Community Independence Occupational Therapy Program

Dr. Tyminski mentors students interested in occupational therapy programs for individuals experiencing homelessness and other marginalized populations in the Community Independence Occupational Therapy Program. Students will have the opportunity to work within these populations through a partnership with St. Patrick’s Center (SPC). SPC is a local organization whose mission is aimed at housing people who are homeless and diagnosed with mental illness by (1) removing barriers to housing, (2) empowering individuals and families to access resources, and (3) providing the necessary supports to ensure long-term housing stability. Dr. Tyminski and her students work to develop programs and engage in clinical research to improve the occupational participation and functional independence of individuals experiencing homelessness and mental illness. Students should consider working with Dr. Tyminski if they are interested in working in the community with underserved populations or have an interest in program development and needs assessment within community agencies.

General Description of Student Activities

Students will engage with and spend time interacting with SPC clients to develop communication skills and an understanding of occupational therapy’s distinct role within this population and the occupational concerns associated with homelessness and mental illness. Students will provide evidence-based assessment and interventions in the program under a licensed occupational therapist's supervision. Students must be able to transport themselves to and from the community site and shall expect approximately six hours per week of time dedicated to their mentored scholarship experience.

Examples of Projects

Continued pilot testing and development of an assessment manual to accompany the Activity Card Sort- Advancing Inclusive Participation
Needs assessment and program development for menstruation management in marginalized populations
Exploration of functional cognition and occupation in the homeless population
Development of interprofessional education programs for students engaging in the homeless population
Program development in the areas of health management and maintenance occupations, sleep, work or volunteering
Evaluation of the effectiveness of occupational therapy services for individuals experiencing homelessness