Danny Pettry's Rec. Therapy Blog

I think this story is inspirational.

2012-02-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

9-year-old goes home after 6-organ transplant.

Read about it here:

http://news.yahoo.com/video/bostonwbz-15750588/9-year-old-girl-heads-home-after-6-organ-transplant-at-children-s-hospital-28164983.html#crsl=%252Fvideo%252Fbostonwbz-15750588%252F9-year-old-girl-heads-home-after-6-organ-transplant-at-children-s-hospital-28164983.html

100 year old stays sharp with this game...

2012-02-01T20:13:00.001-08:00

Discover a game that helps to keep a 100-year-old to stay sharp.

Watch the video:

Read about it here:

http://games.yahoo.com/blogs/plugged-in/100-old-stays-sharp-nintendo-ds-022034210.html

100 year old stays sharp with this game...

2012-02-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

Discover a game that helps to keep a 100-year-old to stay sharp.

Read about it here:

http://games.yahoo.com/blogs/plugged-in/100-old-stays-sharp-nintendo-ds-022034210.html

Praise for Rec. Therapy: from my mother.

2012-02-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Laugh aloud.

I posted a comment on my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/recreationtherapy about Feb. being national Rec. Therapy month! I asked people to send an email of praise to a Rec. Therapist. I have over 1,000 friends on FB. Most of them are Rec. Therapists who follow my email newsletter and (this blog).

Laugh aloud again. because I received one note of praise on my FB page today.

My good, loving mother had written:

Danny, I think you are the best Recreational Therapist. You have such compassion for those you work with. You are dedicated to helping others. You have great work ethics. You keep up with what is new in your field. You strive to improv the the image of rec. therapy, working to make it a more prestigious job, which it should be after so much hard work it took to get a degree in it. Danny, you touch lives and make them better!

Thanks Mom. I appreciate the support.

February is Black History Month

2012-02-01T19:08:00.000-08:00

Yes -- Feb. is the New Rec. Therapy month.

But I also received a reminder that it is also Black History Month!

Fact monster has a lot of neat things about this month.

It first strated out as a week in 1926.
Some time later the full month was celebrated.

check it out here:

http://www.factmonster.com/spot/bhm1.html

February is the NEW Recreational Therapy Month!

2012-01-31T19:28:00.001-08:00

Please send an email to praise a Recreational Therapist who you know!

FAQs about Rec. Therapy:
http://www.atra-online.com/associations/10488/files/TR_FAQ.pdf

Training Session

2012-01-30T20:28:00.000-08:00

We were not able to get the webinar on Coverage of RT to play for the last session at our Tri-State Rec. Therapy Conf.

I might not be allowed to share the link with the public. People who are interested could take the self-study course via the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA), which includes watching a video and taking a quic.

If you're interested, go here:

http://atra-online.com/storelistitem.cfm?itemnumber=94

People who attended the training who want one more clock hour can take this FREE self-study course on Evidenced-based practice in Rec. Therapy at this link:

http://dannypettry.com/_mgxroot/page_free_course.html

Sorry about the trouble.

Your friend,
Danny.

How to Win Friends (Study Course) for kids.

2012-01-29T14:38:00.000-08:00

The 19th Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards rated my book.

I didn’t win their contest, but here are the ratings:

On scale of 1 to 5 with 1 meaning “poor” and 5 meaning “excellent,” please evaluate the following:

Structure and organization: 5

Grammar: 5

Production quality and cover design: 5

Judge’s commentary:
What did you like best about this book?

Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs is a “How to Win Friends and Influence People” study course for children (of sorts). It’s written very well and the book is filled with colorful pictures of dogs, colorful fonts and quick, thought-providing points. The author has created a very unique concept here - I can’t think of any books exactly like this one the market – and provided he’s got a platform for prompting it, self-publishing may sure be the way to go for this one. It’s hard to explain exactly what I liked with this one – it’s one of those books you’ve really got to hold and spend some time with to appreciate it. If the author can get it into reader’s hands, he’s likely got a winner here.

How can the author improve this book?

The challenge with a title like this one is to have e platform from which to promote it. If parents can get their hands on this title, especially within the right setting, they’ll likely want it for their kids. The author seems to have the credentials for prompting it, and is thinking ahead about what will give additional value to the book (i.e. a free coloring book, audio CD, etc). But marketing is only one of great downfalls of self-publishers. This author may already be on the way in the right direction, but he should be encouraged to study how other self-publishers market their books and get – at the very least – samples out to their communities. This book won’t sell itself from backline alone – but the full experience of what’s inside could make all the difference.

Hospice

2012-01-29T12:43:00.001-08:00

I found this article to be interesting.

It is what people talk about before they die (at Hospice).

http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/28/my-faith-what-people-talk-about-before-they-die/?hpt=hp_c2

Vets Use Adaptive Skiing.

2012-01-29T12:41:00.000-08:00

Injry does not stop a Vet from Skiing.

Read this article:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/29/us/veterans-adaptive-skiing/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

Directory of Tools for Transformation

2012-01-28T17:59:00.000-08:00

Dear Rec. Therapist:

You might enjoy this.

What if you could see and SAMPLE all of the latest new products and services designed to help you succeed and live the life of your dreams in 2012?

What if there was one place that had all of the hottest new releases, videos, and programs for personal transformation -- for you to browse and enjoy?

Click Here Now!

I'm happy to be part of this new online directory that features my latest tools for transformation, and those of my colleagues and friends. 2012onTrack is a directory of great new products and services for personal development, presented to you in a simple way, with tons of free offers, downloadable documents, video and audio excerpts and much more!

I encourage you to check it out and pass it along to your friends.

Let's make 2012 the best year ever!

Click Here Now.

Your friend,

Danny.

Download a FREE e-book

2012-01-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

Download the Glossary of Recreation Therapy and Occupational Therapy for FREE at this link:

https://scholarworks.iu.edu/dspace/handle/2022/6474

Full Time Facultry Position

2012-01-26T18:33:00.000-08:00

Please find the link to the following position for a Full-Time Faculty within Human Performance (Specialization Aquatics).

Please forward to any interested individuals. https://employment.byui.net/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1327533005113

ATRAnet Listserv

RT/TR month this Feb!

2012-01-25T20:38:00.001-08:00

Mike Sutherland via the ATRAnet Listserv:

We're looking for every CTRS to participate! This is your month to raise awareness and support for the profession and what we accomplish.

Gear up for the first ever RT/TR Month this February! ATRA offers three new $1 items, each of which can be ordered as an RT version or a TR version: hand sanitizer, nail files, and comfort grip pens. Winning posters from the contest last Fall are also available in dual versions. Due to their popularity at the 2011 Annual Conference, we've also brought back two more items: the fleece vest and windbreaker. These new items are available for a limited time only so order now. You can also view a complete list of promotional items available.

http://atra-online.com/storeindex.cfm

Also remember that NCTRC provides downloadable brochures which you can share with your facility or clients during February (or anytime!)
http://nctrc.org/standardsandpublications.htm

Lack of social skills in children.

2012-01-25T19:43:00.000-08:00

Here is an interesting article on how using facebook, chatting, etc could hinder a child's social and emotional growth and development. They argue that the child does not get face-to-face contact with peers.

Read about it here:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/25/tech/social-media/multitasking-kids/index.html?hpt=hp_c3

Save the Hull House

2012-01-24T19:12:00.000-08:00

SIGN ONLINE PETITION -

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-hull-house

The start of Rec. Therapy is also related to the Hull House. - Danny.

- PLEASE CIRCULATE THIS MESSAGE WIDELY

Hull House was founded over 120 years ago by America’s first female Nobel Prize Winner, Jane Addams. She was a tireless and fearless champion for the arts, social justice, immigrants, workers, public education, public health, good government and grass roots economic development. We can’t let one of the oldest social services organization in America simply go out of business. Chicago is sitting on about $1 billion in property taxes that are in its TIF funds. These funds are routinely being given to commercial projects that need no public money (like the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Grossinger’s Auto, and Sears - which is bleeding red ink). We bailed Wall Street out and got nothing back. We say “Save Hull House - Put People First!”

Story in the Chicago Tribune - http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-hull-house-closes-20120121,0,5594743.story

February is the New Recreational Therapy Month

2012-01-24T19:08:00.000-08:00

February is the New Recreational Therapy Month
and the ATRA website has promotional materials!
http://www.atra-online.com/storeindex.cfm

I received this email via the ATRA-ListServ about products for the month:

In celebration of our new TR Month The New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association has some TR merchandise for sale. You can visit their website at www.nystra.org and click on our products page. If you have any questions please feel free to email me at battlej at nehealth.com and I would be glad to answer them.
Happy TR Month!

Jen Battle

I received a third email via the ATRA-ListServ:

More Recreation Therapy Gear from San Jose State University Logo: Recreation Therapy: Play is Medicine Items: t-shirts, children's clothing, dog clothing, ipad and iphone covers, sweatshirts, long sleeve, bags, coffee mugs, etc. http://www.zazzle.com/rectherapygearshop

Put your own agency symbol and title on the image and have your own RT GEAR
-- Susan Ross, Ph.D., CTRS, RTC

I must admit that Charlie Dixon's TR Directory has always been my personal favorite place to get RT/TR products.

Go here: http://www.recreationtherapystore.com/

You can always check out the RT/TR products here too:

http://www.cafepress.com/teachleisure

2012 ATRA's Mid-Year Conf.

2012-01-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

I received this email from Lisa M. via the ATRA-ListServ Today:

Hello Everyone. Don't want anyone to miss the Early Bird Registration Opportunity that ends January 27th, 2012!!

We are getting closer to time for our Profession to "Take Charge" for our profession. The 2012 ATRA Mid-Year Conference on Public Policy is scheduled for Feb. 26-28, 2012 in Baltimore, MD. This conference will be packed full of critical information to help move Recreational Therapy forward in current legislation.

The first day of this conference proves to be a day of amazing opportunity!

Sunday, February 26th:

An all-day: Dementia Practice Guidelines training and certification will be offered.

A half-day: State Licensurer- The Nuts and the Bolts will be offered. (INCLUDED in the price for the conference registration)

The Honorable U.S. House of Representative Glenn Thompson from Pennsylvania will kick off our main event on the first evening.

Monday, February 27th:

Many sessions will be offered to plan for our Powerful Day On The Hill in Washington, DC.

Information and specific Talking Points will be highlighted throughout the day in sessions offered.

ATRA Legislative Counsel Peter Thomas will wrap up our day by fully explaining the current affairs of Federal Public Policy and challenges Recreational Therapy faces at this time.

Tuesday, February 28th:

Recreational Therapist join together on Capital Hill to promote and advocate for our services. Please join us as we continue to work hard to make a difference in legislative language to protect the consumers we serve as a profession. (An ATRA team is working closely with each state to make this process as easy as possible prior to going to this conference. Please don't decide not to go because of fear. We will help to ensure a possible experience of a lifetime! You can make a difference.)

Don't Miss The Deadline for Hotel and Registration.

2012 ATRA Mid-Year Forum on Public Policy:
Taking Charge of Your Profession

Reserve your room by 5:00PM EST January 27th to get the best rates! Reduced lodging rates have been secured at the Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland: $119 single/double; $139 triple; $159 quad (+ applicable state and local taxes, currently 15.5%). Call (800) 325-3535 or click to make reservations.

Registration discounts are available through midnight or on any form postmarked January 27th. Both online and printable registration are available. Please review the program for educational offerings and travel guidance.

The Federal Public Policy Team welcomes any questions you may have! Hope to see you in Baltimore/DC!

Lisa Morgan
ATRAnet Listserv

7 Ways to Help Children with their Emotions.

2012-01-21T19:52:00.000-08:00

I found a great link that was posted on facebook.

RTs working with children (and maybe teens) in mental/ beh. health settings may enjoy reading this article:

http://kidlutions.blogspot.com/2012/01/7-skillful-ways-to-help-kids-manage.html

your friend,

Danny.

Abandoned dog adopted by a nursing home.

2012-01-21T12:42:00.003-08:00

I think this is a wonderful story that RTs will love to read:
http://www.lifewithdogs.tv/2012/01/abandoned-dog-finds-shelter-at-nursing-home/

Will you live to be 100-years-old?

2012-01-21T12:42:00.001-08:00

Go this this life-calculator at the link below.
This could be a good resource for RTs

http://calculator.livingto100.com/calculator

Mine says I should live to 77. Wow, I've got 45 more years.

This site also gives suggestions and tips to improve health.

Meet Samantha Garvey

2012-01-12T21:45:00.000-08:00

I think Samantha Garvey is a real inspiration.

Lean about her story here:

http://www.cnn.com/video/?hpt=hp_t3#/video/living/2012/01/12/jvm-samantha-garvey-homeless-student-scholarship-contest.hln

tenure-track RT position at East Carolina University.

2012-01-10T19:04:00.000-08:00

via the ATRAnet Listserv comes a new position posting:

We are pleased to inform you that we have received funding to fill a tenure-track RT position at the Assistant/Associate level in the Recreational Therapy program within the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at East Carolina University. We are waiting for HR to do the final bit before we can begin accepting applications, but we wanted to be sure that potential faculty members knew of our opening. Please share the attached with others…

EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN PERFORMANCEDEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND LEISURE STUDIES ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN RECREATIONAL THERAPY

ANTICIPATED POSITION: East Carolina University is seeking to fill a nine-month, tenure track position in the Recreational Therapy program of the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies (RCLS) within the College of Health and Human Performance effectiveAugust 20, 2012.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ANTICIPATED POSITION:Teach in the graduate and undergraduate Recreational Therapy (RT) degree programs and in the professional core. Contribute to the advancement and promotion of Recreational Therapy degree programs, supervise Recreational Therapy student field experiences, advise students on academic procedures and career goals, and engage in outreach with the health care community. Expectations include instruction, externally funded scholarly research; participation in research/creative activity and scholarly publication; and service to the university, community, and profession.

