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TR - We help to beat the odds
April 5 – 8, 2014
Holiday Inn – Saratoga Springs, NY
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Welcome from your
Conference Co-Chairs…
Welcome and thank you for joining us as we gather for the 19th
Annual NYSTRA Multi-Day Conference! We are excited to be back in
Saratoga Springs, NY – The Holiday Inn. We decided to return this
year to Saratoga Springs after reviewing the conference evaluations
completed by our members and conference attendees. We are excited
about being back and hope everyone else is as well.
As Recreation Therapists, we all strive to assist the population we
serve to meet goals and overcome the odds of the disability/illness.
We invite you to come and learn new ways to beat the odds through
the educational, social and professional networking opportunities
available to you during the conference.
We hope you find the time you spend here to be time where you
can learn some, grow some, play some, and dream some. Thank you
for joining us and we look forward to seeing all of you in Saratoga
Springs!
With best wishes for a wonderful 2014,
Daniele & Jen
Daniele Fish, CTRS/CDP and Jennifer Battle, CTRS
NYSTRA 19th Annual Conference Co-Chairs
~ 2014 Conference Committee ~
CONFERENCE CO-CHAIRS
Daniele Fish, CTRS/CDP & Jennifer Battle, CTRS
PROGRAM CO-CHAIRS
Daniele Fish, CTRS/CDP & Jennifer Battle, CTRS
REGISTRATION CO-CHAIRS
Steve Victory, CTRS & Robin Gallagher, CTRS
HOSPITALITY CO-CHAIRS
Daniele Fish, CTRS/CDP & Jennifer Battle, CTRS
VENDOR FAIR COMMITTEE
Susan Colletti, CTRS & Kat Klein, CTRS
NYSTRA 2013-2014 Board
PRESIDENT: Loretta Sinnott, CTRS/SBH
PRESIDENT ELECT: Susan Colletti, CTRS
PAST PRESIDENT: Joanne Auerbach, CTRS
TREASURER: Tameka Battle, MA, CTRS
SECRETARY: Leslie Hoot, CTRS
MEMBERS AT LARGE:
Annette Havens, CTRS
Cathy-Ann Branker-Diamond, CTRS
Daniele Fish, CTRS
Gillian Mayson, CTRS
Jennifer Battle, CTRS
Janet Cobb, CTRS
Janette Leonidas, CTRS
Sanya Robinson Williams, CTRS
WEBSITE:
Noelle Molloy, CTRS
Meet Lois McElravy –
Keynote Speaker for NYSTRA’s 19th
Annual Multi-Day Conference
Lois McElravy took for granted her extraordinary ability to figure things out and get things done. In her
twenties, she earned a reputation as the “go-to-girl” while working as the Advertising Coordinator for Buttrey
Food Stores. When a buy-out eliminated her job in 1986, Lois started her own business, working as a retail sales
and service rep for fifteen companies in twenty retail stores.
On February 7, 1990, life delivered a crushing blow when a utility truck violently crashed into her car. The
resulting brain injury shattered Lois’ promising future, but not her spirit. Doctors said two years post injury was
the best she could hope for her brain to recover. Even though her situation felt hopeless, Lois never gave up
striving to improve.
In 2005 Lois founded her motivational speaker business, Lessons from Lois. Drawing on her personal journey
of brain injury, Lois motivates, inspires and entertains international audiences with her playful sense of humor
and personal stories that impart a heartfelt message of perseverance and hope. She teaches humor as a coping
skill and equips people with strategies they can use to adjust to unexpected change, and overcome adversity.
Lois served 7 years on the Board of Directors for the Brain Injury Alliance of Montana and currently serves on
the Montana Governor's Advisory Council for Vocational Rehabilitation. Living with a brain injury has
provided Lois with an education that can not be taught in a University. She has "learned" a master's degree in
life experience. She jokes, "Instead of adding letters behind my name, I have added numbers...from new
diagnosis."
