Leadership

RT 420: Intervention Techniques in Recreational Therapy

This course introduced me to the techniques on how to facilitate and lead recreational therapy Interventions. During the lab, I practiced leading interventions, exploring modalities, and facilitation techniques. I learned how to cater to physical, mental, and social well-being. These experiences helped me learn how to adapt to various needs. Overall, this course was essential to learning how Recreational therapists improve quality of life through interventions and how they achieve it.

 

I was introduced to a wide range of essential skills Recreational Therapists in regard to implementation. The main being risk management and safety precautions. During this course, I was informed about different contradicted criteria that would make an activity unsafe for a client. As a future recreational therapist, safety is always a priority. I also learned how to understand and develop RT protocols, proper lifting techniques, and the stages of group development. All of these skills have been instilled in me and will occupancy me throughout the rest of my future RT career.  

 

The writing portion played a key part to the building blocks that made up this course. We were encouraged to reflect, think, and use our creativity to further our understanding throughout the chapters. Some of the coursework includes an activity analysis, intervention protocol, and journal critique. The takeaway project I am most proud of is my Journal Article critique. Reading research is very important and fuels my curious and creative mind. I love learning new things and hearing different perspectives. The journal I selected was about the effects of dancing on improving the mood of patients in a behavioral health unit. I have attached a copy of my critique below. I thoroughly enjoyed learned about this unique modality and the evidence behind the benefits it brings. 

 

This class was not only informative but meaningful. This course has made a lasting impact on me. I have walked away with an even bigger passion and excitement for my future career. It's one thing to learn about material in a class, but truly immersing yourself is different. I had so much fun using my creativity during the lab and facilitating. Something I learned about myself during group facilitation is how much I love to lead. As someone who was once a shy timid girl, I've grown up to be a woman who can project her voice and enunciate her ideas. I am very proud of the growth I’ve made as a student, and also as a person. I cannot wait to use what I learned to better the quality of life for my future clients.