Date Completed
Spring 2026
Abstract
Functional Neurological Disorder is a complex neurological condition that continues to be misinterpreted and stigmatized by healthcare practitioners. Occupational therapists play a vital role in the care team for an individual with FND, as their scope of practice helps to empower individuals with this condition to return to daily, meaningful occupations. However, there remains a lack of evidence-based protocols and resources for occupational therapists to utilize when treating functional neurological disorder (FND), resulting in minimized confidence and understanding of how to treat this population. This capstone project addressed these concerns through the creation of multiple deliverables to help improve clinician confidence and understanding of FND. Specifically, a short-form protocol along with an expanded clinical pathway was created to be used as a reference for occupational therapists that work with this population. Educational modules were created and viewed by occupational therapy staff to improve knowledge surrounding the FND diagnosis, as well as the role occupational therapy has with this population. The electronic medical record (EMR) was updated to mirror the evidence-based protocol and improve clinician workflow. Education handouts were created for both patients and providers to use during treatment sessions to help the patient better understand their condition. Feedback on the deliverables was collected through anonymous pre- and post- surveys, as well as interviewing of staff to analyze feasibility and usability. Data analysis assessed changes in understanding and confidence surrounding FND, as well as sustainability surrounding the protocol. This capstone project may inform future directions for best practice in FND based care, as well as the impact it has on clinician confidence.
Document Type
Capstone
First Advisor
John Wilcox
Second Advisor
Gabrielle Petruccelli
Third Advisor
Shelby Hutchinson
College or School
CHHS
Department or Program
Occupational Therapy Department
Recommended Citation
Yuen, Kimberly, "An Evidence-Based Approach to Standardizing Occupational Therapy Services for Functional Neurological Disorder: Protocol Development and Provider Education" (2026). OTD Capstones. 1.
https://scholars.unh.edu/otd_capstones/1