Virtual Support Group
February 4, 2026
12:00 PM
This month’s Virtual Support Group, Sex, Intimacy, and Parkinson’s, explores how Parkinson’s disease affects sex and intimacy and highlights the occupational therapist’s role in supporting clients and partners through education, adaptive strategies, and meaningful participation in intimate occupations.
Melissa Werz, OTD, OTR/L, CDRS, is an occupational therapist with twelve years of experience specializing in neurological rehabilitation at Duke University Health. She provides care across several of Duke’s specialty clinics, including the ALS Clinic, Parkinson’s Disease Clinic, and Huntington’s Disease Clinic.
In addition to her clinical work, Melissa is a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist, conducting comprehensive community mobility and driving evaluations. She also serves as faculty within Duke’s OTD program, where she enjoys teaching and mentoring future occupational therapists.
Melissa chose occupational therapy because it allows her to collaborate closely with clients while applying creativity, clinical reasoning, and a holistic approach to support participation in meaningful daily activities. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Creighton University in 2013. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.