QUALIFICATIONS:Doctoral degree required with at least one degree or emphasis/concentration in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. Strong professional practitioner experience and NCTRC certification as CTRS required. Applicant must obtain licensure as a Licensed Recreational Therapist in North Carolina prior to employment (www.ncbrtl.org). Demonstrated record of teaching effectiveness, research, and publication required. The ideal candidate will complement or build upon at least one program area including: gerontology, behavioral/mental health, physical rehabilitation, youth development, aquatic therapy, or psychophysiology. Candidates expected to complete a doctoral degree by December 2012 will be considered.

RANK AND SALARY:Rank and salary commensurate with professional background and experience.

THE DEPARTMENT:One of three departments within the College of Health and Human Performance, the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies is comprised of 18 full-time faculty members including seven Licensed Recreational Therapists/Certified TR Specialists. The RCLS curriculum has approximately 230 undergraduate majors in the department; Recreational Therapy has approximately 140 majors and 75 pre-majors. The master’s program offers degrees in Recreational Therapy Administration and Recreation and Park Administration, as well as graduate certificates in Biofeedback and AquaticTherapy. The department is home to the Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Lab, the Sensory Observation Lab, and additional space for motor development work. Please visit www.ecu.edu/rcls for more information about the department.

THE UNIVERSITY:East Carolina University, the third largest institution in the University of North Carolina System, is located in Greenville, approximately 90 miles east of the Research Triangle Park and 60 miles west of the Outer Banks and coastal resorts. A city of approximately 85,000, Greenville is within a five-hour drive of Washington, DC and it serves as the educational, cultural, and medical hub of eastern North Carolina. A faculty of over 1,867 guide approximately 27,700 students enrolled in 104 Bachelor, 72 Master, 18 Doctoral, and 1 Medical Professional degree tracks. It is a Carnegie Doctoral Research Intensive university and consists of 12 colleges/professional schools, including the recognized Brody School of Medicine.

SCREENING AND APPLICATION:The official position and full process for screening and application are anticipated to be posted mid-January 2012. ECU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action University and accommodates individuals with disabilities. Individuals requesting a disability accommodation should call the ECU Office of Disability Support Services at 252-328-6799 (Voice/TTY/Relay). Proper documentation of identity and employability are required at the time of employment. Official transcript required upon employment

Call for Manuscripts

2012-01-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

Linda L. Buettner, Ph.D, LRT, CTRS sent an email with the subject line
"Call for Manuscripts"

Here it is:

American Journal of Recreation Therapy, an independent double-blind peer-reviewed print and online journal, welcomes original research manuscripts that contribute to the field of therapeutic and recreational therapies in the management of rehabilitation and quality of life for persons with disabilities of all ages. The journal also receives and publishes original papers regarding all uses of recreation therapy, as well as articles on the legal and regulatory issues surrounding this important field.

Manuscripts are accepted for review as original clinical or basic science research, case reports, clinical reviews, literature reviews, practical application, inservice updates and letters to the editor. Manuscript submission is handled electronically.

To submit a manuscript, please follow this link to http://ajrt.allentrack2.net.

For additional author guidelines and instructions please visit the journal's webpage, www.recreationtherapy.org .

American Journal of Recreation Therapy is the journal of record in the field and features a distinguished Editorial Review Board led by Editor-In-Chief, Professor Linda Buettner, PhD, LRT, CTRS. Dr. Buettner has a long standing reputation as one of the country's most respected leaders in the challenging field of recreation therapy.

As Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Buettner guides the journal's leadership role at a time when the spotlight has been switched on to the rising problem of abuse and poor quality of care for the disabled and long term care patients. We are actively seeking papers dealing with all aspects of recreation therapy. These include: - Basic Science and Research in RT- Innovative RT therapies for pediatrics, rehab, mental health, and geriatrics - Evidence to support recreational therapy - Innovative education and training for recreational therapy students- Exceptual student papers- Best practices for various disability groups- Advocacy and public policy issues vital to the profession - and more...

To submit a manuscript, please visit http://ajrt.allentrack2.net . There are no submission, editing or layout fees for articles submitted and published in the journal. American Journal of Recreation Therapy features a short time to publish as well as an online edition of the journal that can integrate audio and video presentations not available with the print version. Published authors receive print copies of journal with their article.

To submit an article click here. To subscribe immediately click here. For other details, contact the publisher, Weston Medical Publishing at 781-899-2702, or visit the Web page at www.recreationtherapy.org .

Thank You!

2012-01-07T20:05:00.001-08:00

Thanks for taking the survey.

Your friend,

Danny.

Please tell other people in our field to take the survey too.

Here is the link:

http://www.dannypettry.com/rtsurvey.html

You could win a T-Shirt of Coffee cup from the link:

http://www.cafepress.com/teachleisure

Physical activity may help kids with grades, too!

2012-01-03T19:04:00.000-08:00

I found this article and I think RTs may want to read it:

http://gma.yahoo.com/physical-activity-may-help-kids-grades-too-164745428.html

Deb Silver

2011-12-30T19:23:00.000-08:00

Deb Silver is an Artistic Director at SilCo Dance.

SilCo Dance is dedicated to building a self-supporting collaborative arts network focused on creating dance theatre performance projects that tap into the beauty and imperfections of humanity.

Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to help with 2012 programs.
Go here: http://www.silcodance.com/support/

Make a $20 donation in Jan. 2011 and I'll allow you to take any one of my self-study CEU courses (text not included). Just email me your receipt for donation and the course you'd like to take and I'll send you the info. Here is a link with all of my self-study courses:

http://www.dannypettry.com/Courses.htm

RT Monthly Publication.

2011-12-30T19:12:00.000-08:00

My good friend Jo Anne Harrison-Becker has a really nice Monthly Publication that I highly recommend to anyone who provides recreation and activities for seniors.

If you are interested in receiving a subscription of the MONTHLY PUBLICATION, the cost for new subscribers is $49 for a 6-month subscription or $88.00 for a 12-month subscription (save $10.00)

The publication is sent each month via email in a PDF file. If you decide to subscribe, please send check or money order to the address below. If you place an order, please let me know which month to begin the subscription and the email address that you want it forwarded to. If you wish, I can print the name of your organization on the cover page.

This unique publication (in large print) presents exciting opportunities for seniors to welcome each month.

Just print out and photocopy the pages.
Hand out on the first day of every month.
All information included in the publication can be used during:
independent leisure time, one-to-one visits, and any size group activity.

Provides cognitive stimulation, reality orientation and helps prevents boredom; increases concentration and attention span; presents opportunities for learning, reminiscing, self-expression, creativity and reflection; provides staff, volunteers, visitors and family members with readily accessible information to discuss and reminisce with seniors.

*In long term care, demonstrates to state and federal facilities inspectors that residents are using leisure time constructively. I have received positive feedback from activity/recreation professionals from facilities inspectors during their annual inspection.

Be sure to add Jo Anne Harrison-Becker on Facebook because she posts useful info.
http://www.facebook.com/mytherapeuticrecreation

Email JoAnne Harrison-Becker and request for information: jharrison-becker (at) snet.net

Jo Anne Harrison-Becker, MS
Recreation Therapist and Consultant
THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SERVICES
104 Washington Circle
West Hartford, CT 06119-2026
(Business) 860.233.8790
860.233.8790

Are you a Winner?

2011-12-30T18:34:00.000-08:00

I had a contest in Aug. 2011.
I'm sorry it has taken me so long to get the prizes ready.

There are a lot of winners! Prizes will be sent out before the end of Jan. 2012!

Congratulations on your win! Thanks for entering the contest!

The following 10 people won a copy of my book, Almost Magical Quotations:

Leah Anne W. Springfield, Ohio

Wendy T., Paris, Ohio

Ann H. Goldsboro, NC

Evelyn M., Valrico, FL

Alicia G., Phoenix, AZ

April B., White Sulphur Springs WV

Joan K. Henrico, VA

Jeanne S. Camarillo, CA

Dena S. Chicopee, MA

Patricia E., Louisville, KY

The following 2 people have won Rec. Therapy T-Shirts:

Amber B., Morgan Hill, CA

Nancy Mc., Denver, CO

The following 2 people have won Rec. Therapy coffee mugs:

Allison B., Circleville, Ohio

Bonnie S., St. St Albans WV

The following 2 people have won a Self-Study CEU Course from DannyPettry.com:

Carrie N., Grand Blanc, Michigan

Shelly H., Nashville, AR.

The following 2 people have won a gift bag for a child:

Heather T., Roanoke Rapids, NC
Jennifer V., Colorado Springs, CO

Paws for Vets

2011-12-30T14:04:00.001-08:00

Paws for Vets is a neat program that uses animals to help Vets.

Check it out here:

http://www.pawsforveterans.com/

Benefits for listening to birds

2011-12-30T14:01:00.000-08:00

Study shows that listening to bird's sing can help improve mood, attention, and creativity.

Read about it here:

http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/blogs/can-bird-songs-boost-your-brain?hpt=hp_bn12

Robot helps people to walk.

2011-12-29T18:44:00.000-08:00

Rec. Therapists who work in rehab settings may be interested in this article.

There are wearable robots that allow wounded soldiers to walk again.

I think this is great! I hope the technology continues to improve. And I hope any person who could benefit from these robots will have an opportunity to have them in the future.

Read about it here:

http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/12/29/wearable-robots-for-wounded-warriors/?test=faces?test=latestnews

Charlie Appelstein’s -- No Such Thing as a Bad Kid

2011-12-28T20:58:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: canstockphoto.com

I had the opportunity to attend Charlie Appelstein’s training: “No Such Thing as a Bad Kid” in December 2011. It reminds me of my catch phrase, “There is no such thing as a bad cookie; only a bad recipe.

The sub-title of his training is:

The power of a strength-based approach in reshaping the lives of at-risk children, youth, and families.

I believe fellow Recreational Therapists would enjoy his training because it is a “strength-based,” which gives validation to what we, Recreational Therapists do: Help people to build on their strengths.

Here is a review of the training:

Give every child love and respect.

Teach the child new skills.

Give a kid a high-five!

Here is a hint: when a child feels better they’ll use skills better.
Danny P. insert: Many Rec. Therapy interventions help a child to feel better!
Every child needs at least one adult who thinks she (or he) is terrific. Let a child know this.

Children must practice skills to get better at them.

Mr. Appelstein presented a quote:
“self-doubt kills ability” and he argued that “hope is humanity’s fuel.
Mr. Appelstein claims that our job is fill them up. This reminds me of Sean Covey’s Personal Bank Account (BPA). Covey in his (1998) book, The 7 Habits of Highly Successful Teens, explains a PBA as doing good deeds. When I do something nice I give one credit to another person’s PBA, but I also get one credit in my own PBA! That is a win-win!

This concept is a lot like Tom Rath, Mary Reckmeyer, and Maurie J. Mannin’s (2009) picture book for children titled, “How Full is Your Bucket?” Here is the concept. All people have an invisible bucket. They can help raise another person’s bucket by doing nice things and giving compliments (authentically, of course). Plus there is a benefit. By filling another person’s bucket, I’d also fill my own personal bucket.

A person once told me that she thought all the Recreational Therapists she knew were extremely positive. I imagine it is because they make a living by “filling buckets” and as a result their own bucket is pretty full (most of the time).

Mr. Appelstein argued that there is an epidemic in our society of kids without friends. He also claims that this is even worse than bullying. This is a big problem. We, Recreational Therapists are trained and knowledgably about the benefits of social support systems. In fact Recreational Therapists have often been referred to as “Applied Social Psychologists.”
Here are the three things Mr. Appelstein said: that are needed for making friends:
a.) Social accommodation
b.) Social subordination
c.) Give up ego-centrism

In a nutshell, a child must learn social skills needed for making friends, including: compromising, cooperation, sharing, taking turns, not being self-centered, and thinking about others.

My children’s book, “Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs” attempts to teach these similar skills to children using pictures of colorful animals.

I also have a fun little e-book titled, “Building social skills through Activities.” It may be useful for people who teach social skills (friendship skills) to children.

You can download it for FREE at this link: http://www.dannypettry.com/ebook_social_skills.pdf

Mr. Appelstein argued that the kids need more activity in life! I loved this statement (being a Recreational Therapist)!

He recommended board games. He said it is a good thing to lose games on purpose to allow the child to win! Good tip. I’ve already practiced it. When the child has built up her (or his) self-confidence then it will be okay to win a game now and then.

I also have a fun-filled little e-book titled, “Learning About Leisure through Activities.”

People who work with children may want to download this e-book for FREE at my link here: http://www.dannypettry.com/ebook_leisure.pdf

Mr. Appelstein said that lecturing children won’t work. He argues that we must give the child a reason to feel good.

His training reminded me a lot of a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you treat a person like he is smart then he’ll act smart. Treat him like he is bad and he’ll act in ways that are not-so-good. See how I rephrased “bad” to end that sentence with the word “good.”

Mr. Appelstein gave a hand-out with ways to re-word labels in a more positive focus. This is really important for the self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead of saying a child is “resistant,” reframe it as the child is being “cautious.”

I do daily goal-planning with adolescent teens. Each group member gets an opportunity to share aloud one thing she (or he) can do to make her (or his) day more positive. A lot of children will say, “not to do XYZ.” I have them re-word their goal. Instead of saying what they’re not going to do, to say what they will do instead in order to end on a positive.
Example: I will not lie today. Reframed: I’ll do my best to be honest and trustworthy today.

