about how cognition shapes everyday life, this episode delivers both professional insight and heartwarming stories.

Join us as for a joyful discussion on the power of affirmations with Shannon and Kayla, founders of My Happy Place. Based in Australia, Shannon and Kayla seek to empower individuals through various affirmation cards. Their mission is clear: to foster wellness by integrating evidence-based therapies with nature’s restorative powers.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Temor “Tay” Amin-Arsala, a new Clinical Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program at Sargent College! Temor's clinical practice history stretches across the entire lifespan in a multitude of settings, with an additional focus on LGBTQIA+ health. This discussion dives into Temor's experiences, academic and scholarly interests, and current leadership roles, including being the AOTA Massachusetts representative.

In this episode of HealthMatters, we’re joined by Katie Walker, the Director of Finance and Administration at the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation (CPR) at Sargent College. With over 45 years of history, CPR is a leader in combining research, training, and direct services to empower individuals with mental health challenges to reclaim their place in the community. Tune in as Katie shares insights into CPR’s latest groundbreaking project: an AI-driven intervention designed to improve metacognition and transform the way people think about work. Learn how an AI coach and online modules are being integrated into mental health care, offering innovative solutions for rehabilitation and inclusion. Join us for this inspiring discussion about the future of mental health and technology!

How have perspectives of psychiatric rehabilitation shifted over time? Join us as we speak with Dr. Marianne Farkas, ScD, a clinical professor at Boston University and one of the founding members of the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation. Dr. Farkas explain four major shifts in mental health rehabilitation that have taken place, in addition to various global perspectives on mental health and the importance of person-centered care. Tune in for this informative and impactful episode!

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Sarah Barnes regarding her fascinating experience with immunology and the systems wide approach to health care. In this episode, we are trilled to welcome Dr. Barnes, an expert in immunology, to share her experience and insights into the inconnected nature of health and the human body. Drawing on her diverse educational background, Dr. Barnes provides a deep dive into the interesting world of immunology, exploring immunotherpeutics and how the body operates as a cohesive system. She shares compelling examples of how different bodily systems interact and offers valuable teaching techniques and learning strategies for understanding these complex processes. This episode also sheds light on the microbiome's critical role within immunology. Tune in for this inspiring and education conversation!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Lisa Roberts, a dedicated Sargent faculty member whose journey reflects the twists and turns many of us face in college. Like many students, Dr. Roberts wasn’t always certain where her path would lead, but her curiosity and resilience eventually brought her to the fascinating field of motor control. From her graduate research on the effects of aging on movement coordination to her postdoctoral work at the University of Alabama, where she examined how exercise and medications impact movement in older adults, Dr. Roberts has continually explored how we can age functionally and maintain our motor abilities. Join us as Dr. Roberts shares her journey, insights, and how she found her calling in understanding and enhancing how we move.

What does it mean to be a student ambassador in the BU occupational therapy program? Join us as we speak with Gracie Anderson, Karen Ma, and Sam Van Ert, each of whom serve as student ambassadors for BU OTD students. Gracie, Karen, and Sam discuss the importance of their role within Sargent College and their involvement with enrolled and prospective students.

To learn more about the BU OT department, visit www.bu.edu/sargent or find us on Instagram @bu_insideot!

Delve into social prescribing and prescibed volunteerism in this episode with Dr. Ivory Rose. As the lead of healthcare engagment for Social Prescribing USA, and an experienced occupational therapist, her expertise fills this episode important and impactful information!

Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. Hayford Avedzi, a new faculty member and clinical professor of health at Boston University, as he shares his journey to BU and his vision for contributing to the Sargent College community. Dr. Avedzi will explore the role of preventative nutrition in enhancing long-term health outcomes, discussing how proactive approaches can pave the way for healthier futures.

What role do occupational therapists play in pelvic floor therapy? Join us as we speak with Jamie Lief, OTD, OTR/L, an occupational therapist specializing in pelvic floor health. Jamie recently graduated from Boston University's Post-Professional OTD program, with her dissertation focused on providing evidence-based practice to general practitioners concerning pelvic floor health in pregnant women or women who are one year postpartum. Tune in to the episode to learn more about the importance of OT in pelvic floor therapy and how OT students can gain exposure to this specialization!

