Program brings OT services to underserved community settings while providing unique learning opportunities
Belmont University's School of Occupational Therapy is pioneering an innovative educational approach through its embedded faculty program, bringing therapeutic services to community organizations while revolutionizing how future occupational therapists learn their craft.
The program places Belmont faculty members and students in community settings that traditionally don't have occupational therapy (OT) services, creating a win-win situation for both students and local organizations. Faculty members spend two semesters annually at these sites, supervising students while helping establish OT services in non-traditional settings.
"Our role is to embed ourselves into the work the facility is already doing and offer OT services to the population there," explained Candace Thrash, assistant professor and embedded faculty member. "These sites don't have OTs on staff, so it may be a community site that could benefit from OT, and the population may benefit from services that OT can provide."
The program has already established partnerships with several Nashville organizations, including GiGi's Playhouse, which serves individuals with Down syndrome, and The Branch of Nashville, a food bank offering comprehensive care services.
"We're filling a need for them, they're filling a need for us and we're filling a need for the community, all at once," said Whitney DuPree, assistant professor and embedded faculty member.
For students, the experience provides valuable insights into community-based practice. 
"Students have to be willing to think outside the typical box of what an occupational therapist would do," Thrash noted. "Allowing them to practice their skills in a non-traditional setting grows them."
The program also teaches students how to apply their skills in meaningful ways. For example, at GiGi's Playhouse, students modified activities to suit diverse needs, such as adapting cooking groups to be safer and more accessible using specialized tools like Rocker Knives, demonstrating the direct impact of occupational therapy on everyday activities.
The model represents a shift in occupational therapy education, moving beyond traditional medical settings to meet clients where they are.
"Our scope is shifting back towards incorporating occupations into people's daily lives," DuPree said. "You've got to think outside of the hospital, outside of the rehab facility. Where are people spending the majority of their time, and how can we help them in those naturalistic settings?"
As the program continues to grow, Belmont aims to expand its community partnerships while maintaining existing relationships. This innovative approach not only enhances student learning but also provides vital services to community members who might otherwise lack access to occupational therapy support.
"This program isn't just about teaching skills; it's about transforming lives and communities through dedicated service and innovative education," said Thrash. "Our students leave here not just as therapists, but as advocates equipped to make a real difference wherever they go."