Mr. Appelstein said that “in 20-years they’ll remember how I made them FEEL”. Positive emotions are key here. Think about it for yourself. Can you remember the details of your elementary school teachers? I know their names, but wouldn’t be able to pick them out in a crowd today (except for the ones who I’ve seen regularly over the years). But I can remember school years that felt good and felt bad in relation to the teachers.

Mr. Appelstein reminded us that “My attitude is my choice.” And of course, your attitude is your choice. It is a choice you make when you walk in the doors at your place of employment.

Kids need to see adults who have a positive attitude. They need a person who cares for them.

I really enjoyed Mr. Appelstein’s short-fictional story: Imagine you’re about to have heart surgery and the surgeon says he is really angry and mad. He’s had a bad day. He is cussing the nurse. Slamming papers, arguing and complaining about how much he hates his job. And by the way, are you ready to get started with the surgery? Laugh aloud. I wouldn’t be.

One of my professors in graduate school had said that counseling is a lot like surgery. The person opens up her (or his) inner most deep thoughts and feelings. It is very important for the counselor to be trained in counseling to assure best quality services.
We are open-soul providers much like a heart surgeon. Our job is important.
Will the child turn out effective? It is probability. None of us know. That is one reason why there are so many counseling theories. There is too much about life to have one solid theory. But in the end, Mr. Appelstein said that we must ask ourselves a very important question at the end of the day: Did I behave well? Did I do my best?

Mr. Appelstein argued that a child is doing their best with the skills they have. They’d do better if they had the skills. Mr. Appelstein reminds us to get mad at the child’s “choice” and not the “kid.” We have a responsibility to teach the child effective skills. Mr. Appelstein highly recommends Ross Greene's (2005) book, “The Explosive Child.” This book has three ways of dealing with a child:
A.) Force the child to comply
B.) Work with the child to find a solution
C.) Let the child choose
There are times when it may be appropriate to use choice. If a child is about to run into traffic or harm then choice A. is needed. Use choice C. If the child wants to wear a blue shirt instead of a red one.

Green’s book is really good. I’ve created a full self-study course based on Green’s text for Recreational Therapists and other professoinals. It is 5 clock hours of cont. ed. You can learn about it here: http://dannypettry.blogspot.com/2011/05/new-course-alert.html

Greene’s book is an awesome resource for teaching children problem-solving skills and self-regulation. I highly recommend it too.

More Mr. Appelstein reminders:

• Let the child know that we are really lucky to have her (or him).

• Let the child know she (or he) is a winner!

• They are all “A” Kids. There are no “B” kids.

• They’re human. They’ll make mistakes.

• Kids are cautions because they’re afraid.

• Road blocks is his ways of redefining a learning disability. This just means the child might have to start early. Take a detour to get to the destination. I, Danny Pettry, can attest to that. I was a slow learner as a child. I’d had to take special reading classes, speech therapy, and had other 1:1 assistance with homework during my elementary and jr. high school years. Things didn’t come quickly to me, so I have a lot of empathy for children. As a result, I have learned to preserve and to keep trying.

• Focus on what the child does right! Here is a good one Mr. Appelstein shared with us during the training. Some adult always jumped on the child for not closing doors. He changed it to focus on what the child does right by saying, “I sure like the way you open doors. You’re really good at it.” Of course, the child still needed to learn to close the door after leaving his house, but the child remembered the positive each time he opened the door, “hey, I’m good at opening doors.” And he became good at closing them, too. The child knew that comes next: Open door. Close door. Mr. Appelstein said this is a lot like 7X7. Without thinking we know the answer is ___. He argues that it is good to teach the child in fun ways so the answer automatically comes to mind. Mr. Appelstein has CDs. With fun lyrics. You can get it here: www.charliea.com. These rhymes remind me of the documentary Waiting for Superman, which argues that being a good teacher is a form of art. It showed teachers who used rhymes to teach teens at risk how to do math.

• Squeeze the behavior into the appropriate place. A child could make distracting sounds during class. Let the child know he (or she) is very good at making these sounds. Give the child an appropriate time to do this, in example: have a band/ sound making session after classes at the end of the day. That would be the appropriate time.

• Talk about the future in positive terms.

• Cars get better every year. A 2012 Ford Mustang will be a lot better than a 1997 Ford Mustang. Each year the child is a new model. The child is equipped with new skills. A 2011 Danny P. is a lot better than a 1998 Danny P. (sorry for talking in third-person). Just an example.

• Give the child multiple opportunities for success because these kids are often winning deprived.

• Don’t take activities away as punishment. In example: taking away soccer would be bad because it allows the child to have physical fitness and social interaction. It allows the child to practice skills needed for a team. This could do more harm. Allow the child to have activities.

• Say goodbye to fantasy that is not real and say hello to the new. Unfinished business is because of some kind of fantasy.

• Give the child unconditional support. I, Danny P. am going to treat the child good despite their behaviors because I can only control my own actions and behaviors. I’m going to do my best to be a good role-model. I do my best to treat all people nice. Why do I treat you so special? Because you are.

• Use humor. It is powerful and it increases learning. Many of us Rec. Therapists use humor therapy!

• Don’t take it personal when a child says something. All of us are more likely to make mistakes when we are stressed.

• I have to do my best even when I am at my worst.
Community support is very important. Mr. Appelstein argued that social support in the community is very important in the success of a child after he leaves a program or facility. We recreational therapists have a great opportunity to help the child to build bridges and connections with community resources.

Or visit his web-site here:
http://www.charliea.com/

And please check out my “Building Character” children’s book, audio C.D., and workbook for children here:

Therapy dogs help college students

2011-12-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

Watch this video:
http://news.yahoo.com/video/newyorkcbs2-15751042/canines-helping-students-through-finals-week-27613839.html#crsl=%252Fvideo%252Fnewyorkcbs2-15751042%252Fcanines-helping-students-through-finals-week-27613839.html

your friend,
Danny.

Who Else Wants Motivation?

2011-12-15T17:01:00.001-08:00

Dear friend,

Imagine how inspired you could feel if you were surrounded by the world’s most motivational people. Wouldn’t it be amazing to hear their messages of hope and inspiration daily?

Danny Pettry’s collection of motivational quotations can give you just that.

You might find yourself in a hypnotic trance as you read each of these 101 magical, motivational, and spellbinding quotes.

Go to this amazon link for more info. about the book:

Watch the Video Here:

Reading this collection of quotes could cause you to have a magical transformation. You just might wake up feeling ready to succeed in life. You’re intelligent enough to know that if the authors of these quotes can do it then you can do it.

As you read these quotes you may increase feelings of hope, inspiration, and encouragement. These quotations are tips and tricks for a better life.

Abracadabra and hocus-pocus

– make your dreams come true with this amazing collection of motivational quotes.

Go to this amazon link for more info. about the book:

Contents:·

· Chapter 1: Meaning of Existence

· Chapter 2: Attract Good Things

· Chapter 3: Generously Give

· Chapter 4: Imagination is Imperative

· Chapter 5: Create What You Want

· Chapter 6: Achieve Your Dreams

· Chapter 7: Learn for Life

Claim your copy at this link:

But wait, there is more!

~ This book includes 4 bonuses! ~

· Bonus # 1: Includes journal questions for each of the 7 chapters.
· Bonus # 2: Includes 11 fun activities that you can do with quotes.
These are great for group activities or individual projects.

· Bonus # 3: Book Recommendations
· Bonus # 4: Access to E-Newsletter that includes book give-away each month -- (details on p. 78).

Claim your copy at this link:

Lower risk of alzheimer's disease

2011-12-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

Rec. therapists who work with the elderly may be interested in this article I found on foxnews.

It suggests 7 ways to decrease risk of alzheimer's disease.

In a nutshell, here are the tips:

1. increase cinnamon in diet.
2. drink apple juice
3. drink coffee (my personal favorite tip)
4. socialize more.
5. meditate
6. Mediterranean diet helps.
7. Protect your vison.

Rec. therapist could develop social activities, meditation, coffee and conversation, offer apple jucie during sessions, and include cognitive activities. It was said that the social activities increase cognitive functioning.

Read the full article here:

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/12/09/7-ways-to-lower-your-risk-alzheimers/?test=faces

Read more here:
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/12/09/7-ways-to-lower-your-risk-alzheimers/?test=faces#ixzz1gH5OG9nf

low-pay/ high stress jobs

2011-12-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Mental health counselor were listed for 2 of the 5 low-pay/ high stress jobs.

The # 1 was being a residential supervisor (mental health counselor) for a group home for adults with needs.

The # 3 was being a substance abuse counselor because many clients do not volunteer. They must go because of a court order. Plus it is hard to see a client relapse.

Here is the link:

http://career-services.monster.com/yahooarticle/low-paying-high-stress-jobs/article.aspx#WT.mc_n=yta_fpt_article_low_pay_low_stress_jobs

Sarah Conque, CTRS

2011-12-07T14:10:00.000-08:00

Marieke Van Puymbroeck, Ph.D., CTRS (Indiana University) posted this info. today via the ATRA ListServ. I think this is amazing info.

Hi colleagues,
I wanted to let you know about a really cool experience that one of our colleagues will be involved with December 8-18. Sarah Conque, CTRS, from the University of Mississippi, will be going to Haiti to provide RT services for an agency called Danita’s Children:
http://www.danitaschildren.org

This orphanage serves children with physical and intellectual disabilities. Her university will be donating sports equipment and shipping it to Haiti, and she has raised all of the funds for this trip herself. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring RT to a population that is so often overlooked, or even ignored because of their disabilities. Kudos to Sarah for taking on such a big and exciting task! I know she is also planning to spend more time in Haiti with this organization and others if this trip goes well. If you want to talk with her about it, her email is: s.conque (at) gmail.com
Sincerely,
Marieke

Meaning of doodles from an Art Therapist

2011-12-06T17:56:00.001-08:00

I saw an interesting video on yahoo news today. It was titled "What doe syour doodling mean" with Art therapist Karen Stabley.

Watch the video here:

http://news.yahoo.com/video/oklahomacitykoco-18229979/what-does-your-doodling-mean-27496968.html#crsl=%252Fvideo%252Foklahomacitykoco-18229979%252Fwhat-does-your-doodling-mean-27496968.html

TR Position @ University of Wisconsin

2011-12-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

Therapeutic Recreation Position at the
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

The Department of Recreation Management and Therapeutic Recreation at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is very pleased to announce the availability of a full-time, nine-month, tenure track Therapeutic Recreation position.

The person filling this position will join our progressive team at the Assistant Professor rank. Candidates should have both expertise and enthusiasm for teaching in the introductory and upper division Therapeutic Recreation undergraduate and graduate core courses. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a passion for involvement in scholarly activities such as research, grant writing, publication, and undergraduate and graduate research; and have a strong interest in professional service. Candidates must have the CTRS credential.

The Search Committee asks for your assistance in sharing the above information with individuals who may be interested in this position. A copy of the position announcement is attached. The first review of candidates will take place on January 16, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled.

Additional information about the department may be found on our website at http://www.uwlax.edu/sah/rmtr

For more information, please contact:

Patricia Ardovino, PhD, CTRS, CPRP
Associate Professor
Director, Therapeutic Recreation Undergraduate Program
Department of Recreation Management and Therapeutic Recreation
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
608-785-8217
pardovino@uwlax.edu

Activity Coordinator for a Skilled Nursing And Rehabilitation Center in Palm Harbor, FL.

2011-12-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Looking for an Activity Coordinator for a Skilled Nursing And Rehabilitation Center in Palm Harbor, FL.

Two years of experience conducting social/recreational programs within the past five years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting. Preferred knowledge of short term rehab residents.

Completion of a state approved training course, Certified as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist by a recognized accrediting body preferred.

Please email 386hr@hcr-manorcare.com with your resume. Thank you

Preparing to Take the NCTRC Exam

2011-12-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

This was posted via the ATRA Newsbite today. I thought it would be good to re-post this message

ATRA is pleased to offer a new webinar that will help those preparing to get certified. This webinar is $25 per registrant.

Individuals may register, and universities are welcome to register as well. You'll have one dial-in number and one login so if you're planning on listening as a group, be prepared with a speaker phone and possibly a projector for your computer monitor. This session is not worth CEUs. This session will be repeated three times: December 7, 2011, April 11, 2012, and September 12, 2011.

This session will not cover information about the sitting requirements and other standards of NCTRC. (See Certification 101 webinar on February 22, 2012).

A fun children's book!

2011-11-29T17:37:00.001-08:00

Greg Luzniak recently raised funds to self-publish his first children’s picture book, Three Goats Gruff, using kickstarter.com.

I’m proud to say that I was a backer for this project. I was rewarded with a limited edition copy from the first printing (copy # 373 out of 1,000).

Three Goats Gruff is a story that I remember from my own childhood (during the mid-80s). I've always enjoyed this book.

I think Greg Luzniak is an amazing artist. I love his art in this book. I think he has done a great job at brining this classic book back to life for today's generation of kids!

Greg Luzniak studied at the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning and the Art Institute of Houston. He has illustrated comics for Marvel, DC, and Malibu Comics. He has also worked in creating art for video games.
I think his artwork is inspiring.

Watch my video book review here:

Here is the link for his blog:
http://www.gregluzniakgallery.blogspot.com/

Here is an amazon link:

An Opportunity To Take Charge of Your Profession

2011-11-29T15:53:00.000-08:00

Calling On All Recreational Therapists...
Lisa Morgan writes via the ATRA-ListServ today:

For An Opportunity To Take Charge of Your Profession

February 26-28, 2012

Please save these dates!

