Join us at the FOTA CONNECT LEARNING SERIES

FOTA CONNECT is a way to connect with our members, fellow OT/OTA practitioners, students, educators and the general public to discuss and learn about Occupational Therapy related topics.

Would you like to present at one of our FOTA Connect Sessions? FOTA Members may submit to present for FOTA CONNECT sessions. To submit a proposal we require course description, abstract, objectives, speaker bio and CVs for CE Broker approval. Your proposal will be reviewed and if accepted, given a presentation time slot. Submit below to be considered. 

Submit here to present proposal for FOTA CONNECT 

2026 FOTA Connect Member Sessions

Register for May 20th FOTA CONNECT

Course Title: Neuroplasticity Principles & Paired VNS Therapy in Stroke Recovery

Speaker: Casey Burke, OTR/L, CBIS, CNS

Course abstract: This course provides an evidence-based overview of neuroplasticity principles in motor learning and their application in upper-limb stroke rehabilitation, with an introduction to Paired VNS Therapy as an adjunct to these principles. Learners will explore the mechanisms of neuroplastic change, principles of motor learning, and the clinical evidence supporting vagus nerve stimulation paired with task-specific rehabilitation. Practical strategies for integrating neuroplasticity principles into high-repetition, goal-directed therapy sessions for individuals with chronic ischemic stroke will be emphasized

Course Objectives: 
At the end of this course, the learner will be able to: 1. Identify how neuroplasticity principles and task-specific training can be applied to improve performance in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) for individuals with chronic upper-extremity impairment following stroke2. Recognize the mechanisms of action of Paired VNS Therapy and its role in enhancing neuroplastic change during rehabilitation3. Identify evidence-based treatment strategies that incorporate repetition, intensity, specificity, and salience in stroke rehabilitation

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2026 Past Sessions