Dissertation in Practice Defense for Lisa Vento

Date: Monday, May 18 2026

Time: 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.ET

Zoom Link: Available upon request. Contact Heather Santa at hms66@pitt.edu.

In-Person Location: Physical Activity Research Center (PARC), Room 230. 32 Oak Hill Court Pittsburgh, PA 15261

Dissertation Title: "Improving Occupational Therapy Students’ Knowledge, Perceptions, and Practice Confidence in Addressing Patient Substance Use

Dissertation Description: Substance use remains a significant public health concern, and addressing its impact requires the involvement of diverse healthcare professionals across practice settings, including occupational therapists. However, evidence suggests these practitioners acknowledge gaps in their preparedness to address substance use in practice largely due to insufficient education and training, which contributes to limited knowledge, skill development, and confidence. These deficits decrease practitioners’ willingness and ability to engage in substance use–related patient care. Given occupational therapists’ unique role in working with individuals across the lifespan and in varied settings, there is a critical need to better prepare students to support individuals with substance use upon entering practice. This dissertation in practice focused on increasing occupational therapy students’ knowledge, perceptions, and practice confidence related to substance use care through the implementation of an educational program. 

Dissertation Committee: Dr. Sirry Alang (Chair), Dr. Sharon Ross, and Dr. Erin Mathia