Using Magic Tricks in Occupational Therapy

Kevin Spencer is an award-winning illusionist and internationally recognized expert in the therapeutic and educational applications of magic. Dr. Spencer holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s in arts and Academic Interdisciplinary Education, and a PhD in Education with a focus on Special Education.

“I enthusiastically champion this exceptional text as a vital contribution to occupational therapy. It masterfully integrates theory, evidence, and creative practice while maintaining unwavering focus on occupation-centered intervention, modeling how clinicians can think critically rather than relying on protocol-driven technique. The text's greatest strength lies in consistently bridging underlying body structures and functions with functional relevance, participation, and real-world application—precisely what contemporary practice demands, particularly in pediatric and family-centered settings. This work transforms how therapists and students conceptualize intervention across the lifespan. I wholeheartedly recommend it as an invaluable resource for education and clinical excellence in occupation-centered care.”Kaitlin Ploeger, OTD OTR/L BCP, assistant professor, Department of Brain Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas“Magic Tricks in Occupational Therapy blends creativity and clinical purpose, showing how simple magic tricks can boost motivation, engagement, and therapeutic outcomes. A refreshing, innovative resource for every Occupational Therapy practitioner.”Kimberly Meany, MS OTR/L, academic fieldwork coordinator, Raritan Valley College, NJ“I am enthusiastic about what you will find in these pages. This book equips occupational therapy practitioners with more than simply a collection of tricks. It offers a framework for selecting, grading, and documenting magic-based interventions; connecting performance demands to functional outcomes; and keeping client-centeredness and cultural humility at the forefront. Most importantly, it philosophically reinforces the importance of this in all aspects of OT intervention. By keeping our focus on meaningful, purposeful occupations driven by volition, we will be reminded that joy and rigor are not competing goals and can coexist in powerful, evidence-informed practice.”Gavin R. Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, chair & professor, Department of Occupational Therapy School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA

• PART 1: FOUNDATIONS OF MAGIC THERAPY 1. The Healing Art of Wonder: Magic in Occupational Therapy 2. Clinical Applications and Theoretical Frameworks for Magic-Based Interventions in Occupational Therapy 3. Psychological and Neurological Underpinnings of Magic in OT PART 2: EVIDENCE AND APPLICATIONS 4. Magic-Based Interventions in Occupational Therapy: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Future Directions 5. Trialability and Transformation: Exploring the Adoption of Magic-Based Interventions in Occupational Therapy Education 6. Theory to Practice: Structured Application of Magic-Based Interventions in Occupational Therapy PART 3: THE MAGIC TOOLKIT 7. The Challenge Knot 8. The Instant Knot 9. The Floating Pencil 10. Linking Paper Clips 11. Jumping Rubber Band (Single and with Barrier) 12. Double Jumping Rubber Bands (Double and with Barrier) 13. The Vanishing Cotton Swab PART 4: PRACTICE AND IMPLEMENTATION 14. Measuring Performance Competency: Development and Validation of the Hocus Focus Magic Performance Evaluation Scale 15. Adapting Magic-Based Interventions for Neurodivergent Populations: Evidence-Based Strategies for Autism Spectrum Disorder 16. Ethical and Cultural Considerations in Magic-Based Occupational Therapy Practice 17. Billing and Documentation Practices for Magic-Based Therapeutic Interventions PART 5: FUTURE DIRECTION 18. Expanding the Reach and Boundaries of Magic-Based Therapeutic Practice 19. The Next Frontier: Multidisciplinary Application of Magic Therapy 20. The Final Curtain