Practice Setting: Center-Based Special Education School
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Holly K. became a recreational therapist because of her lifelong love of sports. After growing up participating in athletics and playing college softball, she was especially drawn to the adapted sports side of recreational therapy and the way it opens doors for individuals of all abilities.
For Holly, recreational therapy matters because it gives students meaningful experiences that build confidence, independence, social connections, and new interests. One of the most impactful programs she has offered is therapeutic horseback riding. Over the past three years, nearly every student who has participated has benefited—so much so that several families chose to continue lessons outside of school. Seeing students’ confidence grow over a six-week session has been one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Holly also highlights a common misunderstanding about the profession. Many people outside recreational therapy think it’s “just fun,” but she explains that the fun is intentional and purposeful. By learning each student’s interests and goals, she uses activities and games as therapeutic tools to help students work toward meaningful goals.
Recreational therapy, as Holly shows, is about more than activities—it’s about helping people discover confidence, joy, and independence.
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