2015 Annual MOTA Conference
Friday and Saturday April 10-11, 2015
Register ONLINE at www.mtota.org
2 Day
MOTA member: $325
nonmember $400
1 Day
MOTA member: $225
nonmember $300
Vendor/Student
2 day $150
1 Day $100
**Please Note: If you are currently not a MOTA member you will need to write a separate
check for membership dues or renew your membership online first in order to register and
pay at the MOTA member rate.**
**If you plan on attending the Friday Pediatric course (TAKE FIVE! “How Does Your
Engine Run?”® ) there will be a $30.00 added charge to your conference fee to include
you booklet for the course. **
The Big Horn Resort
1801 Majestic Lane
Billings, MT 59102
406.839.9300
1.877.995.8999
www.thebighornresort.com
MOTA room block rate, until March 25th
SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES
Mara Arlington MPT, DPT – Owner
graduated from the University of
Montana in Missoula with her Master’s degree in physical therapy in 2001. She initially
worked in Alaska at a rural hospital experiencing everything “the final frontier” has to
offer. She and her husband then returned to the Bitterroot valley in 2002, and currently
live in the Florence area with their 2 sons and daughter. She has worked in several
outpatient therapy clinics and hospitals throughout the region. She became the owner of
Florence Therapy and Wellness in 2008, and began the Rocky Mountain Riding Institute
hippotherapy program in 2009. Mara works full-time at the outpatient clinic as well as at
the barn, treating patients with their physical therapy needs. Mara received her DPT in
physical therapy in 2012 from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions with an
emphasis in pediatrics and capstone literature project in hippotherapy. She is currently
pursuing specialist certification both in orthopedics as well as pediatrics. Mara’s hobbies
include spending time with her family, going to the cabin, running, hunting and horseback
riding. She is very active in her career and has presented at many local venues, as well
as at state colleges and community events.
Chris Phipps, OTR/L
is a registered, licensed occupational therapist with more
than 35 years of experience. She has practiced in the states of Minnesota and Montana
in both private practice and school based services, recently returning to Montana and the
Bitterroot Valley. Her primary scope of practice is in pediatrics, including early
intervention/0-3 years of age as well as with sensory processing disorders, including
Autism Spectrum diagnosis. Chris also has experience with upper extremity rehabilitation.
Chris has completed extensive continuing education in many areas of OT; emphasizing
in visual fine motor difficulties, Sensory Processing Disorder, and hippotherapy. She
works part time for a Missoula school district and part time with Florence Therapy and
Wellness, both in the clinic as well as the horse arena services. In her free time, Chris
likes to spend time with her family, go camping, work in her gardening, and do quilting;
but especially loves being a grandma to her 9 grandchildren.
Jo Acton
is a native Montanan who was raised on a ranch in the eastern part of the
state. She has been involved with dogs for many years and has been a Pet Partner
evaluator/handler since 1996. She has had a number of therapy animals and recently
her Affenpinscher Kelly joined Jo in becoming a certified HOPE AACR Canine Team. Her
involvement with dogs includes not only therapy, but competing in conformation. She has
traveled around the world with her dogs to compete. Jo worked in corrections for over 18
years with juveniles and adults and has incorporated therapy animals into these settings
to facilitate the residents desire to change.
Mary Martin and Ellie,
Mary’s HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response Canine,
reside in Bozeman, Montana. Mary taught in both Oregon and Montana and had the
privilege of working with students at both the elementary and high school level over the
course of her 25 year career. Since her retirement in 2004, she has been volunteering in
many arenas. In 2006, she has had the opportunity of working alongside her canine
partners visiting within Elder Care Homes, the local area hospital, the R.E.A.D. program
at the Bozeman Library, as well as responding to local, state, and national call-outs within
communities experiencing a crisis or disaster. She is currently the Regional Director for
HOPE AACR’s Rocky Mountain Region.
Ginger Walls, PT, MS, NCS, ATP/SMS
is a Clinical Education Specialist
for Permobil. Ginger has over 25 years of experience as a physical therapist in the area
of neuro rehab and wheelchair seating and mobility. Ginger has provided a variety of
continuing education courses and lectures in the area of seating/mobility, including ISS,
RESNA, and the PVA Summit. In her previous role, she was Regional Director of
the Outpatient PT/OT Clinic and Seating/Mobility Program at Medstar NRH in
Washington, D.C.
