Melanie M Tkach

Melanie M Tkach is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Missouri, College of Health Sciences. She holds a PhD in Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University, a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Texas A&M University.

• Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Texas A&M University
  • Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Washington University in St. Louis
  • PhD in Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman’s University

Dr. Tkach directs the Family Adaptability and Meaningful Life Participation Lab (FAM-LIFE Lab), focusing on occupation-focused assessments and interventions for children with neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism and Cerebral Palsy. Her work emphasizes improving participation, health, and caregiver engagement in pediatric telehealth services.

She has presented at multiple AOTA Inspire Conferences and co-authored textbooks. Her research evaluates (1) functional cognition assessments, (2) occupation-based coaching, and (3) caregiver roles in telehealth. She is a Certified Coaching Practitioner and member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and International Association of Positive Psychology Coaches.