(Pronouns: she/her)
Name and credentials: Amy Donabedian, OT, OTD, OTR
Degree and year: PP-OTD 2025
What are your prior degrees and at which institutions?
Bachelor of Science, University of New England, 1994
Innovation Project:
Title: “Empowering OT Generalists’ Clinical Competency Skills in Driver Rehabilitation and
Community Mobility”
I developed a course curriculum plan to increase knowledge and assessment skills for the occupational therapy generalist to improve competence and confidence to make recommendations for driving and community mobility options. This course curriculum is a multimodal educational program designed for the OT generalist interested in skill development within the practice area of driving and community mobility. The course has both synchronous and asynchronous learning modules purposefully designed to bridge the knowledge gap.
What do you think is special about the Post-Professional OTD program here at the MGH
Institute?
What truly sets this program apart are the meaningful connections you build with both your cohort and instructors. I never anticipated forming such strong bonds with people I primarily interact with through Zoom, email, and text. The level of support and genuine care offered by the program makes it truly unique. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this experience.
Why did you choose to come to this program?
I chose this program primarily because of its unique bridge aspect. As someone with a bachelor’s degree, I needed a program that would fulfill the required prerequisites, and this program offered exactly that. Additionally, the MGB affiliation played a significant role in my decision, as the opportunity to utilize vouchers and discounts was an important factor in making this program the right choice for me.What are your goals for the future after you graduate? My post-graduation goals involve implementation of my course that can be delivered both in live and pre-recorded formats, offering flexibility for the audience. Additionally, I aim to develop a consultation service focused on driving rehabilitation, aging in place, and providing support for driving retirement. This area is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on older adults’ independence and the challenges that arise when individuals are no longer safe to drive. In addition to this, one of my immediate goals is to secure a position in academia. I’ve had the privilege of guest lecturing over the years, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these experiences. My goal is to expand this by teaching a semester-long class, allowing me to engage more deeply with students and contribute to their learning and professional growth.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
My post-graduation goals involve implementation of my course that can be delivered both in live and pre-recorded formats, offering flexibility for the audience. Additionally, I aim to develop a consultation service focused on driving rehabilitation, aging in place, and providing support for driving retirement. This area is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on older adults’ independence and the challenges that arise when individuals are no longer safe to drive. In addition to this, one of my immediate goals is to secure a position in academia. I’ve had the privilege of guest lecturing over the years, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these experiences. My goal is to expand this by teaching a semester-long class, allowing me to engage more deeply with students and contribute to their learning and professional growth.