For those who may be interested in contacting Jamie, you can find her profile on LinkedIn under the name Jamie Lief or on Instagram at @nycpelvicot.

Have you considered how nursing, occupational therapy, Reiki healing, and exercise intersect? Join us in this conversation with Carol Simon as she takes us through her life journey, and her experiences in each of these professions. Her emphasis on a wellness based health care system, instead of an illness based one, stays constant through each position.

How can we effectively advocate for Occupational Therapy within the healthcare sector? Join us as we speak with Josephine Wong, a recent Post-Professional BU OTD graduate and Chinese American immigrant who founded her own hand therapy clinic to improve access to Occupational Therapy for her community. Learn how she has played a crucial role in educating fellow healthcare professionals on the significance of Occupational Therapy.

In what ways are occupational therapists best suited to support new mothers and their families? Join us as we speak with Jessica Peterson and Gayle Schwee, co-founders of Matrescence Occupational Therapy in Austin, TX. Jessica and Gayle discuss recent milestones achieved within their private practice to promote a continuous care lens in addition to providing invaluable advice to those interested in specializing in maternal health.

To learn more about Matrescence OT, visit www.momsot.com.

For those who may be interested in being involved in the maternal health movement within OT, visit maternalhealthot.org for more information.

What's the difference between speech pathology, hearing, and audiology? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jennifer Bentley, a dedicated professor in the Speech Language and Hearing Sciences department at Sargent College. A passionate audiologist, Jennifer shares her love for audiology, reflecting on her career journey, the field's advancements in oral rehabilitation/habilitation, and offering invaluable advice to students aspiring to enter this rewarding profession.

How can new graduates navigate various rehabilitation settings and career opportunities? Join us as we speak with Colleen Wagar, an accomplished physical therapist and Sargent College alumni with extensive experience in inpatient and private practice settings.

What can you expect from life and the workforce after graduation? Join us as we speak with Sargent College alumna and accomplished Speech-Language Pathologist, Jeri Blum. Hear about her experiences at Sargent College in the 70s, her journey to discovering a passion for language, and the incredible achievements she's accomplished since then.

How can integrating AI-powered apps like KorroAI enhance occupational therapy, boost treatment adherence, and improve overall functional outcomes for children both at home and in the clinic? Join us as we speak with Alyson Stover, owner of Capable Kids and associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh, along with Ryan Gallant, the owner and founder of Gallant Therapy Services. Together, they will discuss how AI + OT can support occupational therapy practitioners in delivering more efficient and effective client-centered care.

How can medical students effectively manage their time? Join us as we speak with Michael Anchan, a first year medical student at Boston University. After graduating Sargent College with a Bachelor's in Human Physiology in 2023, Michael's passion for medicine has flourished through patient interactions as an EMT and the ability to apply these interactions to his coursework.

How can we build resilience in healthcare systems when it comes to disaster preparedness? Join as as we speak with Tamara Barboza (she/her), an occupational therapist in San Antonio, Texas who worked in collaboration with the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) on the area of disaster preparedness and risk reduction (DPRR). During and after her graduate programs, Tamara worked as the Safety Operations Coordinator at a Boston teaching hospital, where she managed and led public safety operations, including emergency/disaster management drills and exercises within hospital and community settings.

How does nutrition play into our everyday lives? In this episode we have a chat with Dana J. Fryer, Boston-based dietitian and owner of Dana J. Fryer Nutrition LLC, about her nutrition journey. Dana received her Master's in Nutrition from Boston University and completed her dietetic internship at Boston Medical Center and specialized in weight management, oncology and nutrition support. She provides outpatient nutrition counseling through her private practice and at Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and also provides professional tutoring services for student dietitians to prepare them for the registered dietitian exam.