Carla Cay Williams OT/L
is an occupational therapist and owner of KidPower
Therapy Associates in Albuquerque, NM. Carla Cay coordinates occupational therapy,
physical therapy, and speech/language therapy services for children across many
settings and environments. She has provided a wide variety of treatment techniques
including sensory integration, combined speech/language and motor therapy, and social
skills groups that implement the Alert Program®. Carla Cay has been a colleague of Mary
Sue Williams and Sherry Shellenberger since the inception of the Alert Program ® in 1987
and continues to further the program’s concepts. In addition to her innovative treatment,
Carla Cay lectures internationally on sensory processing and consults with parents,
teachers, and therapists in school, clinic, and home settings. She is the sole international
trainer for the Alert Program®.
Paula H. Kitzenberg OTR/L, MHA, SIPT earned her Bachelors of Science
degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota in 1992. She
graduated from Montana State University-Billings in 2000 with a Master’s Degree in
Health Administration. She has received specialized training from the University of
Southern California which resulted in her sensory integration (SIPT) certification. Paula
has held many clinical and leadership positions including lead therapist, program
manager, and clinical director. She has also owned and operated her own private
occupational therapy practice. She has worked in a wide variety of clinical settings but
has specialized in pediatrics since the spring of 2001 with an emphasis on sensory
integration dysfunction and autism. In the past, she has also served as an adjunct
professor in the health administration program at MSU-B. She is currently employed by
the University of Mary and serves as an assistant professor and site coordinator for the
Billings program.
Jennifer Merchant
Shellie Syzmd, OTR/L (Sensational Kids, LLC, Sheridan, WY)
is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Sensational Kids, LLC. Shellie
graduated in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State
University. The first few years of her career were based in outpatient adult therapy. After
moving to New Mexico, she began working in the public schools which she continued
after moving to Colorado. In 2007, Shellie returned to her hometown of Sheridan,
Wyoming and began working at the Child Development Center. Throughout her career,
she recognized that the educational setting can’t always provide the intensity of therapy
needed to help children succeed across all environments. In 2010, she opened her first
outpatient pediatric clinic specializing in the treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder.
Recognizing that the need for additional therapy for children is great in many areas of the
state, she has since opened clinics in Cheyenne and Casper.
Jay A. Murray, CPO
has over 23 years of experience in the Prosthetic and
Orthotic field. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with a
specialization in Ergonomics and Biomechanics, from Dalhousie University, Halifax, N.S.
Jay received his post graduate training in Clinical Methods of Orthotics and Prosthetics
from George Brown College in Toronto, Ontario. He is certified in Prosthetics and
Orthotics by the American Board for Certification. His practice experience has included
all aspects of Orthotic and Prosthetic care. He has worked extensively with pediatrics and
adults as well as the geriatric population. He has advanced training in many of the most
technologically advanced devices being utilized in the O&P field. This includes extensive
knowledge and experience with Upper Extremity Myoelectric devices and Multiarticulated hands, Microprocessor knee units, Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and Stance
control KAFO's. Jay has been invited to present at national conventions and meetings on
a variety of subjects, including ground breaking utilization of an electronic Orthotic Knee
Joint. He plays adult Hockey in Billings and is involved with the USA Hockey National
Champion Montana ThunderBlades hockey program as a coach, and with the
Yellowstone Soccer Association as a coach. Jay and his family love the outdoors and
they enjoy golf, skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Valerie D. Maeker, OTD, OTR/L
has been an occupational therapists since
1995. She graduated with a BS in OT from the University of Texas Medical Branch. She
has a master’s degree in Gerontology from the University of Utah (2000) and a doctorate
of occupational therapy from Creighton University (2014). She has spent her career
specializing in neuro rehabilitation, specifically spinal cord injuries and strokes. She is
Neuro-IFRAH certified & NDT certified. She has worked in a variety of settings including
acute care, inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab and skilled nursing. She ran the Montana
Spinal Cord Spinal Support Group from 2006-2008. She is the co-founder of the Alaska
Spinal Cord Support Group. Her personal interest include spending time with her
husband and four children and traveling.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
FRIDAY:
KEYNOTE: Hippotherapy (Mara Arlington, MPT, DPT and Chris Phipps, OTR/L) 1
Contact Hour
Animal-Assisted Activities/Therapy (AAA/T) and HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis
Response (AACR) teams (Jo Acton; Ms. Mary Martin, Regional Director of HOPE
AACR) 1 Contact Hour
The Animal-Human Bond has never been more actively explored than is happening in
America today! Across our nation people are seeking ways in which animals can ethically
and professionally be used in support of others within the workplace. So it is important to
ask ourselves, “Do these animals need to be trained, screened for appropriate behaviors,
and registered or certified with an overseeing organization? And, how does one go about
securing the information, training, and screening?” Join Jo Acton and Mary Martin, to
learn the answers to these questions and so much more about Animal Assisted Pet
Therapy and Animal-Assisted Crisis Response and how these two areas may help you
when thinking about the work you are doing with your clients.