We need as many CTRS' to participate in this year's ATRA 2012 Midyear Conference in Baltimore, MD.

Be a part of making a difference for our future!!! More details coming soon...

Thanks,

Lisa Morgan

Creatures -- the card game... is Fun!

2011-11-28T20:27:00.000-08:00

Creatures the card game could be used as a therapeutic tool for children.

I teach social skills and leisure education to children (boy and girls) between the ages of 7 to 12.

Here are some of the benefits that “Creatures – the Card Game” could do:

a.) Help the child to learn new age-appropriate leisure skill (ability to play Creatures Card Game) that she (or he) can use to build social connections (i.e. make friends).

b.) Help the child to practice needed social skills such as: taking turns, fair play, being patient for turn, using good sportsmanship, being friendly with others.

c.) Allow the child to increase intellectual functioning. This game requires the child to think ahead, concentrate, and use math skills.

I’m sure that Recreational Therapists working in rehabilitation settings could teach adaptive techniques or help with fine motor skills. However, my background is in behavioral health.

Here is a link for the game:

http://www.creaturescardgame.com/

Here is my video review:

Here is the link for the game:
http://www.creaturescardgame.com/

P.S. If you’ve not done so already, watch the video for my kickstarter project: Monster books (fun for kids, bigger kids, and of course, adults, too. Laugh aloud.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/monsters-are-fun-pledge-and-get-one

Photo © DerBear Toy Factor/ Derric C.

Read Issue # 2 for FREE!

2011-11-26T19:08:00.001-08:00

Read Issue # 2: So Many Monsters. Go to the link below.
Be sure to post feedback and comments about the words for the book.

Pictures are not shown yet.
Here is the link-a-do:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/monsters-are-fun-pledge-and-get-one/posts/143087

Monsters by Danny Pettry.

2011-11-21T21:31:00.000-08:00

Toy Monsters designed by Derric C. (DerBears Toy Factory)

Dear friend --

I made books during my leisure time (when I'm not working as a Rec. Therapist).

I'm currently working on 3 Monster books (That are cute and fun). These books include pictures of the toys from Derric's DerBears Toy Factory!

Would you’d pledge $12 support for the Monster books for kids!

They're going to be really-awesome and super-cute! Designed to encourage children to read.

Every dollar counts.

There are several neat rewards: like copies of the Monster books and one of the limited-edition monsters from the book that you can select.

Of course no pressure if you’re not interested.
You wouldn’t be billed until Jan. 15, 2012!

Here is the link if you’d like to pledge $12 to help:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/monsters-are-fun-pledge-and-get-one/pledge/new?clicked_reward=false&logged_in=false&p=0&ref=live&v=u

Thanks-a-bunch.
Your friend,
Danny.

Meditation and Mindfulness

2011-11-21T21:27:00.001-08:00

I read an article today (Mon. Nov. 21, 2011) at CNN titled: How meditating may help your brain by Elizabeth Landau.
Landaue discusses the benefits of mindfulness.
You can read the full article at this link:

http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/21/how-meditating-may-help-your-brain/?hpt=hp_c3

There was also a link for a Nov. 16, 2010 article by Elizabeth Landau @ CNN titled: Can mindfulness help manage pain and mental illness?
http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/16/mindfulness.therapy.meditation/index.html

The Mind.

2011-11-20T21:13:00.000-08:00

Dear friend,

I had the opportunity to read The Mind’s Use-Fullness Depends on the Thoughts of The User by Allan Rufus.

This is a very powerful little book on self-discovery, self-healing, motivation, and realization.

Rufus challenges the reader to change her (or his) thoughts in order to change life.
Rufus quotes the Ascended Master Kuthumi:

“If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got”.

Rufus argues that only through our awareness can we change something.

This book is about a powerful philosophy. It is on Inner-Alchemy and Self-Transformation.

The book gives simply and easy-to-understand metaphors to help the reader get in touch with the meaning of her (or his) own life, to set goals, and to live a life worth living.

I’d imagine a Life Coach would recommend a person to read this book.

You’d probably enjoy this book if you like anything by: Rhonda Bryne, Napoleon Hill, Bob Proctor, Joe Vitale, Robert Collier, Marci Shimoff, Jack Canfield, Deepak Chopra, and others like them.

You can get the book at this amazon link:
http://astore.amazon.com/dannybookclub-20/detail/1453573259

Monsters by Danny Pettry.

2011-11-18T19:51:00.001-08:00

Here is my new book project:

skills for job seekers

2011-11-16T20:39:00.001-08:00

I read this article today and thought some RTs who follow my blog might be interesting in knowing about this:

http://career-services.monster.com/yahooarticle/new-skills-job-seekers-need-hot-jobs#WT.mc_n=yta_fpt_article_five_new_job_seeker_skills

Tri-State Rec. Therapy Conference.

2011-11-15T19:04:00.000-08:00

Fri. Jan. 27, 2012 @ River Park Hospital, Huntington, West Virginia

Go to this link to print out registration form:

http://www.dannypettry.com/RTConf.pdf

You’re invited to attend a one-day Rec. Therapy Conference in Huntington, West Virginia on Fri. Jan. 27, 2012. The cost is only $25. Includes Free lunch. Five hours of continuing education.
Sessions include:

Go to this link to print out registration form:

http://www.dannypettry.com/RTConf.pdf

Costa Rica Opportunity!

2011-11-09T15:19:00.000-08:00

Dr. Dan Ferguson, CTRS Dept of Health, Human Performance and Recreation Pittsburg State University presented this information today via the ATRA-ListServ:

I wanted to let you know that again this year I will be taking a group of students to Costa Rica for a study abroad experience. The program dates are May 13 to May 31 (19 days). We will be in a small mountain town where we will spend our weekdays working in a Casa de Ancianos (assisted living center) and at the Center for Persons with Disabilities with mostly intellectually impaired adults but some with physical disabilities as well.

At both of these facilities we provide a variety of recreation programs. Neither facility has a recreation or activity program. So for two weeks we are the program. Students will have plenty of opportunity to test their skills in a way that is very safe and enjoyable. Students do not have to speak Spanish, but of course any language ability at all it will be extremely useful.

We will live with Costa Rican families and learn a lot about the culture of Costa Rica. On weekends we travel to great places like Manuel Antonio National Park where we take a rain forest hike to see monkeys, sloths, snakes, lizards and other amazing critters before making our way to a great beach for the rest of the day. We visit a cloud forest where we take a night hike to see nocturnal creatures and take a canopy tour that includes a half mile long zip line and other adventures. All majors are invited to participate in this trip but most students are majors in therapeutic recreation, rec. administration, phys ed. or Spanish minor but I have also taken students in special ed, gerontology, social work, psychology, nursing, international studies and business, and even broadcasting.

I have had Freshman through Graduate Students. If you have a student or two who might be interested in this amazing experience, please pass this information to them and they can contact me for more specific information at ferguson@pittstate.edu.

Borderline Personality Disorder

2011-11-04T19:02:00.000-07:00

I had posted about Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Sept. 2011.
This is an evidenced-based practice. It was first used in the treating people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
I’m currently taking a course on treatment for emotional disorders with Amanda Mock Adams, Psy.D.
Here is a video on BPD that she shared:

NEW TR Book! Get yours today!

2011-11-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Dr. Norma Sumbo posted the following at the ATRA ListServ Today:

Just wanted to let you know that the new Facilitation of Therapeutic Recreation Services: An Evidence-Based and Best Practice Approach to Techniques and Processes is now available. Attached is a flyer that lists the chapters (such as Social Skills, Sensory Stimulation, Community Integration, Anger Management, Stress Management, Virtual Reality, etc.)

You can get the book here:
http://venturepublish.com/product.php?id=172

Here is the Table of Contents:

Chapter 1: The Need for Evidence-Based and Best Practice Interventions;

Chapter 2: Leisure Education;

Chapter 3: Selecting and Programs and Activities-Based on Goals and Outcomes;

Chapter 4: Planning and Leading Group Activities/ Group Interventions;

Chapter 5: Communication Techniques;

Chapter 6: Instructional Techniques;

Chapter 7: Counseling Theory and Practice: Some Applications for Leisure Education;

Chapter 8: Health Behavior Change Theories and Models;

Chapter 9: Problem Solving Therapy;

Chapter 10: Anger Management;

Chapter 11: Social Skills Training;

Chapter 12: Assertiveness Training;

Chapter 13: Physical Activity;

Chapter 14: Pain Management;

Chapter 15: Cognitive Behavioral Approaches to Therapeutic Recreation;

Chapter 16: Intergenerational Programming;

Chapter 17: Stress Management;

Chapter 18: Sensory Stimulation and Sensory Integration;

Chapter 19: Reality Orientation, Validation, and Reminiscence;

Chapter 20: Community Integration;

Chapter 21: Virtual Reality Technologies

You can get the book here: http://venturepublish.com/product.php?id=172

Caareer Opportunity

2011-11-03T19:40:00.000-07:00

My good friend Charles Killingsworth posted this message via the ATRA ListServ Today:

Hi, colleagues!

I think that I may have mentioned this previously (if so, I apologize for the redundancy!), but wanted to make sure that interested parties are aware of my move to a Phased Retirement program beginning in the fall semester of 2012. As a result of this, our Department (Health, Human Performance, and Recreation) will be seeking to hire someone to teach several of the courses that I have been teaching, especially in the area of Therapeutic Recreation, and the individual must be TR Certified as our program has that Option in the Accreditation of our Recreation Degree. Our department chair is requesting that this position be filled with a full-time, tenure-track faculty member.

Interested parties should have completed a doctoral degree or be ABD and willing to complete her/his doctoral program by June 1st of 2013. If you and someone you know might be interested in this position, please contact Dr. John Oppliger, Chair, HHPR Dept. either via phone (620-235-4665) or email (jopplige@pittstate.edu).

Thanks for spreading the word! Take care.

2-year-old super-hero!

2011-10-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

I think this story is inspirational!

Watch the video here:

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2011/10/24/dnt-toddler-calls-grandma-to-save-mom.ktrk

MRO Billing in RT

2011-10-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hello there –
A Recreational Therapist had just emailed me.
She said that the company she is working for is getting MRO billing.
She specifically asked if Recreational Therapy is a billable service for MRO.
Would you have any answers for her?
If so, let me know.
Yours,
Danny.
Here are some answers I received via the ATRA ListServ:

Atra has a link to a resource on Medicaid waivers info public policy tab which might help.

I'm assuming she is referring to the Medicaid Rehabilitation Option,
perhaps in Indiana?

Like a lot of mental health/Medicaid reimbursement, billing is coded
by service options, not by the profession of the individual delivering
the service.

First, she would need to determine if rec therapists are included as
qualified providers. If it is the MRO in IN, rec therapists would
likely be covered as "Other Behavioral Health Professional (OBHP)." In
states with licensure, they may be able to be included as a licensed
professional. It appears that agencies have some flexibility in who
meets the qualifications of an OBHP. From there, she would need to
look at what services an OBHP can deliver. Specific to rec therapy, I
would think that AIRS, CAIRS (children), IOT, and Skills Development
(both individual and group) would be appropriate and OBHPs can deliver
services. All of these address areas that a rec therapist is qualified
to deliver, particularly social skills development, anger management,
and skills required to increase or maintain community independence.
For any rec therapist looking at any of these services, it will be
important to demonstrate that the outcomes of the services are
functional in nature as all of these services specifically exclude
diversional recreation from a covered service.

Here's the link to the provider manual so she can see more specific
information. http://provider.indianamedicaid.com/media/23438/mro_%20provider_%20manual.pdf

Hope this helps!

Does anyone know if there is something like that in place in North Carolina? I am an RT who is running a small non-profit private practice & funding is always a challenge. If it is possible to bill for RT in this way, it would open up many more doors & we would be able to serve many more people. Thanks for all the great information!

Have a great day!

The short answer is yes, North Carolina does have something similar.
The tricky part is that each state will be a little bit different. I
do know in NC agencies that wish to deliver mental health services
that are eligible for Medicaid reimbursement must be licensed by the
state and endorsed by the local LME. At one point in time they were
moving to all mental health agencies being externally accredited. Your
local LME can answer specific questions about that. Typically every
state will have a provider manual that will walk you through what's
required in terms of provider and agency qualifications and service
delivery requirements. The "Enhanced Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Services" for NC are here: http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dma/mp/8A.pdf.

I agree that this type of funding would open up many doors. It does
take some leg work in understanding what is required in terms of
infrastructure and ensuring your agency can meet those requirements.
Services also will need a physicians order, so networking and
marketing is of course an essential component. It would be great if
more RTs knew about the options within their own state. Understanding
the state Medicaid language and linking it directly to the outcomes of
RT services can really open the door for practitioners working in
community mental health. It opens doors for RT graduates to educate
mental health providers that they are capable of delivering those
services. Often mental health jobs aren't advertised to a specific
profession, but rather as a qualified provider, which more often than
not, our graduates meet the requirements. For those that are
entrepreneurial in nature, it also opens the door for private
practices that can deliver mental health RT services.

Hope this helps! Have a great Friday everyone

On ATRA website under public policy tab there is information about Medicaid in each state.

The Johnston Family.

2011-10-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

I’m a Recreational Therapist at a Residential Treatment Center for children and adolescents with mental health needs. We, recreational therapists use work with individuals to develop a treatment plan to address her (or his) strengths and areas of needed improvement in several domains: social, physical, cognitive, emotional, and leisure. The recreational therapist will then provide therapeutic activity interventions to assist the person in meeting the goals on her (or his) treatment plan. Finally, we evaluate the outcomes of treatment. Our ultimate goal is to get the person to their highest functioning abilities.

