![Melanie Tkach](https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tkach-Melanie_450x450-300x300.jpg)
PhD, MSOT, OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Research at a glance
Research Topics
Research Summary
Dr. Tkach’s research focuses on improving the lives of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families.
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Texas A&M University
- Master of Science, Occupational Therapy, Washington University in St. Louis
- Philosophy Doctorate (PhD), Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman’s University
Classes taught
- OC THR 5010 Professional Development
- OC THR 5150 Concepts of Neuroscience
- OC THR 5230 Application of Evidence-Based Practice
- OC THR 5350 Proposal Development
- OC THR 5470 Evidence-Based Practice Seminar
Research interests
Dr. Tkach is the director of the Family Adaptability and Meaningful Life Participation Lab (FAM-LIFE Lab), which seeks to develop and evaluate occupation-focused assessments and interventions to support evidence-based pediatric occupational therapy. The ultimate goal of this research is to improve participation, health, and well-being for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families (e.g., Autism, Cerebral Palsy). The FAM-LIFE laboratory specifically evaluates (1) the psychometric properties of performance-based tests of functional cognition in children and youth, (2) the effect of occupation-based coaching in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families, and (3) caregiver roles and engagement in pediatric telehealth services.
Additional certifications
- Certified coaching practitioner
Memberships
- American Occupational Therapy Association, 2009-present
- International Association of Positive Psychology Coaches, 2022-present
Publications
Publications and information regarding scholarly activity and service can be viewed in Dr. Tkach’s CV.
In the news
![](https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AOTA_480x270.jpg)
Mar. 18, 2024
Mizzou OT at AOTA Inspire Conference and Expo
![](https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MU_UnitSig_OccupationalTherapy_rgb_std_vert-1024x542.png)
Jul. 20, 2023
Mizzou OT faculty publish numerous textbooks
![](https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MU_UnitSig_OccupationalTherapy_rgb_std_vert-1024x542.png)
Apr. 14, 2023