How can health practitioners best support individuals with a stutter? Join as as we speak with Caroline Brinkert– a speech-language pathologist, a fellow Terrier, director of BU's Center for Stuttering Therapy, and clinical faculty of the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

How does sleep and mental readiness affect active-duty soldiers? Join us as we chat with Curtis Lubic, an occupational therapist and an active-duty officer in the United States Army currently working in the Army's Holistic Health and Fitness team.

How might you become involved in clinical experience? Today's episode features Rachael Kammer, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Speech, Assistant Professor in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences at BU who has a special interest in evaluation and treatment of voice and swallowing in people with Parkinson’s Disease.

Who are the superheros in your everyday life? Today's episode features Kim Day, an occupational therapist who is passionate about empowering families through her superhero programs The Zookeepers and SuperMe, SuperYou, AnyBody Can Be A SuperBODY.

How can self-regulation strategies support ourselves and our work as healthcare professionals? Join us as we speak with Julie Tourigny, founder and Director of the Colorado Center for Pediatric Learning and Development, and author of Calm and In Control: Simple and Effective Strategies to Support Young Children’s Self-Regulation.

How do we navigate the US healthcare system? In today's episode we chat with Christian Hahm, a graduate ('23) from BU's Sargent College. Christian currently works as a healthcare and biopharma consultant, and is dedicated to advocating for a more efficient healthcare system that positively impacts the lives of patients on a broader scale.

How do you go about finding what path is right for you? Join us as we talk with Allie Davis, a graduate of Sargent's 4+1 (BS/MPH) program with Boston University's School of Public Health, as she discusses her choices that led to a fulfilling career in healthcare.

How can you make change while traveling the world? In today's episode we speak with Sarah Singer: a coach, organizational consultant, and mental health leader, proudly representing Boston University Sargent ('14) and School of Public Health ('15). Listen to hear about Sarah's extensive work in mental health programming with Partners in Health and her new journey as a digital nomad.

What is the role of the mind-body connection in special education? Come join us as we speak with Minal Shah, a school-based occupational therapist and graduate of the Boston University PP-OTD program. Minal shares her experience developing and implementing a pilot school program focused on using a mind-body integration approach to support behavioral regulation for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

How can we support caregivers in rural areas? Join us as we talk with Grace Muppidi, a recent graduate from BU's post-professional OTD program and winner of the STRIDE grant, as she discuses her doctoral project–the Caregiver Resilience Education (Ca.R.E.) Program. With this program, Grace aims to increase caregiver engagement, determination, self confidence, resilience, and involvement in their children's therapy in rural India.

How can students and practitioners from all fields bridge technology with healthcare? Join us as we speak with Swathi Kiran, who is the Founding Director for the Center for Brain Recovery and Professor of Neurorehabilitation in BU's Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences. Listen to hear about her experiences with telehealth and software development along with her perspective on the emerging roles of AI and technology in healthcare.

How can we better support caregivers? Join us as we speak with Courtney Joly-Lowdermilk, who has developed and directed many programs at BU Sargent College Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, such as Flourishing Families. This program supports caregivers of young adults who live with mental health conditions. Hear the stories from Kamilah Mitchell, Wen-Ling Lai, Suzanne Buchko, and Jeanne Murphy who are a part of the Flourishing Families program.

How can health practitioners provide a helping hand? Join us as we speak with Sarah Tuberty, an Occupational Therapist and disability advocate who speaks upon her experience growing up with a congenital limb difference. She is dedicated to developing the resources she wished she and her parents had access to when she was younger to help create a kinder and more inclusive world where kids feel empowered to be themselves and follow their dreams.

How can we uplift AAPI occupational therapist practitioners and community members? Join us as we talk with Vikram Pagpatan and Phillip Salvador about their leadership in AAPIOT and NBCOT respectively, and the importance of being a mentor for those in your community.

How does design impact health? Join us as we welcome Dr. Jack Dennerlein, Sargent College's new Dean as of August 1st, 2023. From working at Harvard University, Northeastern University, and now at Boston University, Dr. Dennerlein has spent nearly three decades as an internationally respected scholar, researcher, and innovator in the field of occupational safety and health – primarily in ergonomics, where his federally-funded research investigates interventions to improve worker safety, health, and well-being.