Saturday April 5, 2014
Pre-Conference Institutes (additional cost to conference registration)
Full Day Institute
9:00am –4:00pm (12:00pm-1:00pm lunch on own)
#1 Evidence-Based Practice in Therapeutic Recreation: The Why and the How
Norma Stumbo, CTRS – ATRA President
This workshop will focus on explaining why evidence-based practice is so very important to our clients and to
our future and will also take participants through the process of how to seek and use research evidence to
improve their daily practice. The first section will review the basics of evidence-based practice as well as
current research about two sets of programs – anger management and community integration – highlighting
what the research evidence says are best practices and applying that evidence to TR practice. Participants will
also work in small groups and individually to review research evidence for a variety of programs, coming up
with best practices that could/should be implemented in therapeutic recreation services. Not only will you learn
the process of applying evidence based practice, you will get the latest, best practice information on six sets of
TR programs. We guarantee that you will not practice the same old way after this workshop.
Half Day Institutes
9:00am –1:00pm
#2 Therapeutic Riding/Driving & Hippotherapy: “Horses Helping People”
New Forest Equestrian Center (Home of S.T.E.P.) 244 Maura Lane, Glenville, NY
(Limit of 35 Attendees. Pre-registration required. NO ONSITE REGISTRATION
ALLOWED FOR THIS SESSION)
Kay White, PT – Saratoga Therapeutic Equestrian Program
This will be an informative session using the horse in lecture and hands-on defining, describing, and
implementing therapeutic riding/driving and Hippotherapy into treatment sessions for consumers of all ages.
Learn the difference between Hippotherapy and Adaptive Therapeutic Riding, who will benefit from these
therapies, how to screen consumers for placement, and how to find the right services to fit the need.
Participants will learn the basics of goal setting for their consumers and will learn how to become a certified
instructor and/or volunteer who works with other healthcare professionals in achieving goals established. Learn
how the equine can facilitate not only physical changes, but emotional development and self regulation among
consumers. Be able to offer a most unique setting for consumers to grow functionally while engaging the
family within the community. Experience what your consumer will experience.
This is a hands-on, off site workshop taking place at the home of Saratoga Therapeutic Equestrian Program.
Please come dressed appropriately for being around horses and in an unconventional classroom
2:00pm –5:00pm
#3 The Adaptive Use Musical Instrument (AUMI): Music Technology Across Abilities
Leaf Miller, OTR – Deep Listening Institute
Technology is expanding access to the creative arts. AUMI is in innovative music software interface that tracks
the movements of the user in order to produce sounds and rhythmic patterns. While AUMI can be used by
anyone, the instrument was designed especially for children and adults with significant physical challenges.
AUMI transforms any computer into a user-friendly and expressive musical instrument, fostering inclusion and
independence for people with disabilities. This session will focus on an in depth demonstration of the AUMI
software and iPad app. Participants will learn the features, key points, benefits, and multi-faceted uses of this
breakthrough music technology in a variety of community settings. There will be opportunities for hands-on
experience with AUMI.
AUMI is available as a FREE Download: deeplistening.org/adaptiveuse
1:00pm –5:00pm
#4 NCTRC Study Group “Are YOU Ready?”
Raymond J. Archer, MA, CTRS - Stony Brook University Hospital
This four hour institute is designed to help CTRS EXAM Eligible participants to emotionally and mentally
prepare to sit for the CTRS exam. An overview of NCTRC’s job analysis and other components will be
reviewed to help understand the importance and value of the test. An emphasis will be placed on identifying
ways to alleviate the stress as well as identifying techniques in relieving test anxiety. A review of definitions,
diagnosis, treatment modalities and laws will be a few of the major areas discussed. This session will break
down into some small study groups to review some practice study tests. Finally a brief discussion will close the
session on how CTRS Certification will help prepare one for getting licensed.
