Recreational Therapy

My name is Rebecca Sowards and I am a declared Recreational Therapist major at the University of Utah.  In 2010, I joined a local non-profit organization called "Good in the Hood", which focuses on reaching out and building our communities.  The time I spent within my surrounding communities were some of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had and they really ignited a spark in me to participate in service.  Over the years my passion for reaching out to others has evolved into an emphasis of individuals with disabilities. 

I had the opportunity to intern for Utah's chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which was unforgettable.  Witnessing the process of a child's wish coming true and to be involved in the wish process was something explainable.  However, at the end of the internship, I realized I wanted more of a one-on-one interaction with children with disabilities.  When I selected Recreational Therapy as my professional route, not knowing much about it, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I agreed with its practice.  

Recreational Therapy, an impacting process, focuses on assessed and individualized needs of those with an illness or disabling condition.  A Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS) is a trained mentor that assesses, plans, and implements recreational or activity-based interventions.  She/he sets goals and objectives to break down preventing barriers and provides resources to achieve an overall physical, psychological health, recovery, and well-being. Recreational Therapy is my passion because it considers "health" more than just the absence of "illness".  Recreational therapy gears towards empowering individuals to participate in full and independent life pursuits through its use of recreational modalities.