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Dr. Slootjes shares her journey and insights into writing a textbook based on her PhD research, which focused on occupational therapy in women’s perinatal health and matrescence. She shares her experiences of approaching and pitching to publishers, establishing networks, and translating complex academic research into practical and accessible content for a broader audience, including students, practitioners, and educators.
She highlights the challenges and strategies involved in structuring a textbook, project management, and ensuring content meets the needs of maternal health occupational therapists and integrates evidence-based theory with real-world application. The session aims to inspire and encourage others interested in this specialist field, and textbook writing and publishing as a knowledge translation opportunity.
To further develop an understanding of matrescence and perinatal health
To recognise the value and opportunities for knowledge translation
To develop broader awareness of the evidence-based role for OTs in women’s and maternal health
Dr. Hannah Slootjes
Dr. Hannah Slootjes is an occupational therapist/academic (‘pracademic’), and lecturer at La Trobe University, with a special interest in women’s perinatal transitions and matrescence. She completed her PhD in 2022, focusing on the role of occupational therapists in perinatal health. Her research introduced the Person-Centered Occupational Model of Matrescence (POMM) and Co-Occupation Engagement Spectrum (CES), tools designed to enhance understanding and support mother-becoming journeys.
She is passionate about knowledge translation and bridging the research-practice gap and runs a private practice offering services tailored to women and girls, and has recently written and edited a textbook on the topic with over 60 local and international co-authors – due for publication in May 2025.
This lecture was created to support professionals committed to advancing maternal and women’s health. Once inside, you’ll be able to watch on your own time and revisit the content whenever you need.