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Keynote
9:00am –10:30am
#5 Survive and Thrive with Humor, Hope, and Happiness
Lois McElravy – Lessons from Lois
Personal stories that reflect attitudes and perseverance that enabled her to regain self confidence and manage the
challenges of living with a Traumatic Brain Injury will be shared. Lois will share her emotional journey;
highlight the turning points and lessons learned. Participants will learn about the complexities of living with a
TBI and how variables and vulnerabilities further impact a survivor’s capability.
Break – 10:30am – 10:45am
Concurrent Sessions – 10:45am–12:15pm
#6 The Long Term Mental Health Effects of Bullying in Adolescents and the Role of the
RT (Double Session – Must Attend Both #6 & #11 for CEU Credit)
Loretta Sinnott, CTRS/SBH – Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center – Pinefield Children & Youth
We hear so much about millions of teens getting bullied each day. It is on the news, in our schools, and now we
are seeing an increase of adolescents in inpatient psychiatric hospitals due to the effects of bullying and the way
the teens are coping. During this session we will explore the reasons why bullying takes place, the long term
effects on ones mental health, and most importantly, what we as Recreation Therapists can do to help prevent
bullying while helping adolescents rebuild who they are after being bullied.
#7 Using Orienteering to Help Your Patients Find Their Way to Better Mapping and
Problem Solving Skills (Limit 25 attendees)
Connie Todt, CTRS – Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital
Russ Myer – Capital Region Nordic Alliance
Orienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills using a map to navigate from point to point.
Originally a training exercise in land navigation for military officers, orienteering has developed many
variations. This presentation will show how orienteering can be used in a clinical setting to meet patient goals
as they relate to mapping, problem solving, and following directions. This session will also demonstrate how
the activity can be adapted for various levels and settings, challenging individuals to explore and experience
their environment. Included will be an experiential portion for participants to experience orienteering and the
potential benefits for their patients and themselves.
#8 Advancing Professional Development in TR: What’s Next for the TR Graduate
Tameka Battle, MA, CTRS, CDP – CUNY Lehman College
After years in college embarking on starting a career in TR, graduates are catapulted into a world of exploration
in planning their career in TR. Graduates face using invaluable time making the transition from college to the
workforce. This session will provide helpful advice and resources to the student and/or new graduate to
determine which career track would allow them to be more marketable in the ever changing healthcare arena.
Information on actual work experiences, resources, what to expect from your supervisor, and strategies for
preparation to take the national CTRS exam will be discussed.
#9 Diagnostic Protocols: Standardizing TR Practice using Evidence-based Interventions
Robin Kunstler, ReD, CTRS – CUNY Lehman College
Diagnostic protocols identify the symptoms of a diagnosis, appropriate evidence-based interventions, and
expected outcomes. As a professional tool, diagnostic protocols can enhance TR service delivery by
standardizing programming across settings. This session will cover how to construct a diagnostic protocol,
review sample protocols, practice in protocol development, and suggested interventions for several diagnoses
and evidence to support their use. Resources for evidence-based practice will be discussed.
#10 A Model of Interdisciplinary Education/Practice: The Center for Life Skills
Catherine Gooch, CTRS – Center for Life Skills – Ithaca College
Ithaca College Students – Ethan Solomon, Lena Kuchera, Sara Fisher, & Arianna Dean
Ithaca College, with an outstanding tradition in allied health training and outreach, provides interdisciplinary
experiential learning opportunities for students and faculty at the Center for Life Skills. The Center for Life
Skills programs offers interdisciplinary interventions for stroke survivors (CVA) and experiential learning for
allied health students, was developed as a means to break through the common barriers to interdisciplinary
education. This session will cover the design of the program, program initiatives, research, challenges, and
outcomes of this model program.
12:15pm –2:00pm – Lunch and Visit Vendor Fair
If you are participating in the “Take a Student to Lunch” program, please meet your
student/professional at the registration table at 12:30pm.
