Recreational Therapy
Recreational Therapy is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.
The purpose of the RT process is to improve or maintain physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life. Services are provided or directly supervised by a “Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist” (CTRS).
Groups are designed as an adjunct to individual therapy; you do not need to be receiving individual therapy services with us to participate.
Recreational Therapy supports treatment of many challenges, including:
-
Anxiety and Depression
-
Anger Management
-
Grief and Loss
-
Trauma
-
Social Skills Development
-
Family Conflict
-
Self-Esteem Issues
-
ADHD
-
Autism Spectrum Disorder
-
Dyspraxia
Meet Sarah
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
Bellevue Clinic
Sarah joined Olympia Therapy in February of 2025 after working in various nonprofits and government organizations. Over the last 14 years, Sarah has been designing, planning and implementing various youth programming such as camps, sports leagues, classes, clinics, special events, and community outings. Sarah has experience serving a wide range of populations including neurodivergent youth, foster youth, homeless youth, low-income youth and families, and youth with physical disabilities. This wide range of experiences has allowed her to understand the importance of an individualized treatment approach and working collaboratively with youth and their caregivers.
"As a dedicated and compassionate recreation therapist, I am committed to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate life's challenges. In a safe, nurturing, and creative environment, I utilize the power of recreation to facilitate emotional expression, enhance coping skills, and promote healing and growth. Through recreation, children and adolescents can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build resilience. By incorporating various recreation therapy-based interventions such as art, music, movement, storytelling, and imaginative play, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family."