As a Recreational Therapist, I was highly motivated by the Johnston family.

Watch a CNN video with Anderson Cooper here:
http://www.andersoncooper.com/2011/10/21/inside-the-johnston-family-home/

Based on my small observation of the family, they appear to be at their highest functioning!
I’ve had clients with mental health needs have distorted thinking patterns such as, “It is impossible, it is hopeless to try, or I can’t.” Some Recreational Therapists use books (bibliotherpay) and movies (cinema therapy) to assist their clients in meeting treatment goals. I like to use real –life stories.

A session could consist reading a brief article on “the Johnston family” to a group of clients in treatment. There would be goal-oriented discussion questions.

Here are some examples: What are their strengths? What are they doing to overcome challenges? What are some of your personal strengths? How could you overcome your own challenges? Are like the Johnston family in that you’re willing to give-up excuses and do your best or are you unlike them? Imagine a future life where you’re doing the best you can despite your limitations. What would that life look like? What steps could you take to get there?

Please note that Recreational Therapy is a treatment-oriented profession that is often under the supervision of a physician as part of an overall treatment plan. Recreational therapists in the United States are certified and/or licensed to practice.

Best Jobs for Saving the World!

2011-10-16T16:52:00.001-07:00

CNN-Money reported that the “Recreational Therapist” was in the top 10 best jobs for saving the world!

I thought our fellow Recreational Therapists might be interested in knowing this.

Check it out here:

http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/best-jobs/2011/jobs-helping-others/9.html?fb_ref=fbLike&fb_source=profile_multiline

What jobs are on CNN-Money’s top 20? Here they are:

1. Public School Teachers

2. Nonprofit Program Coordinator

3. Dietician

4. Social Worker

5. Medical Case Manager

6. Environmental Engineer

7. Nursing Director

8. Education/ Training Consultant

9. RECREATION THERAPIST!

10. Environmental Project Manager

11. Physical Therapist

12. Civil Engineer

13. Mechanical Engineer

14. Speech-Language Pathologist

15. Tutor

16. Personal Trainer

17. Medical Clinical Lab Technologist

18. Aerospace Engineer

19. Biotechnology Research Associate

20. Nuclear Engineer

I really felt like mental health counselors should have been on this list too!

Steve Jobs -- 7 Rules of Success!

2011-10-16T16:17:00.001-07:00

Carmie Gallo had written an article titled “Steve Jobs and the 7 Rules of Success” for the Entrepreneur, which was featured online on Fri., Oct. 14th.

Gallo had studied Jobs’ life and she suggested 7 of his rules that we could all apply to our own lives.

I thought Recreational Therapists would love to know about these 7 tips.

You can read her full article at this link:
http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/advisor/steve-jobs-and-the-7-rules-of-success.html

Here are my review of the 7 rule as they could apply to recreational therapists:

1. Do what you love: I imagine most recreational therapists have a lot of passion for what they do to help people.

2. Put a dent in the universe: Make an intention and take an active effort at changing the world, even if it is in your own small corner of the universe.

3. Make connections: I’d argue to make as many friends as possible. Rec. therapists could attend professional conferences. Learn about new cultures. Eat at an ethnic restaurant or attend a fair for a certain culture group. Be open to learning about people.

4. Say no to 1,000 things. The majority of people in the American society have one significant other. In fact, they’re saying no to 1,000s of others when they chose one person. Jobs had said no to projects at Apple.

5. Create insanely different experiences. I work at a hospital. They have this motto, “what if Disney” ran your hospital. How can you make the experience amazing for each client/ patient/ customer/ co-worker who walks in the door?

6. Master the message: Be a good communicator.

7. Sell dreams, not products. The big point is to help other people reach their hopes and dreams. I think we, recreational therapists do that every day.

Carmine Gallo is the author of these interesting books:

People Who Inspire Me!

2011-10-15T18:45:00.001-07:00

Bethany Hamilton
Jaycee Lee Dugard
Jessica Lynch
Jon Comer
Leanne Beetham
Natascha Kampusch
Shea Cowart
Zlata Filipović

Rock Creation Therapy!

2011-10-13T17:18:00.000-07:00

Rock-Creation Therapy

by Brian Bruggeman, M.A., CTRS

Go here to order: http://www.jugglewell.com/rock-creation_26.html

Introducing Rock-Creation Therapy!

It is the healing and mystical properties of rocks and gemstones have been recorded throughout history for thousands of years. Rock-Creation Therapy is not intended to espouse these qualities but to use rocks and gemstones as a metaphor that can be used to create a healthier lifestyle.

In Rock-Creation Therapy, participants will examine various rocks and gemstones and then process their experience through a variety of worksheets.

Some of the themes include:
• Leisure Education
• Gratitude
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Rock-Creation Therapy provides everything that you need to run a successful program:
• 15 beautiful rocks and gemstones in a velvet bag.
• 5 worksheets to help participants process their experience.
• Additional activity ideas.
• Resource suggestions to increase your knowledge of rocks and gemstones.

Rock-Creation Therapy is perfect for:
• Behavioral Health Programs
• Drug Rehabilitation
• Physical Rehabilitation
• Geriatric Programs

Rock-Creation Therapy is an innovative and unique method to teach wellness programming to your clients. Order today!

It is only $20 plus $5 shipping and handling

For more information and to order, visit the website at
http://www.jugglewell.com/rock-creation_26.html

or email Brian at brian@jugglewell.com

Bree McMahon

2011-10-06T18:38:00.000-07:00

I am always inspired by people who are living their life and going for their dreams despite setbacks or obstacles.

Today, I want to share the story about Bree McMahon.

She lost her leg from an injury in a car wreck. But that didn't stop her from living her life. Watch this video:

Here is a link:

http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/dish/201110/soccer-player-returns-pitch-after-losing-leg

RT needed in Virginia.

2011-10-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

Career Opportunity in Virginia

https://jobs.agencies.virginia.gov/applicants/jsp/shared/position/JobDetails_css.jsp?postingId=569533

Caregiver Village

2011-10-04T19:01:00.001-07:00

Dear Rec. Therapist:

Check out Caregiver Village!

It is an online community designed exclusively for those who provide care for anyone with special needs.

Caregiver Village members connect with friends, participate in book clubs with celebrity authors, journal, play mystery games, solve puzzles, and learn valuable information about caregiving. The founders of Caregiver Village have also just put aside a portion of the launch funding to support caregiving organizations. For every person that joins Caregiver Village, they will donate $1 to that persons organization of choice. I've created a page which explains everything:

http://www.caregivervillage.com/social-media

Rec. Therapist needed for a school setting.

2011-09-25T18:23:00.001-07:00

Career Opportunity:
A school district in southeastern Pennsylvania is seeking a CTRS to provide in-school Rec. Therapy services for elem. aged children.

Focus of these services are on teaching: increasing and improving frustration tolerance, impulse control, focus and concentration, social skills, and following instructions. Rec. therapist is expected to provide at least two in-school therapy sessions per week and eventually community outings to practice skills at local recreation centers.

Please contact me immediately if you or someone you know may be interested.
This may be a contractual job or part-time job. Danny (at) dannypettry.com

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

2011-09-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege to attend a training session on the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Model. This was a mandatory training for all the employees where I work at. It was presented by Sarah Jarvis, Psy,D.

I’m very glad I attended this session and I was very pleased to hear that all staff at my facility will get to attend this training too!

The training was based on the DBT model developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. (University of Washington).

The DBT model is designed for treating people with severe, chronic, multi-diagnosis, and/ or people who are difficult to treat.

DBT assumes the following:
a.) Patient is doing best that they can.
b.) Patient wants to improve
c.) Patients need to do better, try harder and be motivated to change.
d.) Patient must learn new behaviors in all relevant contexts.
e.) Patient may not have caused all their problems, but they need to solve them anyways.
The lives of these individuals are unbearable as they are currently being lived.

The most caring thing we can do for our patients is to help them get closer to THEIR goals. Clarity and compassion is needed.

We need to help our patient learn how to regulate emotions. This is a balancing process that includes: change, acceptance, problem-solving, and validation.

Here are several types:

High sensitivity: immediate reaction and low tolerance.

High reactivity: extreme emotional/ behavior and disruption in cognitive process.

Slow return to balance: requires extreme time to “calm down” and increased vulnerability to additional stimulus. This could re-start the cycle.

Here is an important key concept to remember:
Stress with our patients could lead to suicide, attempts, self-harmful behavior, substance abuse, social, occupational problems, clinical disorders/ syndromes, and continued maladaptive behavior.

For the service providers (therapists, counselors, rec. therapist) etc. it could create situations of chaos, distress, feeling fear, worry, or anger. There is tension within the system.

Here is another important key concept to remember:
Growth can’t occur in a stressed environment. People can’t learn in stress.

Introduction to Validation Therapy
This was first started with the geriatric population. Identify them as a person.
Here are some ways to offer comfort/ touch:
Acknowledge them, value them, re-assure, comfort, make them know they’re worthy, and worthy of being listened to, and that they’re important!

Here is a basic definition of validation:
Listening and observing, reflective statements, nonverbal signs of listening, being open and curious, and stating unspoken signs of emotions.

As a Rec. Therapist, I need to be mindful of what my body is communication.
Don’t ask “Why” questions because this puts a person on the defensive side. State, “I’m curious to know, could you explain to me.”

Here are some good tips:
Recognize past learning.
Focus on here and now (and not yesterday or previous problems)
Talk in a soft, calm tone of voice, have an open stance, use eye-contact, and even silence can be a type of validation. Be a good listener. Connect with the individual/ patient and try to be in the moment.

Invalidation often leads to power struggles and arguments.

Here are some things that invalidate a person:
Missing the point, using should/ ought, making it sound easy, assuming/ generalization.

Evidenced-based practice:

Validation creates a therapeutic environment for positive growth and change. It is a great tool for de-escalation, hope and healing. It assists in creating change and maintaining health.

Based on my personal experiences, I think “validating others” is a skill that comes natural to many people in the human-service/ helping field.

Recreational therapists may want to consider taking trainings: on mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance.

Here are two recommended resources:

And here is one more:

Programmatic Quality (before and after a CTRS)

2011-09-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the “Programmatic Quality: Before and After the Introduction of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).” It was presented by Carolyn McDowell, M.Ed., CTRS on Wed. Sept. 21, 2011 at the American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s 2011 annual conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Carolyn had presented the effects of creating a CTRS position for a day program that served adults with developmental disabilities. She covered the restructuring of the program, satisfaction surveys (prior to) and (after) a CTRS, and the justification for a CTRS position.
I’m very pleased with what Carolyn has been doing!

Penn-Mar Human Services in the Baltimore area has been providing services for consumers since 1980.

Carolyn was hired as a CTRS in 2012. The day program was previously described as, “oh, that is a place where they do arts and crafts.”

Carolyn didn’t want the day program to be described this way. She took time to survey consumers, families, and staff.

Previously consumers were passively sitting all day. Some of the consumers would participate in a preferred activity such as a book or puzzle. There weren’t any real activity programming being provided for the consumers. They were sitting around in an activity room (that looks like a warehouse).

Carolyn was specifically hired to quality assurance. She helped to assure quality programs were being provided for this program. The new programs consisted of: social skills training, expressive arts, physical fitness at the gym, and a self-selected activity time. There are also community outings too.

In one year (from 2010 to 2011) surveys showed that consumers were more actively engaged in programs. Carolyn claimed that they’re not where they want to be yet, but they have made positive changes.

I think what Carolyn is doing for this population is wonderful. She is helping assure that consumers are receiving quality programs that could help the consumer to develop skills that could help them to obtain a job.

The benefits (as evidenced by 2011) surveys show improvement in a one-year timeframe!
Here are some of the take-home lessons that I received from this session:
Develop a satisfaction survey for the patients/ customers/ clients/ students/ consumers who you’re providing services for. I think a simple rating scale would be appropriate (“0” meaning not happy at all to “5” being very happy with numbers in between.
Questions could focus on several areas of programming, including:

Social, physical, cognitive, leisure, spiritual, time of group sessions, schedule, group setting/ environment, etc. Naturally questions should reflect the population being served. These questions should also be worded so the consumers taking the survey would understand it.

I had the opportunity to do something similar to what Carolyn has done while I was working on my graduate degree in Recreational Therapy while taking a consulting course at Indiana University.

I surveyed patients and staff about programs at a residential treatment facility for teens with offending issues in 2004. I regret to say I don’t have these survey results here right now. Several of the teens wanted more activities during group times opposed to watching t.v. and movies. They wanted more physical fitness activities too. Here was one of my surprise findings. Several of the direct care staff who oversees patients didn’t feel comfortable with providing group activities due to lack of experience, training, and other reasons.

I developed an Activity Training Program that taught the direct care staff how to lead group activities. I enjoyed providing the training session the most! And I felt the staff at this program got a lot of benefits from the training too. I should have done a follow-up on the training.

You may want to develop a satisfaction survey for your setting to assess your own setting. Develop improvement plans, Implement them and evaluate the outcomes. It sounds like the Rec. Therapy APIE process to me.

Teambuilding Interventions (Teaching boundaries)

2011-09-24T21:03:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend the “Teambuilding with Offenders/ Boundaries Session by M. Gail Cecil, CTRS. This was presented at the 2011 Annual American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The focus of this session was on implementation of teambuilding activities for people who need to develop healthy and appropriate boundaries. Persons with this need could be offenders who lack empathy for others.

She defined teambuilding as activities that are designed d to encourage people to work cooperatively. She defined cooperation as working together: the act of working or acting together to achieve common goals.

Gail Cecil provides services for about 460 male sex offenders who are 19 years or older at a detention and treatment facility.

