Sacramento, California, United States
As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with extensive experience in recreation therapy, adaptive sports, and behavioral health services, I am dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all abilities. My journey in therapeutic recreation has included volunteer work, professional internships, and hands-on clinical experience, allowing me to develop a well-rounded skill set in assessment, program planning, implementation, and evaluation. I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations through organizations such as the Cosumnes CSD Parks & Recreation Department, The Well Recreation Center, and Alexander Twilight Secondary Academy. In these roles, I facilitated adaptive sports programs, recreational therapy sessions, and inclusive community activities to promote engagement, independence, and well-being. Building on this foundation, I completed my Recreation Therapy Internship at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where I gained hands-on experience in conducting assessments, leading wellness groups, facilitating individualized interventions, and developing therapeutic programs for veterans with physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges. I also strengthened my skills in interdisciplinary collaboration, documentation, and budget planning, which are essential for effective program management. Additionally, my role as a Behavior Technician at Roman Empire ABA Services, Inc. allowed me to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in developing essential life skills such as socialization, vocational exploration, and self-care. This experience reinforced my ability to implement behavioral interventions that align with therapeutic recreation goals, ensuring a person-centered approach to treatment. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Parks & Tourism Administration with a concentration in Recreation Therapy from California State University, Sacramento. My education, combined with my practical experience, has equipped me with the necessary skills to assess client needs, design goal-oriented interventions, and utilize evidence-based recreation therapy techniques to improve functional outcomes. I am passionate about the transformative power of therapeutic recreation and committed to advocating for inclusive, client-centered services that foster independence, social connection, and overall well-being.
Facilitating Movement-Based Activities Led structured movement sessions focusing on balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility. Designed and implemented adaptive physical activities tailored to the needs of neurodiverse individuals. Supporting Motor Skills Development Assisted participants in developing gross and fine motor skills through guided movement exercises. Encouraged body awareness, spatial orientation, and sensory integration to enhance daily functioning. Incorporating Therapeutic Recreation Techniques Used recreation therapy principles to promote social engagement, emotional regulation, and independence. Integrated activities such as yoga, stretching, dance, and mindfulness exercises to support overall well-being. Adapting Activities for Individual Needs Assessed participant abilities and modified activities to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. Provided one-on-one and group support to accommodate diverse learning and movement styles. Promoting Social Interaction & Engagement Encouraged teamwork and communication through partner and group-based movement exercises. Used movement as a tool to foster social connections and build confidence in participants. Maintaining a Safe & Supportive Environment Ensured all activities were conducted in a safe, structured, and engaging manner. Provided verbal and visual cues to assist participants in following directions and maintaining focus. Collaborating with Interdisciplinary Teams Worked alongside therapists, educators, and support staff to align movement sessions with individualized goals. Communicated participant progress and challenges to ensure consistent support across programs. Encouraging Self-Regulation & Mindfulness Integrated breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and sensory-based strategies to support self-regulation. Helped participants recognize the connection between movement and emotional well-being. Tracking Progress & Providing Feedback Observed participant engagement.
Provide one-on-one therapy services to clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in their home Assist with socialization skills, adaptive skills, use of public transportation, community orientation, self-care, meal preparation, money management, vocational exploration, and social/leisure exploration. Provide direct individual and group-based behavior therapy and social skills facilitation. Assist with implementing interventions to assist students in meeting their IEP goals
Over the course of eight weeks, I led a virtual pilot wellness group called Holistic Horticulture, which focused on promoting well-being through gardening. In addition, I provided one-on-one Recreation Therapy sessions to individuals. I attended meetings and observed various programs alongside my agency supervisor. I was also responsible for developing programs for the Integrated Health Department, which involved budget planning and implementation, skills development programs, team meetings, and community development initiatives. As a Recreation therapy intern, I also carried out clinical responsibilities, working with Veterans and applying the APIE Process to ensure their needs were met.