Meet Jenny. She has been receiving recreational therapy services for the last year at Easterseals Crossroads with Gina Schulz, CTRS, Manager of Therapeutic Programs. Recreational Therapy is a process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address assessed needs of the individual as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.
Jenny has been working hard to set and reach her goals over the last year. She works along side Gina to set her own recreation therapy schedule to include tasks and activities that she enjoys and that get her out and a part of her community. Being a part of the community is one of the goals she values most when it comes to being an active part of her rec therapy program. Some of her favorite community visitations happen at the park, bowling alley, the zoo, shopping, and even a cat café!
Jenny has many physical goals she is working to reach as well. Some of these include working to improve fine motor skills and strength in her hands. Her primary focus is the weakness and limited mobility in her right side. Baking, playing games, exercising, and painting are great ways that Jenny works to improve these motor skills along with coordination and overall muscle tone and strength. Jenny was initially hesitant to engage in walks or use her right-side during these activities, but over the last year she has started to engage these targeted areas and see progress!
“I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Jenny as she is a bright light in my day. She is always excited for recreation therapy and has a smile on her face. She has a great sense of humor and is very witty. Working with Jenny reminds me of why I fell in love with Recreation Therapy,” state Gina, Jenny’s rec therapist.
Jenny also has a supportive family unit helping her work hard towards these goals and make it possible for her to see Gina for rec
reational therapy. “Jenny looks forward to working with Gina on the days she is at Crossroads,” says mother, Georgia. “She especially likes the baking sessions and smiles with pride after she is able to do it. I think she has gained confidence that she can accomplish something.”