MOBILITY: Power Mobility Assessment: The Process from Intake to Fitting (Ginger
Walls, PT, NCS, ATP/SMS) 2 Contact Hours / 0.2 CEU This session will help clinicians
and providers conduct an effective power mobility assessment. All components of a
successful mobility evaluation will be reviewed including subjective interview, mat
evaluation, driving simulation, prescription considerations, and delivery/fitting of the
equipment. The framework described will follow the guidelines published in the “RESNA
Wheelchair Service Provision Guide.” Attendees will learn how to better observe the client
neurologically and physically to determine the most appropriate input device and
programming parameters to meet the client’s functional needs. Additionally, the client’s
environment, activities and participation will also be considered to determine the most
appropriate power wheelchair prescription.
MOBILITY: Funding Solutions: Overcoming Obstacles (Ginger Walls, PT, NCS,
ATP/SMS) 1 Contact Hours. / 0.1 CEU
This session is designed to help the rehab team empower consumers to obtain funding
for the equipment they need. It will also address specific elements and techniques to
help clinicians write a powerful letter of medical necessity for mobility equipment. This
course offers the clinician tools and knowledge to help a consumer be more successful
in obtaining funding for appropriate equipment to meet their functional mobility needs.
Current funding trends and federal regulations will be discussed. Examples of
successful cases and letters of medical necessity will also be presented.
MOBILITY: Power Seat Functions: Examining the Myths (Ginger Walls, PT, NCS,
ATP/SMS) 1 Contact Hours. / 0.1 CEU
Power seating is often prescribed to manage the risk of pressure ulcers, a potentially
serious complication for individuals who use wheelchairs. There is much evidence
suggesting the use of power seat functions will reduce the risk of pressure ulcers;
however, clinicians sometimes have negative perceptions about the use of certain seat
functions. Additionally, there is interesting research about the usage patterns of the
various power seat functions that my impact the prescription of these features. The
purpose of this session is to examine the research that is available and dispel the myths
surrounding power seating. Also, through anatomical perspectives, the use of case
studies and current research, attendees will better understand the importance of a
holistic assessment for proper prescription of seat functions for functioning as well as
management of pressure in the seated individual. Time will also be allotted for
audience participation and discussion.
MOBILITY: The Power of Access Across the Lifespan (Ginger Walls, PT, NCS,
ATP/SMS) 2 Contact Hours. / 0.2 CEUs
Imagine living your life with no control of your body or environment. Unfortunately,
many people living with physical mobility limitations also lack control of their
surroundings. As a rehab team, we can help consumers re-gain control of their life
through assistive technology. This session will help clinicians and providers make
neurological and physical observations to determine the most appropriate access
method for functional power wheelchair driving. Beyond driving, various options for
controlling the environment will also be discussed. Hands-on learning experience with
power wheelchairs using a variety specialty input devices and environmental controls
will be provided. Client case studies will be used to demonstrate possible solutions for
individuals across the lifespan.