Gail points out that a Rec. Therapist can’t run something she (or he) has not done before. Basically, the Rec. Therapist needs to have competencies in the interventions she (or he) is providing.

Gail also points out the importance of debriefing at the end of a session. She says that if you don’t debrief then it is just an activity. The debriefing is the part that makes it therapeutic. Here are some general guidelines for debriefing: equal circle so eye contact can be made with everyone. Start questions with things the Rec. Therapist observed in the group session. What were the group’s difficulties? How did they overcome these challenges? Or how could they have done better? Gail likes to get the “Bad: out of the way first and then move towards the positives. I like this idea. End the session on a positive note. What were their strong points and strengths? What did the group participants do well?

The purpose of the debriefing is basically: how are these skills going to help you (the participant) in the future?

I’ve heard these “debriefings” called different things in different settings. I often use the word, “wrap-up” when working with children in adolescents. Some therapists who I work with call it “processing” the group session.

Here are some of the general expectations that Gail Cecil pointed out for teambuilding:
Diversity, respect, acceptance, goal-oriented, using resources, collaboration, communication, etc.
An Ice-Breaker Activity

Gail uses ice-breakers to assess a group and to determine the people who she is providing services for. It is a good way to observe the group dynamics. Look for people who are leaders, followers, and for people who lack boundaries.

She provided an ice-breaker activity to help the participants who attended this group session to get to know each other. She made the comment that we Recreational Therapists sit around the big tables at the general sessions and lunches and have the basic conversations: Where are you from? What population do you serve? What setting do you work in? I’m sure I laughed aloud because that seems to be so true based on my expectations from attending conferences. Here is a picture of the dining hall at the 2011 ATRA conf. in Indy (to the right).

During this ice-breaker activity that Gail facilitated, “each participant shared their name and a favorite place. I regret to say that I can’t remember all of the participants in my little circle. However, I did have the opportunity to meet Anel Van Rooy, CTRS who was sitting right beside me. She said her favorite place was her parent’s farm. I noticed that her accent was different from ones that I know, but I couldn’t place where she was from. Naturally, Gail’s ice-breaker headed into more conversations. I asked Anel where her parent’s farm is at. Anel told our small group circle that she is from South Africa, which, I think is really awesome.

Anel earned her B.A. in Recreation from North Western University and her graduate degree at Eastern Washington University. She is going to take a lot of neat things back to South Africa with her! I was glad I had the opportunity to meet her and so many other Recreational Therapists who are doing wonderful things.

Gail introduced a second question once all of the group participants had answered the first one. She had us state when was the last time we had visited our favorite place.
Other ice-breaker questions that Gail pointed out where to have group members
to:

a.) Answer: Who am I?

b.) Line up and get in alphabetical order by first name. Gail had us to practice this one too, however, we had to be silent and we couldn’t use sign-language. We could use body language and non-verbal communication.

c.) Make a shape. This is where the group members hold a rope or string. They must form shapes with the string. Gail suggested state borders. In example: Colorado would be easy to create because it is more of a square shape. West Virginia would be a little difficult however, but I’d like to see a group try to do it. I provide services for children and I have a deck of cards that show the state borders and it has facts on the back. I plan to use this deck of cards! I’m having a Halloween carnival at our residential facility in October. This is for diversion and beyond their typical day of therapy activities. I plan to have several small groups of children participating in teams to create Halloween shapes: pumpkin, ghost, haunted house, etc. We’ll compare each of the three to four team’s shapes. Gail suggested using toilet tissue if the placement does not allow ropes or strings due to precautions.

More Interventions

Cecil had the participants in this training to participate in several other activities that we could take back to our own facilities and use as interventions.
Gail had hand-outs for activities titled: traffic jam, I am the egg man, Ultimate, What are your values?, and read my emotions. I’m going to email Gail to see if she’ll email me these documents so I can post them at this blog.

Here are some of the resources she suggested:

"Coordinator" for Senior Living in Greensboro, NC

2011-09-24T17:57:00.000-07:00

The following new job(s) match your submitted criteria.

Title: Clare Bridge Coordinator
Job Category: Allied Health: Recreational Therapy
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
Note: Click the location link above to see a map of this location. The best available map will be displayed depending on if a real City name and Zip Code are posted.
Position Is For: Regular Full Time Employment
Position Posted By:
Company: Brookdale Senior Living Inc.
Click The Link Below To See The Complete Posting And Contact Information:
http://www.healthjobsusa.com/cgi-bin/search.cgi?action=display&ID=99307914&source=jsa

This runner has sportsmanship!

2011-09-22T21:34:00.001-07:00

Here is a good article about sportsmanship that you might want to read. It inspired me.

Go to this link:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/highschool/blog/prep_rally/post/Runner-carries-injured-foe-half-mile-to-help-in-?urn=highschool-wp6171

Rec. Therapy in Public Schools.

2011-09-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

I had the great privilege and opportunity to attend the “Recreational Therapy in School Settings: Current Status and Future Directions” at the 2011 American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) conference.

It was provided by: Lisa Mische Lawson, Ph.D., CTRS (of Kansas City area), Kathy Coyle, Ph.D., CTRS, and by one practitioner: Thea Kavanaugh, CTRS (New Mexico).

Note: Thea claimed that she found her position via the RecreationTherpay.Com job page. That web-site is operated by my good friend and fellow West Virginian Charlie Dixon. Here is the link: http://www.recreationtherapy.com/jobs

Okay, let me get back to the session. Sometimes I get off on tangents when I’m writing.
The purpose of this session was the take a look at the current status of Recreational Therapy in the school systems. There are Recreational Therapists in a number of schools throughout the United States. Several states were shared aloud. My state “West Virginia” was not one of them. I already knew this.

Recreational Therapists could work in three different positions for schools

These could include:

Full-time staff

Consultant

Contractual employee. I think any real go-getter could create businesses and start providing services as a contractual employee.

Overall it will take strong advocacy! A Rec. Therapist could attend a local Board of Education meeting!

A Recreational Therapist can’t just go in and do anything in the school setting.

There are regulations.

Recreational Therapists in community settings must follow the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Recreational Therapists in behavioral health and rehabilitation must follow Medicare.

Recreational Therapists in Schools must follow the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and No School Left Behind.

The good news is that “Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation” is a covered service under IDEA. A child with special needs has the right to these services when they can help a child to function more independently in a school setting.

IDEA mandates: zero rejection, non-discriminatory evaluation, appropriate education, and least restrictive environment.

The services must be listed on the child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). It might not specify for a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) to provide the services. The rules vary from state to state. Most states will claim the highest qualified person. Naturally, a person with CTRS credentials would be the most qualified to provide Therapeutic Recreation (TR) a.k.a. Rec. Therapy services. This would be an easy argument to make if interpretation of the best qualified was an issue.

It is important that the IEP is written in a way that demonstrates the child will function more independently in the educational setting.

Thea had shown several examples of her IEP goals, quarterly progress reports, and annual progress reports for students. I think she is very through and she is setting a good example for recreational therapists in all settings. I felt very inspired by the picture slideshow of the things she is doing to help the children in her school district! It looked awesome! I’m so glad the students there have her.

There are four things that a Recreational Therapist in a school setting can do:

Assessments

Planned Therapeutic Recreation (TR) interventions

Social skills training/ Activity skills training, Leisure Education

Recreation opportunities/ Community

It is important that Recreational Therapists are using interventions that are based on research. Evidenced-based practice is important. It shows that interventions have been proven to be effective. The school system calls this Scientific Evidence Practice.

There are several laws that RTs should know about:

Clarion-Goldberg, Comm. School Dist. (1994) showed that leisure goals can be on an IEP

Re Child with Disabilities (1993) showed that social skills can be on an IEP

Franklin # 5 School Dist. (1985): a child with autism had been banned from afterschool program due to disruptive behaviors (which is typical for a child with his diagnosis). This law showed that a child can’t be denied services due to his (or her) disability.

Two more to look up and know about are:
Montgomery Co. Public Schools (1998) and Silsbee Independent School District (1997).
Information can also be found at:
http://www.wrightslaw.com/

I work in a residential behavioral health treatment setting. We have an on-campus school. Sometimes a child will arrive to our facility with an IEP. I’ve never seen one that identified a Recreational Therapist as a “Service Provider.” I think that would be awesome!

There are many things that I provide at the facility that could be on an IEP for a child with special needs. Some of the interventions that I provide include: assertiveness training, social skills training, conflict resolution skills, community re-integration, opportunities for physical fitness, leisure education, and recreation/ activity task skills.

I don’t do much with fine-motor skills or transition skills. There have been a limited amount of children with these needs.

You can get in touch with Thea Kavanaughat the ATRA site here. Note: you must be a member of ATRA to access this forum:

http://atra-online.com/forumviewmessage.cfm?forumnbr=6775&topicnbr=13582&discussionnbr=786585

ATRA also offers a good book Therapeutic Recreation in Special Education. Here is a link for that book:

http://atra-online.com/storelistitem.cfm?itemnumber=85

Rec. Therapy in Pediatric Pain Rehab.

2011-09-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

I had the great privilege to attend and participate in the training session on “The Role of Recreational Therapy (RT) in Pediatric Pain Rehabilitation Program” by Gayle Kanary, CTRS. This was the first session she has presented and I'm glad she did because I admire her a lot. She is providing many neat RT interventions for Peds. in pain.

Gayle is a Recreational Therapist at the Children’s Hospital, Cleveland Clinic, Shaker Campus.

This is a three-week Pediatric Pain Program Rehabilitation and it is CARF accredited.

She played a quick video at the start of this session about their program. I felt very impressed at their overall program and what they’re doing to help children who are in pain. The video showed Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and of course, Recreational Therapists!

You can watch that video at this link. It is a smaller video on the right side of the screen: http://my.clevelandclinic.org/childrens-hospital/specialties-services/therapy-rehab/pain-rehab.aspx

The children who are admitted into this program are diagnosed with some type of pain. It could be Headaches (chronic daily or migraines), abdominal pain, Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Fibromyalgia, or pain associated disability syndrome.

I felt that I [Danny Pettry] had empathy for this population. I know what it is like to experience pain. I had dislocated my left shoulder from a skateboarding accident in 1996 (when I was 16-years-old). It was quite painful. This accident was during the summer so I didn’t miss any school. I had outpatient Physical Therapy (PT) and I thought PT meant Painful Things. It hurts, but it does get movement back.

Back to the training session:

The Pediatric Pain Rehab Program is designed to help get the child back to a full day of school, return to leisure and sports, recognize stressors in her (or his) daily life, use new tools to cope with stress and to help the individual switch from being in a “sick” role to more of a healthy/ well, role.

Their program is chockfull of individual and group sessions. The child isn’t allowed to stay-in-bed at this facility. Their day is full of sessions including: Aquatics, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Psychology, Recreational Therapy, School, Nutrition, and Music Therapy.

Their treatment staff acknowledges the child’s pain and express belief in it from day to day. They do not promise to eliminate the pain. They do help the child to change her (or his) mindset so that pain is no longer the focus.

Their program takes a holistic approach.

Although my [Danny Pettry] personal background has been in Behavioral Health with pediatrics, I think I would enjoy working in a rehabilitation setting like this one.

It appears to be rewarding work based on my observations from this training session.

Gayle uses two assessments. The CAPE/PAC is a standardized assessment designed by Occupational Therapist. This tool works for her population and she selected it with the help/ assistance of the OTs who work at her facility. She also uses the “Pie of Life” assessment. This is a circle with all the hours of the day from midnight until midnight. The child colors each part of the pie a different color for activities, including: sleep, school, homework, passive leisure activities, active/ physical leisure activities, etc. She said that many of the children have a lot of time napping, sleeping, and being passive during the day.

Gayle does so many wonderful Recreational Therapy Interventions to help each child to get back to life.

Here is a brief summary of the RT Interventions she facilitates:

Aerobics: dance, Zumba, pool.

Use of the swimming pool: swimming laps, treading in water, running, jumping, steps, noodle work, weight balls, and teambuilding.
She went into detail about the expressive arts projects that she provides. I plan to implement some of these interventions to assist the patients who I provide services for in learning how to express themselves.

Journaling: each child receives a prompt for the day. The child can choose to share aloud or not. It is their choice.

Body Drawing: The child’s body outline is traced on a giant sheet of paper. Each child has to write something about each of these parts: eyes, heart, ears, mouth, hands, and feet. It can’t be generic like my eyes are blue. It must be in more detail.

Masks: They can decorate a mask. They can choose to draw what they’re feeling for the day, a feeling they frequently have, a feeling they try to display to others, a feeling they’d prefer to have. They write words and phrases on the inside of the mask about what they have learned about themselves.

Inside-Outside Box consists of a heart-shaped box. The child decorates the oustisde of the box with words that describe what others know about them. They put words on the inside of the box that are hidden from other people. They can also put their hopes and dreams on the inside of the box.

Qualit making: the child receives a quilt square. I [Danny Pettry] don’t sew. I’d have my children draw the picture on a sheet of paper and compile them as a quilt. Gayle will hang the small qulity sheets from the ceiling.

Time Capsule: This is a good family intervention. At the start of the program she has the child to write letter to future self. A parent writes a letter to a future self. The child can open it when she (or he) is discharged.

Community Re-integration: The patient sets a goal to practice new skills in the community. They can go to a zoo, hiking, museum, or beach.
Their program also offers evening activities that could consist of: games, crafts, movies, outside activities.

Reiki: This is a Japanese technique of stress reduction that Gayle knows how to use.
It promotes healing. ATRA is providing training on this topic at the ATRA conference. I regret to say that I’m not attending this training. This is based on an unseen life force energy that flows through us. It sounds interesting to me.

