Occupational Therapy’s Valuable Role in Visual Screening & Interventions

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Course Description

This 2‑hour interactive workshop is designed to provide Occupational Therapy practitioners with practical knowledge and skills related to visual screening, assessment, and intervention for adults with neurologic conditions. Participants will review eye anatomy and explore common visual deficits seen in adult neurologic populations and gain a clearer understanding of Occupational Therapy’s distinct and essential role in identifying, addressing, and documenting visual impairments as part of functional performance. The course will focus on how to complete and accurately document basic visual assessment measures within occupational therapy practice. A hands‑on lab component will allow participants to practice evidence-informed treatment strategies and apply visual interventions to functional, real‑world scenarios. This workshop is intended for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants working in acute care hospital, inpatient rehab, or outpatient settings.

Speakers

Alyssa DeCarlo, MS, OTR/L, MSCS, CSRS, LSVT graduated with her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from Misericordia University in 2015. After graduation, Alyssa started as a staff occupational therapist at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital in acute care in Easton, PA. She then transitioned to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation where she spent 6 years honing her skills in the inpatient rehabilitation completing her LSVT BIG and PWR!Moves for the Parkinson’s population as well as obtained her MSCS through CMSC. Alyssa relocated to outpatient rehab at Cleveland Clinic in 2022 and shares her time between the Mellen Center and Twinsburg Edison locations where she specializes in wheelchair evaluations, acts as the OT representative for ALS Clinic, sits on multiple committees and assists as moderator or presenter, and has run a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist study group to assist others in developing their skills and knowledge with the MS population and obtain their certification as well. She currently sits on the Ohio OT Association Board as the Career Development Special Interest Section Leader and continues to expand her engagement within the MS Community by collaborating with MSAA, NMSS, and other groups/companies to provide educational opportunities for patients, families, and clinicians alike. She recently became credentialed as a Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist. In her spare time, Alyssa enjoys bowling, karaoke, crafting, and traveling to visit friends and family.

Christina Duncan, OTR/L, CDRS graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Human Performance from The University of Southern Mississippi in 2007. She received her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from Tennessee State University in 2010. After graduation, Christina started as a staff occupational therapist at Cleveland Clinic in 2011 in inpatient rehabilitation at the main campus hospital. She also has experience in the acute care setting, across many teams within the hospital including neurology, oncology, medical-surgical, and cardiac patients. She transitioned to outpatient at the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis in 2018 where she specializes in driving rehabilitation, functional capacity exams as well as treating various neurological disorders. In her spare time, Christina enjoys traveling, attending Cleveland sporting events and spending time with her husband and 2 children.

Laura Kovach, MS, OTR/L is an occupational therapist at the Fairview Wellness Center in Rocky River, OH. She has worked in acute care and outpatient neuro care for 16 years. She has a passion for low vision rehabilitation stemming from a connection with her mother-in-law who suffered from diabetic retinopathy in her mid-40’s. This interest in helping her achieve her personal goals helped pave the way for her treatment today. She also is a clinical team leader at her location supporting OT’s and other clinical staff. She has three school-aged children and spends a lot of time outdoors watching soccer games, band performances, and gardening.

Content Level

Intermediate: This level assumes the audience has general familiarity with the literature and professional practice. The focus of the presentation is on increased understanding and application by the participants.

Practice Areas

Community-based Practice; Health and Wellness; Rehabilitation