FEATURED TRAINEE - Rebecca Ludwig 0TR/R 

HOW DID YOU GET INTERESTED IN BSM?

I work as an Occupational therapist at the University of Kansas Medical Center and most of my patients complained of not sleeping in the hospital and before their hospitalization. After working with the same patient for several sessions I saw how their participation increased in therapy when they got better rest. This connection grabbed my attention and led me to start my PhD in rehabilitation science specifically to study sleep.

WHO ARE YOUR BSM MENTORS?

My research mentor is Dr. Catherine (Katie) Siengsukon, PT, PhD. She introduced me to CBT-I and non-pharmacological sleep interventions. She has guided me through my first year as a PhD student and has encouraged me to think outside the box on how to conduct research.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?

To set up my own clinic for sleep rehabilitation and conduct research within the clinic.

WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE FIELD OF BSM IN 10 YEARS?

I would like to see sleep be one of the primary items asked about at regular medial visits. Screening and treating sleep disturbances early can make a huge impact on someone’s recovery. I would also like to expand occupational therapy’s role in sleep rehabilitation.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO AWAY FROM THE OFFICE?

When I am not studying, I enjoy doing running road races of various distances, reading for pleasure, rock climbing, and playing with Sarco my cat.