Clinical Experiences

Fieldwork I - Monday Night Social 

Monday Night Social is a weekly, occupation-based program at Sacred Heart University's Center of Healthcare Education designed to support adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities in developing social participation and sensorimotor skills. The group incorporates structured activities such as games, movement-based tasks, and shared meal preparation to promote engagement, communication, and independence in a supportive environment. As an occupational therapy student facilitator, I focused on creating and adapting activities to meet diverse cognitive, sensory, and social needs while also supporting participation during group interactions and mealtime routines. I collaborated closely with speech-language pathology students to address both social communication and functional participation goals. My favorite part of this experience was building meaningful connections with group members and helping each individual reach their full potential in a fun, engaging, and inclusive environment. 

Fieldwork I - Bethel Health and Rehab Center - SNF

Bethel Health Care Center is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility that helps adults with a variety of medical and functional needs. During this experience, I observed and assisted with occupation-based interventions addressing activities of daily living, functional mobility, balance, endurance, and overall independence. I helped implement treatment activities such as laundry tasks, meal preparation, functional reaching, standing tolerance activities, and therapeutic exercise while also incorporating safety awareness, energy conservation, and appropriate use of adaptive equipment. I had the opportunity to work with individuals with conditions such as heart failure, COPD, and other complex medical needs, which helped me better understand how medical conditions can affect participation in everyday occupations. I also gained experience observing clinical reasoning, documentation, discharge planning, and the process of grading activities based on each patient's abilities and goals. My favorite part of this experience was being able to take what I have learned in the classroom and apply it with patients. It helped me feel more comfortable planning treatments and understanding why certain activities were chosen for each patient.

Volunteering

Summer Fitness Group

I volunteered with the Summer Fitness Group at Sacred Heart University, a program that helps young adults with a range of neurodevelopmental abilities learn about fitness, healthy nutrition, and overall wellness. I'm always grateful for opportunities like this to connect with the community, build meaningful relationships, and support others in a fun and inclusive environment. 

Professional Events & CEs