Gayle pointed out a few important reminders:
Regular exercise decreases stress, anxiety and depression.

Remember to help the person to return to fun and functioning!

Gayle said that they help the patient to control her (or his) response to the pain. The therapists help to motivate, encourage, and support the patient!

Overall, I give this session an: “A +”

I think it was awesome!

Here is a link for their program:
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/childrens-hospital/specialties-services/therapy-rehab/pain-rehab.aspx

Networking

2011-09-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

Looking for great ways to network with other professionals in our field?

Look no further. Here are four great ways to network:

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) offers several great ways to network. First, “Friend” ATRA on Facebook. You don’t have to be a member of ATRA to be their friend on Facebook. Go here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/americantherapeuticrecreationassociation

Second, Join the ATRA ListServ. Again, you don’t have to be a member of ATRA to join this. Go here to subscribe. It is easy to do: http://www.atra-online.com/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=98

Third, participate in the ATRA forum online. I think you might need to be an ATRA Member to participate in this online forum. You can post questions and get answers! http://www.atra.affiniscape.com/forum.cfm

Fourth, participate in one of the treatment networks that ATRA has. They’ve got several, including: behavioral health, geriatrics, physical rehab and medicine, and pediatrics. I believe you need to be an ATRA member to participate in this one.

Congratulations to Heather Homes!

2011-09-20T16:43:00.001-07:00

Heather Holmes had won the Linda Levine-Madori Scholarship!

This is a scholarship that offers support to an ATRA Member who is a single parent and is sponsored by Dr. Linda Levine-Madori.

I hope she has had a wonderful time at the conference!

Michigan TR Association!

2011-09-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

The Michigan Therapeutic Recreation Association had won the American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s “Affiliate of the Year!”

Congratulations Michigan!

Visit their web-site here:
http://www.mtra-tr.org

Excellence in Education Award

2011-09-20T16:33:00.001-07:00

Recreational Therapy Program at Florida International University had won the American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s Excellence in Education Award this year!

Congratulations to my good friend Dr. Alexis McKenney, CTRS who has done a great deal to keep their program alive.

Their school has a really nice web-site for Recreational Therapists too. Check it out here:
http://www.iamarecreationaltherapist.com

Career in Denver, CO

2011-09-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

The following new job(s) match your submitted criteria.

Title: Resident Program Specialist
Job Category: Allied Health: Recreational Therapy
Location: Denver, Colorado
Note: Click the location link above to see a map of this location. The best available map will be displayed depending on if a real City name and Zip Code are posted.
Position Is For: Regular Full Time Employment
Position Posted By:
Company: Brookdale Senior Living Inc.
Click The Link Below To See The Complete Posting And Contact Information:
http://www.healthjobsusa.com/cgi-bin/search.cgi?action=display&ID=98796575&source=jsa

Rec. Therapist: Need Malpractice Insurance?

2011-09-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Rec. Therapist,

Do you need insurance?

I use HPSO. They sent me an email reminder that I needed to renew my insurance.

I thought other RTs might be interested in this.

HPSO Malpractice Insurance

Dr. Peg Connolly and the scholarship winners!

2011-09-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

I ran into Dr. Peg Connolly at the CEU booth this morning at the 2011 ATRA conf. in Indy.

She was talking to Sandra Negley (the 2006-2007 ATRA President) at the desk. They're both very friendly people!

I’m always glad to see Dr. Peg Connolly! She was a founding member and the first President of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA). She was also the former Executive Director for the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).

She has done a lot for our profession.

I was very fortunate to have won the ATRA student scholarship in 2004 to attend the national conference in Kansas City. I was acknowledged as “a Peg” along with several other students.
Please note that I had applied for the Peg Connolly scholarship twice during my undergraduate degree years at Marshall University (in Huntington, West Virginia) and didn’t win the scholarship. I was very disappointed. I was persistent and continued applying. I applied while working on my graduate degree at Indiana University and had won.

That is just my little spill on being persistent.

The Peg Connolly Scholarship is a very rewarding program.

I also had the opportunity to help train the Peg Connolly Scholarship Winners at the 2009 conference in Minneapolis. It was really great having the opportunity to work with them. It felt inspiring to see the next generation of upcoming professionals.

Here is a list of the Peg Connolly Scholarship Winners this year:

Mallory Meehan (Texas State University)

Constance Cybulski (Western Illinois University)

Jasmine Townsend, M.S., CTRS, Doctoral Candidate (Indiana University). Note: Jasmine was also working at the CEU booth this morning CEU form. I had the chance to talk to her after one of the trainings and she told me about working towards her Ph.D.

Brent Hawkins, M.S., CTRS, LRT/CTRS (Clemson University).

Ashley Hinzmann, CTRS (The University of Iowa)

Sandy Ung (Grand Valley State University)

Shannon O’ Rawe (Western Carolina University)

Megan Hunt (Western Carolina University)

People I've seen @ ATRA

2011-09-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

I’ve seen many people at the 2011 American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) conference.

I’ve been very pleased to have seen the following individuals:

David Austin, Tim Passmore, Thom Skalko, Peg Connolly, Ray West, Bob Riley, Michael Sutherland, Lisa Morgan Mary Ann Aquardro.

I also saw my former internship supervisor Alane Thomas (an ATRA Lifetime Professional Member). She was my supervisor at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia. I was shocked to see her here, but I shouldn’t have been. I laughed that I had to come all the way to Indianapolis to catch up with her. We’re both still in Huntington.

Tomorrow, Tue. 20, 2011, I plan to attend:

Pediatric Pain Rehab – I have a long-term goal of working with pediatrics in rehab.

Recreational Therapy (RT) In Schools – I work at a residential setting with an on-campus school, so I thought it would be beneficial to attend this.

Team Building for Offenders. I provide empathy training and social skills training and I thought I might gain some useful information from this training.

I think these three courses would be insightful.

NCTRC Specialty Certification.

2011-09-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend a session on the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC)’s new Specialty Certification at the 2011 ATRA conf.

It was presented by two of the NCTRC credentialing specialists: Robin McNeal and Susan Kaufer (shown in the picture).

The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) is the benchmark for our profession. An individual who has earned this credential demonstrates that she (or he) has met the minimum standards needed for practice.

NCTRC created the specialty certification to acknowledge the CTRS who has met higher standards in one of the following areas:

Physical Medicine/ Rehabilitation (PMR)
Geriatrics (Geri)
Developmental Disabilities (DD)
Behavioral Health (BH)
Community Inclusion Services (CIS)

NCTRC pointed out rationales for the new specialty certification program, including:

a.) Provide incentive for the CTRS to advance her (or his) professional competence

b.) Develop areas of “specialization” in our profession (much like other professionals)

c.) Improve the CEU offerings at conferences. There will be more training offered in these specialty areas to help more people to earn the specialty certificate.

d.) This should help build a critical mass of graduate-level certificates. There are two paths to earning the specialty certification. One path includes a graduate degree in TR or RT. The individual would need to take a certain amount of course credit hours in the specialty area too. Many of our allied professionals have moved to advanced degrees as the bench mark to practice. Currently, RT/TR is still at the Bachelor Degree level. This new certificate program could help increase the number of practitioners in our field who have a Master’s degree.

I [Danny Pettry] have not applied for one of these yet.

I feel I have met all of the requirements for the Behavioral Health. I am going to apply, but I plan to wait and do it during my 5-year CTRS cycle so they’ll both be on the same cycle.

For more information, visit NCTRC here:

http://www.nctrc.org/SpecCert.htm

Heart Rate Variability

2011-09-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

I attended a training titled: “Using heart rate coherence and variability as indicators of well-being” at the ATRA conference this morning.

It was presented by Diane Groff, Ed.D., LRT/CTRS.
I’m a big fan of this and I have attended similar trainings at nearly every ATRA conference I’ve attended: Annual in Kansas City, Mid-year in D.C. area, Annual in Minneapolis, and today’s session.

I’ve decided that I must start using this with the patients who I serve in my own practice.
Diana had shown data from cancer survivors that showed why the Heart rate coherence and heart rate variability are important to well-being.

I think this is wonderful!

I provide services for children who have had explosive physical and verbal outbursts. I think this equipment could be a great pro-active tool for teaching the child how to self-regulate her (or his) emotions.

We, recreational therapists can have a strong impact in regards to emotions.

Naturally, people experience a wide-range of emotions. All people feel anxious, stressed, angry, or sad from time to time. Recreational Therapists can apply “Choice Theory” when working with clients to help teach them that they can decide how long they want to stay in a certain emotional state.

There are techniques that can help a person to move into more balanced states.

The basic techniques taught during this session include:
a.) Deep-breathing (in through the nose and out through the mouth)
b.) Focus on heart (as in breathing out of your heart area)
c.) Focus on a time (and actually feeling) love and appreciation.

The computer monitor had showed the measurements on the screen with a volunteer.

Diane Groff had first got a baseline to show where the volunteer is on a normal basis. She then asked some very difficult math and history questions to purposely stress the volunteer. The monitor showed dramatic changes on the screen immediately as the volunteer was trying to solve these. Diane said that with enough practice a person could learn to control their HRT and HRC so they would not respond in a negative way. It takes some practice.

There is a company called the Institute of HeartMath that had several products that measure heart rate coherence (HRC) and heart rate variability.

There web-site is:
http://www.heartmath.org

I plan to order their hand-held device for both personal and professional use.

I hope to teach the children who I provide services for to learn how to self-regulate their emotions so they can be in a more calmer state so they’re better able to solve difficult situations in non-violent methods.

Diane gave a list with many resources, including: book and articles.

There are two books that I want to read:

1.) "The Coherent Heart: Heart-brain interactions" by R. McCraty, M. Atkinson, D. Tomasion, and R. T. Bradley.

2.) The appreciative heart: the psychophysiology of positive emotions and optimal functioning" by R. McCrary and D. Childre

JO ANNE HARRISON-BECKER [Resource]

2011-09-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

A NEW RESOURCE FROM THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SERVICES
CREATED BY YOUR FACEBOOK FRIEND JO ANNE HARRISON-BECKER

LEISURE TIME TRIVIA

65 PAGES OF TRIVIA IN LARGE BOLD PRINT (WITH ANSWER SHEETS)
USE FOR GROUP, ONE-TO-ONE AND INDEPENDENT ACTIVITIES
SENT TO YOU IN AN ADOBE PDF FILE -

- JUST PRINT OUT, PHOTOCOPY AND HAND OUT TO RESIDENTS

DESIGNED TO KEEP MINDS ACTIVE AND STIMULATED

ALL ANSWERS ARE FILL IN THE BLANKS

SOME OF THE CATEGORIES INCLUDED IN THIS RESOURCE

ALL IN THE FAMILY

ASSOCIATIONS

ANIMAL KINGDOM

ARTICLES OF CLOTHING

CHRISTMAS MUSIC

COLORFUL SONGS

DIFFERENT SHAPES

DISCO DANCING

EARTH SCIENCE AND WEATHER

EMOTIONS

EVERYTHING’S NEW!

FAMOUS PEOPLE

FEMALE VOCALISTS OF THE 50’S AND 60’S

FILMS OF BING CROSBY

FROM THE BIBLE

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

HALLOWEEN TRIVIA

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN

HISTORICAL EVENTS

HOME SWEET HOME

THE HUMAN BODY

INITIALS ONLY!

IN TOUCH WITH NATURE

LOOK FOR THE SUN

MONEY TALKS

NAME THE ANIMAL

NORTH, SOUTH, EAST OR WEST?

OCCUPATIONS

SPORTS TRIVIA

THANKSGIVING TRIVIA

THINK GREEN

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

TOP HITS OF THE 1940’S

TOP HITS OF THE 1950’S

TOP HITS OF THE 1960’S

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

WORDS FROM THE BIBLE

“Z” TRIVIA

$15.00 payable in U.S. Funds

-- All orders must be prepaid
Be sure to include your name and email address when ordering

Please make check or money order payable to:
Jo Anne Harrison-Becker
Therapeutic Recreation Services
104 Washington Circle West Hartford, CT 06119-2026

EMAIL MESSAGES I RECEIVED FROM FACEBOOK FRIENDS -- WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT LEISURE TIME TRIVIA

“I received this packet of trivia in early September and my residents love it. I incorporated it into my weekly memory classes. The residents work on a page during the class (as a group) and then take a page with them after the class to work on independently.”

“Finally, I have found a resource that I can use in my rehab unit. I photocopy ten pages and leave as a packet in the unit. Each week I put out a new packet.”

“I purchased this packet for my residents in assisted living about a month ago. Some of my family members contacted Jo Anne to order the trivia for other family members.”
“Fun and creative themes of trivia. My residents really enjoy!”

Jo Anne Harrison-Becker, MS
Recreation Therapist and Consultant
THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SERVICES
104 Washington Circle
West Hartford, CT 06119-2026
(Business) 860.233.8790 (Cell) 860.202.3360
Facebook http://facebook.com/mytherapeuticrecreation

Day # 1 ATRA 2011 & Josh Bleill

2011-09-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Indianapolis, Indiana for the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA conference today.

I made it in good time driving from Huntington, West Virginia.

However, once I was in town my GPS said that my approximate arrival time would be in 3-minutes. I thought sweet!

However, that 3-minute trip took me 2 hours and 20 minutes!

Why did it take so long once I was in town?

The Indiana Colts/ Cleveland Browns game had just ended and traffic was crazy. There were tons of people walking across the streets.

I had never seen so much blue and white in my life. Well, the Colts had lost to Cleveland. The final score was 27-19.