PEDIATRICS: TAKE FIVE! “How Does Your Engine Run?”® Introductory Alert
Program® Theory and Activities (Carla Cay Williams, OT/L ) 6 Contact Hours “This
presentation will review An Introduction to the “How Does Your Engine Run?”® The Alert
Program® for Self-Regulation (Williams and Shellenberger, 1992). Through the Alert
Program®, children learn a repertoire of strategies that strengthen their abilities to learn,
interact with others, and work or play. Participants will be introduced to the Alert
Program’s® information covered in Take Five! Staying Alert at Home and School
(Williams and Shellenberger, 2001). This book is chock full of activities to use directly
with students or to make recommendations to other school staff and parents. Whether
or not participants are familiar with the Alert Program®, all will learn new, practical
strategies to help student’s engines to run “just right.” This training will emphasize
functional application of sensory integration theory for use at home and school.”
Participants will be required to register for this course NO LATER THAN MARCH
25TH and purchase the Introductory Booklet, Take Five! book, and materials for
“hands on” self-regulation learning: $30.00 per person. This will be added into the
conference fee.
SATURDAY
PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS: General Overview (Jay A. Murray, CPO) 2
Contact Hours
This general overview of Prosthetics and Orthotics in General including the biomechanical
basis of why we do what we do - with specifics geared towards the upper
extremity. Particularly the innovations with Myo-electric and multi-articulated hands in UE
Prosthetics.
PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS: Innovations in Upper Extremity Orthotics (Jay A.
Murray, CPO) 2 Contact Hours
NEURO: Spinal Cord Injury: Basic Overview, Assessment and Intervention ideas
along the continuum of Care & Best Practice Guidelines (Valerie D. Maeker, OTD,
OTR/L) 2 Contact Hours
This course is designed to meet the needs of clinicians with all levels of experience. The
overall goal is to help each individual feel more comfortable with addressing the needs of
clients with a spinal cord injury. If you have ever been apprehensive about treating a
client with a spinal cord injury, then this is the course for you. This course will provide a
general overview of SCI facts and statistics and lead into practical evaluation and
treatment ideas along the continuum of care. Best practice guidelines will also be
discussed. If you send specific questions relating to SCI, please send them to
vmaeker@umary.edu two weeks prior to the conference and I will make sure that these
questions are included in the presentation.
PEDIATRICS: Yoga (Jennifer Merchant) 2 Contact Hours This course will focus on the
functional integration of yoga techniques and strategies into the daily life of a family. The
information will be especially beneficial for families/children who have sensory processing
challenges. The information will be a combination of information sharing via handout,
visual demonstrations, and participation (as people feel comfortable).
PEDIATRICS: Handwriting: Assessments and Interventions (Paula H. Kitzenberg
OTR/L, MHA, SIPT ) 2 Contact Hours This presentation will outline the current
handwriting assessments and programs including TRIC’s, FM Olympics, Callirobics,
Loops & Other Groups, On the Road to Writing, and Handwriting Without Tears. This
presentation will then compare/contrast the programs and discuss various intervention
strategies. All of the assessments programs will be available for the participants to review.
PEDIATRIC: Is It Behavior, Sensory, or Both?.(Shellie Szmyd, OTR/L ) 2 Contact
Hours This is a question frequently asked by therapists, parents and educators. It can
be difficult to distinguish between the two and often times they are intertwined. In this
workshop, we will overview the sensory system, describe dysfunction in each system
and define behaviors that may occur as a result of the dysfunction.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 2015 MOTA CONFERENCE
FRIDAY APRIL 10, 2015
7:00-7:30
**Registration**
7:30 -9:30
9:30-11:30
Keynote speakers: Animal Assisted Therapy
Mobility
11:30-1:00
-
Pediatrics-The Alert Program
Lunch (provided by MOTA)
Vendor Introduction
1:00-3:00
Mobility
3:00-3:15
Pediatrics – The Alert Program
**Break (Networking/Vendors)**
3:15-5:15
Mobility
Pediatrics – The Alert Program
5:30-8:00
Social Hour/Networking
(Hors D’Oeuvres provided by MOTA)
SATURDAY APRIL 11, 2015
7:45-8:00
8:00-10:00
**Registration**
Orthotics and Prosthetics
10:00-10:30
10:30-12:30
**Break (Networking/Vendors)**
Orthotics and Prosthetics
12:30-2:00
2:00 – 4:00
Pediatrics - Yoga
Pediatrics - Handwriting
MOTA Board Meeting (Lunch Provided by MOTA)
Neuro
Pediatrics - Sensory