The 'Evidence-Based Occupational Therapy Applications – VIII' event was organized by the Department of Occupational Therapy of Üsküdar Üniversitesi Institute of Health Sciences and the Music Therapy Application and Research Center (MÜTEM). Led by Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova, Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Institute of Health Sciences, the event emphasized the importance of scientifically based approaches in occupational therapy. During the online event, experts in the field addressed topics such as early intervention, sensory integration, the Floortime method, polyvagal theory, and neurodiversity, conveying the necessity of applying occupational therapy with a holistic and evidence-based approach.
The online event was attended by Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova, Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Institute of Health Sciences, Erg. Emel Gençtürk, Dr. Aymen Balıkçı, P.T. Ebru Albayrak, Dr. Egemen Nakışçı, P.T. İlkan Mursal, and Erg. Barış Uzundağ.
The program was moderated by Erg. Emel Gençtürk.
Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova: “To provide real benefit, we need proven scientific data”
Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova, Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Institute of Health Sciences, delivered the opening speech within the program; “Today, we have gathered here to collectively think about and discuss ways to provide higher quality and more effective services to individuals. We now know that relying on just one method is not enough. To provide real benefit, it is of great importance to resort to applications based on proven scientific data, approaches that consider the individual's preferences, and the opinions of expert professionals in the field. Our aim is to determine the most accurate path by bringing together clinical evidence obtained through scientific research. At this point, an interdisciplinary intervention model based on interdisciplinary cooperation becomes inevitable. Because we know that true success lies not only in producing knowledge but also in applying this knowledge in the field, touching the lives of individuals.”
Dr. Aymen Balıkçı: “Early intervention programs support child development”
Within the program, Dr. Aymen Balıkçı shared his presentation titled “Early Intervention in Occupational Therapy” with the participants. Balıkçı stated; “It has been scientifically proven that interventions in early childhood are decisive in children's development. In this process, occupational therapy plays a critical role, especially for children aged 0-3 at risk. Early intervention programs aim to support the child's development, as well as increase family functionality and strengthen the parent-child bond. Occupational therapy, on the other hand, offers holistic development by supporting the child's participation in daily life activities such as play, communication, nutrition, sleep, and social interaction. Occupational therapy programs such as Ayres Sensory Integration and HEP Approach show positive effects on cognitive, motor, and language development, especially in premature babies. Therefore, it is of great importance that occupational therapy gains a wider place in early intervention programs and that scientific studies in the field are increased.”
P.T. Ebru Albayrak: “Sensory integration is a fundamental neurodevelopmental process”
In the program, P.T. Ebru Albayrak made her presentation titled “From Sensation to Emotion, From Emotion to Perception”. Albayrak stated; “Sensory integration is a fundamental neurodevelopmental process that enables an individual to perceive their body, emotions, and environment. Sensory experiences acquired from infancy shape a child's physical, mental, and emotional development. While genetic factors, birth type, prematurity, and traumas affect sensory development, neglect and inconsistencies can negatively impact attachment and sensory integration processes. Sensory integration disorders can lead to problems in many areas such as attention, learning, behavior, speech, motor skills, and toilet habits. Since traumas weaken the body-mind connection, healing should be targeted with somatic and sensory approaches in both children and adults. Therefore, sensory development is the foundation of cognitive and emotional competencies, and supporting it with appropriate sensory inputs in the early period is of great importance.”
Dr. Egemen Nakışçı: “Floortime is a play-based method”
Within the program, Dr. Egemen Nakışçı shared his presentation titled “DIRFloortime and Sensory Integration” with the participants. Nakışçı stated; “Occupational therapy is a holistic approach that covers sensory, motor, cognitive, and psycho-social areas, aiming to increase an individual's independence in daily life. Floortime, on the other hand, is a play-based method that supports a child's emotional and social development. When these two approaches are used together, the child is supported in terms of both motor and communicative skills. The therapist aims to increase developmental progress and participation in daily life by structuring interactions according to the child's interests and needs.”
P.T. İlkan Mursal: “The polyvagal approach in occupational therapy supports an individual's capacity to regulate their nervous system”
In the program, P.T. İlkan Mursal made his presentation titled “Polyvagal Approach in Occupational Therapy: Balance the Nervous System, Participate in Life”. Mursal stated; “Polyvagal theory, developed by Stephen Porges, is a neurobiological theory that explains the role of the vagus nerve in social connection, defensive responses, and physiological regulation. This theory offers a new perspective in understanding trauma, stress, and emotional regulation issues. The polyvagal approach in occupational therapy aims to increase participation in daily life through sensory-motor based interventions, by supporting an individual's capacity to regulate their nervous system. When individuals feel safe, it facilitates their active participation in the therapeutic process. This approach is effective in conditions such as sensory processing disorders, autism, anxiety, and PTSD, contributing to the creation of safe therapeutic environments. It also provides occupational therapists with a neuroscience-based holistic intervention perspective.”
Erg. Barış Uzundağ: “The aim is not to conform individuals to norms but to improve their quality of life”
Within the program, Erg. Barış Uzundağ shared his presentation titled “Neurodiversity-Focused Occupational Therapy: What Are We Changing? What Are We Supporting?” with the participants. Uzundağ stated; “Neurodiversity views neurodevelopmental differences such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia not as disorders but as a natural part of human diversity. This approach brings about a significant change in the understanding of therapy. The aim is not to conform individuals to norms but to improve their quality of life and respect individual experience. The language used in therapy, who sets the goals, and the child's self-perception are re-evaluated from this perspective. Prioritizing space for the child's interests, accepting alternative communication methods, and supporting emotional regulation gains importance. The collaboration established by the therapist adapting to the child's pace increases trust and participation. This approach not only provides a more inclusive and respectful direction for children but also for the relationships built with them.”