Every time I tried to make a turn the police had roadblocks in place that prevented me from turning the direction I needed. The GPS recalculated and I hit another road block (laugh aloud). It was an adventure. I drove by the state capitol building once. It is a big capitol.

I arrive and discover that I was scheduled to arrive yesterday and that I lost my room because I didn’t register yesterday. I felt angry because I had paid for the room. They worked with me and got me a new room on the first floor. Thank goodness. I get there and my room key didn’t work. I sighed because I knew the opening ATRA session had started. I just ran to it instead and unpacked my stuff after that.

I didn’t a notebook to write down important messages that I wanted to post at my blog here for the readers.

I did see the ATRA board and heard the announcement for the Presidential Award. I saw many leaders in the profession.

I was fortunate that I had the opportunity to hear Josh Bleill speak. I felt he was very inspirational. I didn’t have my camera. I forgot it in the rush so I didn’t get any pictures.

Here is an older youtube video of him speaking:

Here is the link for his book on Amazon, which I hope to eventually read:

2011 ATRA Conf.

2011-09-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Please visit my blog often during the next few days for updates on the ATRA conf.

I’m going to the annual American Therapeutic Recreation Association. It is in Indianapolis, Indiana this year. Woo-hoo. I graduated with my Master of Science degree from Indiana University!

I just love those Recreational Therapists!

I’ll be excited to see some of the leaders in the field again such as:

David Austin
Tim Passmore
Diane Skalko
Peg Connolly
Ray West
Bob Riley
Michael Sutherland

People who I hope and expect to see:
Lisa Morgan
Mary Ann Aquadro
Vicki Scott
Kari Kensinger

Personal Note from Danny Pettry:

I have been a good-standing member of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) since 2000. I’m not an official spokesperson for the professional association. The comments made at my blog are my personal views and opinions.

I highly encourage you to join our professional association if you have done so already. Go here to join today: http://www.atra-online.com/registernewmembers.cfm

CEU - Discount -- Limited Time Offer.

2011-09-10T23:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Rec. Therapist,

I’m writing to announce a special CEU offer that is limited to the first ten people.

Only 4 out of 10 spots left as of right now.

You can get the “Positive Psychology” (5 clock hour) CEU course
(a $77 value) when you pledge only $25 to help self-publish my upcoming book Almost Magical: 101 Quotes for Encouragement and Inspiration.

And I’ll throw in a few extra goodies too to help make this a little better for you.

You’ll also get:

Two (2) copies of Almost Magical [the book] (a $30.00 value) in mid Dec. 2011 just in time for the holidays. These books make great gifts.

A gift bag for a child (just in time for the holidays). (a $10 value). It includes a magical plush bunny, a mini notebook, pencils, ink pens, stickers, and a bounce ball. That is a Win-Win. Get a book for yourself and get a giftbag for your child or a child you know.

Pledge $25 at the link below
And select the “Rec. Therapist Special.”

Click Here to Pledge Today

Or go to this link to make a $25 pledge.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/announcing-the-magical-book-of-inspirational-quote/pledge/new?clicked_reward=false&logged_in=false&p=0&ref=search&v=u

You might want to hurry... Limited time only.
and only 9 spots left (as of now). Pledge Today!

You can download your self-study course at this link once you’ve made a pledge:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/announcing-the-magical-book-of-inspirational-quote/posts/116764

Enjoy.

Your friend,

Danny.

Learn how to Succeed (anytime).

2011-09-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Do you want to learn how to succeed when times are good, bad, or in between?

Mar Sanborn’s (2011) book, “Up, Down, or Sideways” shares some valuable lessons on success.

Fact # 1: You can’t control everything that happens to you.

Fact # 2: There aren’t any guarantees in life.

But, Here is the Good News:

There are some principles in life that are quite predictable. These truths don’t guarantee success, but they increase your odds of succeeding in spite of those things you can’t control.

And That is Exactly Why Mark Sanborn has written this book.

One of my [Danny Pettry’s] favorite quotes from the (2000) movie “Cast Away” starring Tom Hanks is: “Who knows what the tide could bring?”

Sanborn points out that life (and the economy) are like waves of the ocean. They may push us up, down, or sideways. Part I of his book focuses on “Seeing” and looking for the next wave like a good surfer would.

Sanborn suggests valuable tips for what we could be doing to make the most of the different cycles in life. This book is chock-full of wisdom.

Anyone who is interested in self-improvement, success, and finding their way in life should read this book!

You can get this book from Amazon at this link:

Mark Sanborn is the bestselling author of The Fred Factor and You Don’t Need a Title to be a Leader.

He is the president of Sanborn and Associates and he is in the business of developing leaders in business and in life. For more info., visit his web-site here: http://www.marksanborn.com/

Here is my video book review:

You can get this book from Amazon at this link:

NJ/ EPA Conf.

2011-09-05T16:45:00.001-07:00

Stacie Leap posted this comment in the "We are -- TR" Group/ Board on Facebook:

NJ/EPA TRA 2011 Conference "PaRTnering In Progress" November 14th & 1th, 2011. Held at the New Jersey Hospital Association Conference Center in Princeton, New Jersey. Look for their brochure, registration form, and additional information on their website at www.njepa-tra.com in early September or email Heather Burket at hkaten@gmail.com

Go here:

http://www.njepa-tra.com/

Contest -- Win a Book!

2011-09-03T13:20:00.001-07:00

Enter a contest for a chance to win a FREE book of motivational quotes!

Go here:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/announcing-the-magical-book-of-inspirational-quote/posts/115204

Nature Therapy for Wonunded Warriors

2011-09-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

I thought Rec. Therapists might enjoy reading about this:

Boulder Crest Retreat for Wounded Warriors will be a non-profit retreat featuring nature-focused therapeutic techniques to give America’s men and women in uniform suffering from injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder a calming, re-energizing place to visit for free

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/09/02/wounded-warriors-to-root-out-injuries-at-new-nature-therapy-retreat/#ixzz1WqvuWjQn

Download an e-book

2011-09-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

You can download an e-book for helping a child to be successful.

I thought this might a good resource for Rec. Therapists who work with children/ and or families to have.

Go here:

http://www.crchealth.com/aspen-adoption-download-01/

Undergraduate online courses in TR

2011-09-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

I received an email from a person a while back asking if there were any undergrad courses in TR. This person was short on a few courses in TR that she (or he) needed to sit for the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) exam.

I regret to say I can't remember who had asked me this question or sent me an email.

However, I did get info. in an ATRA List-Serv post today about online courses.

Here it is:

The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (UWM) offers 2 totally online courses each semester. This fall we are offering
THERREC 203 Recreation as a Therapeutic Intervention
THERREC 308 TR in Phys Rehab/Behavioral Health
Courses are taught in a traditional 15 semester format with various assignments due each week to keep students engaged in the course.
Classes start T 9/6 but enrollment is a possibility through the week.
Interested individuals will need to act quickly to apply to the university, register for the course and then log into the course management system.

Question may be directed to me at pthomas@uwm.edu

Spring courses will start mid January.

Patty

Patricia Thomas, MPA, CTRS
Clinical Associate Professor
TR Certificate Coordinator
UWM PO Box 413
Milwaukee, WI 53201
(414)229-2507
pthomas@uwm.edu

Rec. Director

2011-08-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

Campus Recreation is looking for a few students to become group exercise instructors.
This is for Lindsey-Wilson College.

We are flexible with your schedule.

Previous Activities Offered:
Aqua Fit
Awesome Abs
Boot Camp
Hip-Hop Dance
Hooping
Aerobics
Senior Aerobics
Spinning
Weighted Challenge
Spin Core
Zumba
Yoga

If you are interested in become a group exercise instructor please fill out an application at the HWC Front Desk.

Thank you,
Joel
petersonj@lindsey.edu

possible TR teaching position Pittsburg State Uni., Kansas.

2011-08-23T18:35:00.001-07:00

Charles Killingsworth sent this email via the ATRA List-Serv Today:

Hi! Just want to give as many of you as possible a heads-up that there MAY be a TR teaching position here at Pittsburg State University (Pittsburg, Kansas) within the next year. Initially and for 1-2 years, it may be an Instructor level position that could change to a full-time tenure-track position. The Recreation Degree program is COAPRT Accredited with a TR Option at this time and the plan is to continue with both. When more detailed in formation is available, we will keep you posted on the position.

It is my plan to ease away from teaching full time through what is called "phased retirement" - I am negotiating with the PSU Administration to possibly teach 3-4 On-line courses after this Academic Year for a year or two. We (my wife and I) plan to move to Southern Calif. next July/Aug. and I would teach a couple of classes from there as my phased retirement teaching load.

I suggest that anyone interested in the possibility of the potential position should become familiar with PSU, the Dept. (Health, Human Performance, and Recreation) and our Recreation Degree program.

New - Simple - Easy-to-Read Book!

2011-08-18T20:47:00.001-07:00

Praise for DannyPettry.Com Blog and e-Newsletter

2011-08-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

I asked people to share what they liked about my e-Newsletter and Blog for RTs.

Here is what people had to say:

I like updates on recreational therapy news.

Keeps me up-to-date on issues with RT. Also, introduces different CEU opportunities that I would otherwise not know about. Thanks for the great information.

Current news and updates and info about CEUs

It reminds me that I need to keep up with my CEUs

Helps keep me informed, reminds me to get some CEUs. I like the latest book reviews they have been very helpful and I enjoy reading them.

I enjoy the updates, the contest, all the info and opportunity for CEUs

I like Danny's style of writing; it is entertaining and not boring!
Thanks for keeping me informed of what is going on more time.

Danny Pettry's Recreational Therapy e-newsletter and Blog help to keep me focused, updated and current with my profession... It also keeps me in touch with new trends and motivates me. Also, I like the contests. I enjoy seeing the books Danny recommends and I enjoy getting my CEUs online.

As a fellow Recreational Therapist, I enjoy the information Danny shares. The information helps build a successful Recreational program at the SNF I currently work for. The positivity Danny expresses is such a wonderful enhancement! =)

It keeps me updated on the latest information. It is also useful when I need to get CEUs to assist with my recertification

Keeps you updated in the field of Rec Therapy

very informative, good resources

love his enthusiasm and devotion to the promotion of our profession!!!

I am just learning about the web site. Appears user friendly.

It's so nice to have a site that we can go to that offers us CEU's, resources, all things RT and RT focused. Thanks Danny!

Danny,
I frequently give out your information since so many travel bugets have been cut...folks are always looking for on-line CEU opportunities.
Thanks for providing these opportunities,
Becky

Because it keeps me updated on all the awesome things RT does for EVERYONE!!! :) And...the CEU courses....and prizes. ;)

I love getting Danny's e-Newsletter and reading his blog because it's just one more way to stay connected to other RT's and see what's new and happening around the TR Community. I took one of his courses and loved it, so that'll be something I'm going to do again soon (not just to get the CEU's either - the information and content are great!) I swear, each time I read his newsletter, there's something new and exciting in there - how does he do it?!? Last month, I was reading part of the newsletter to my coworker (who is not a CTRS) and she loved it so much that she signed up to receive it! Spreadin' the TR message one newsletter edition at a time...I love it! Thank you for providing this newsletter as just one more means of staying connected to the TR world.

Yes! I love the easy access to CEU courses and what's new in Rec Therapy :)

It keeps me in the 'loop' of current happenings its one of many places I check to stay current with the field I am isolated. Within my facility I am only CTRS professional

It’s informative about RT things going on around the country and I absolutely LOVE hearing about new treatment modalities that come available every month!! Thank you! :)

Enjoy reading the Rec Therapy articles, and looking over his suggestions for books. I think its important for individuals in the RT/TR field to network and keep up to date on current topics, and Danny's newsletter does a great job of mentioning a little blurb and then referring the reader to his blog or to an appropriate webpage/article. :)

Excellent, excellent suff!!! I love the information, passion for Recreation Therapy, and innovative streak he has in making his blog and newsletter so successful and widespread. He also has a very personal touch in all his follow-up contacts and snail mail notes, stickers, etc.

Mark Marble CTRS & Bethany Hamilton

2011-08-06T23:13:00.000-07:00

I had the great privilege to get to know Mark Marble, CTRS.

Mark is the President & CEO of AccesSurf Hawaii Inc.

He is friends with Bethany Hamilton. You may have heard about the recent movie about her story “Soul Surfer.”

Bethany is a good-hearted person. She helps at AccesSurf when her surfing schedule allow. She is a very great person and very inspirational.

Here are some pictures of Bethany submitted by Mark Marble when they did Extreme Home Makeover Edition. Bethany surfed with a family with needs while their home was being remodeled.

I [Danny Pettry] am very inspired by Bethany.

Here is the link to Mark’s AccesSurf Hawaii:

http://www.accessurf.org/

Danny Pettry recommends these books and DVDs for the RT:

Are you a Winner?

2011-08-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

I had a contest in July for Recreational Therapy Week/ Month.

This was a special contest to celebrate RT week and to provide an extra benefit for people who subscribe and follow my Recreational Therapy E-Newsletter and Blog.

Here are the major winners:
Note: Click on the link to see the prizes.

Becky G., N.C. won a Self-Study Course from my program

Chris C., CA won a Self-Study Course from my program.

Heather T., NC won a Rec. Therapy T-Shirt

Margaret A. , DE won a signed copy of my children’s book Building Character.

Evelyn M., FL won a Rec. Therapy coffee mug

Sarah S., CO won a copy of the book “99 Things You Should Know Before Stressing Out.”

Wendy T., OH won a copy of the book “55 Secrets Humans Should Know - Lessos from dogs.” [No link. sorry].

Congratulations to all of our winners.

All people who entered the contest will receive a handwritten message from Danny along with some stickers.