Where can occupational therapists work? Join us as we talk with Abby Kubiak, an occupational therapist and post-professional OTD student at BU about uncommon and emerging practices within occupational therapy. Listen to hear about her doctoral project and the benefit of innovation.

How can we be more inclusive in the classroom? In our research? Join us as we talk with Dr. Jesse Moreira, whose educational and research focus is on LGBTQIA2S+ equity and inclusion in STEM and physiology education.

Join us as we talk with Arpita Edke, Sargent College's Class of 2023 valedictorian. She majored in Human Physiology and minored in English, and is taking a gap year in India while working on medical school applications. Follow her journey as she discusses her life as a college student at BU and her next steps as a cardiac surgical assistant and a remote research assistant at Boston Medical Center. Be sure to listen to Arpita share her Valedictorian address in today's podcast.

How can occupational therapists advocate for neurodiversity? Join us as we talk with Bryden Carlson-Giving, a neurodivergent, doctoral student at Boston University and pediatric occupational therapy practitioner based in Minnesota. He seeks to promote strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming practices, amplify the voices of the disabilities community, and challenge ableism within healthcare and research. From helping individuals discover and embrace their sensory processing differences to collaborating with their family and education team to improve their ability to be neurodiversity-affirming, Bryden aims to maximize his client's quality of life and well-being to support authentic, neurodivergent development.

Jessica Peterson, OTR, MSOT, PMH-C a PPOTD student at Sargent College, and Gayle Schwee, OTR, MOT, PMH-C met working as occupational therapists in acute care. Together, they started Matrescence Occupational Therapy, a private practice in Austin, TX, focused on helping mothers through their transitions to or within motherhood. Jessica and Gayle felt they could fill a gap in healthcare and support for mothers by viewing their transitions in occupations, role, and identity through an occupational therapy lens. You can learn more about them and the work they do at www.momsOT.com.

Join us as we talk to Lauren Tamburello about her journey in public health, challenges working through the height of the pandemic, learning about healthcare technology, and yoga! Lauren is a double Terrier and currently works at Artera as a Sr. Patient Experience Consulting Manager.

What is AI, and what is its power in healthcare? This episode features Wesley J. Wildman, a philosopher of religion and computational social scientist in Boston University's School of Theology and Faculty of Computing Data Sciences. He also is executive director of the Center for Mind and Culture, which applies computing and data-science techniques to address pressing social problems. An ethicist who studies emerging technologies, he recently published (with Kate J. Stockly) Spirit Tech: The Brave New World of Consciousness Hacking and Enlightenment Engineering (St. Martin's).

What is trauma informed care, and why is it important? Join us as we talk with Dr. Amy Lynch, an associate professor at the College of Public Health in the Occupational Therapy Department at Temple University. Find out more about the American Occupational Therapy Association’s first ever book on trauma: Trauma, Occupation, and Participation: Foundations and Population Considerations for Occupational Therapy, which Dr. Lynch is the lead editor for.

Dr. Lori Vaughn and Dr. Scott McNeil are Co-Chairs of the OT Department at Springfield College and fellow graduates of BU's Post-Professional OTD Program. In this episode, Lori and Scott share their story of what led them from Peer Partners to Co-Chairs and friends. Lori initially worked in school-based practice and has been in academia for over 17 years teaching pediatric related content, research and a variety of professional issues. She is now transitioning out of the chair role to a full time teaching position and passing the role to her colleague and Co-Chair, Scott. Scott has close to 20 years of experience in various adult/older adult settings, fieldwork education, academia, and his scholarship is focused on diversity in OT, sucessful aging, and inclusive teaching and learning.

How can occupational therapy support sex trafficking survivors? Why the South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association's state mentorship program is vital? In this episode, we welcome Hayley Davis, OTR/L, CSRS, and CLIPP. After 20+ years of clinical experience, Hayley is currently a Post-Professional Doctoral Candidate at BU Sargent. Tune in to hear about her time in Nepal and the program she helps started there.