Washburn University Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program’s Partnership with Topeka Rescue Mission Benefits Students and Topeka Community

Topeka, Kan. - Washburn University students pursuing an associate of applied science degree to become occupational therapy assistants (OTA) are gaining valuable hands-on experience through a growing partnership with Topeka Rescue Mission (TRM).

As part of the program's degree requirements, OTA students must complete 11 credit hours of fieldwork. Level I students complete three-credit-hour rotations focused on mental health, pediatrics and physical disabilities. Level II students complete their remaining fieldwork hours across the local community under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist (OT) or OTA during the spring semester of their second year before graduation.

This semester, several students are working at TRM to fulfill the credit hour focused on mental health. They assist with daily activities, provide supportive engagement, and help TRM guests, staff and volunteers understand sensory processing and how it affects everyday life. Many individuals accessing services experience heightened stress, trauma or environmental challenges that can influence how they process sensory information. Students introduce simple, practical strategies - such as calming techniques, sensory breaks and environmental modifications - to improve comfort, focus and participation in daily routines.

"This partnership allows students to apply what they have learned in the classroom in a real-world setting while developing empathy, cultural awareness and clinical reasoning skills," said Stephanie Sedlacek, doctor of occupational therapy (OTD) and occupational therapist, registered and licensed (OTR/L), program director and assistant professor in the OTA program, Washburn University. "Through direct interaction, they learn to adapt interventions, communicate effectively and promote dignity and independence for those they serve, shaping them into compassionate, client-centered practitioners."

For more information about Washburn University's Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, visit washburn.edu/ota.

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Founded in 1865, Washburn University is a public institution with more than 8,000 students involved in more than 200 academic programs. Washburn's programs lead to certification, associate, bachelor, master's degree or doctor of nursing practice and juris doctor degrees. The programs are offered through Washburn's six primary academic units - College of Arts & Sciences, School of Applied Studies, Gregory D. and Ronda K. Brenneman School of Business, Harmony J. Hines School of Nursing, School of Law and Washburn Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech).

All programs are offered on either the 160-acre residential campus in the heart of Topeka, Kan., at Washburn Tech's campus on Topeka's west side or in the East Topeka facility. Washburn University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and many of the individual programs have additional accreditations.

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