Concurrent Sessions – 2:00pm–3:30pm
#11 The Long Term Mental Health Effects of Bullying in Adolescents and the Role of the
RT (Double Session – Must Attend Both #6 & #11 for CEU Credit)
Loretta Sinnott, CTRS/SBH - Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center – Pinefield Children & Youth
We hear so much about millions of teens getting bullied each day. It is on the news, in our schools, and now we
are seeing an increase of adolescents in inpatient psychiatric hospitals due to the effects of bullying and the way
the teens are coping. During this session we will explore the reasons why bullying takes place, the long term
effects on ones mental health, and most importantly, what we as Recreation Therapists can do to help prevent
bullying while helping adolescents rebuild who they are after being bullied.
#12 Overview of NCTRC Recertification and Specialty Certification Programs
Noelle Molloy, CTRS – NCTRC
This session provides an in depth coverage of recertification standards and requirements. Continuing education
and professional experience will be described in detail. This session will also introduce the NCTRC Specialty
Certification Program that was developed to formally recognize CTRS’s who have acquired advanced
knowledge and experience in specific practice settings.
#13 Using Books and Movies as TR Facilitation Techniques (Limited to 25 attendees)
Jeremy Cash, CTRS – Saint Joseph’s College
This presentation will expose participants to the use of books and movies as possible TR facilitation techniques.
Popular books, such as Harry Potter, have been utilized to help young people work through feelings of loss.
Movies like “When a Man Loves a Woman,” have been utilized to help people suffering from addiction, as well
as family members, who are involved. These powerful and popular books and movies are potentially valuable
tools to add to the Recreation Therapists bag.
#14 Creating an Adaptive Sports Program
Susan Pisano, MS, CTRS – VA Medical Center Northport
Patrick Campbell – VA Medical Center Northport
This presentation will provide information on how to create Adaptive Sports & Events Service within your
facility and how to coordinate functions amongst the different specialties and services. Obtaining support of
facility based Adaptive Sports Committees to promote and oversee adaptive sports initiatives are a key
component. How to evaluate resources currently available within your community, and identifying participants,
stakeholders, and staff who are interested in adaptive sports will be discussed. As well as obtaining funding and
support for successful Adaptive Sports programs.
#15 Developing Client Goals and Objective Using TR Practice Models
Robin Kunstler, ReD, CTRS – CUNY Lehman College
Fran Stavola Daly, EdD, CTRS – Kean University
TR Practice Models have been used to serve as a framework for comprehensive TR program planning, but they
also can serve as the basis for selecting client goals and developing a logical progression of individual client
objectives that are relevant to the mission of the TR department and agency. Several models will be reviewed
and case studies will be presented to illustrate how the models can be applied to individual client program
planning. Participants will select an appropriate model and goals and develop their own behavioral objectives
(or measurable goals) for sample or actual clients.
Break – 3:30pm – 3:45pm
Concurrent Sessions – 3:45pm –4:45pm
#16 Using TR Principles for Retirement Planning (Your Client’s or Yours)
Joanne Auerbach, CTRS & Steve Victory, CTRS
Many pre-retirement planning sessions offered to the general public focus solely on financial readiness. As TRs
we recognize the need to plan for the increase in leisure time that retirement affords. This session will address
the need to meet needs in ALL domains, in order to have a happier, healthier rest-of-life. Participants will use
values clarification, as well as the assessment and planning process to better understand how to help others (or
themselves) plan for a successful retirement.
#17 Therapeutic Recreation Curriculum Accreditation: Continuing a Benchmark of
Excellence with COAPRT
Lynn Anderson, PhD, CTRS, CPRP – SUNY Cortland
Susan Wilson, PhD, CTRS – SUNY Cortland
Accreditation of academic programs signifies quality and ensures accountability. This session will present the
Guidelines for Learning Outcomes in Therapeutic Recreation and describe how therapeutic recreation curricula
are accredited under COAPRT (formerly COA), including a brief overview of the evolution to the current
outcomes-based criteria that measure therapeutic recreation education and applicable to curricula housed in a
variety of structures such as education, human services, liberal arts, health, and recreation-based homes.
Resources to assist therapeutic recreation programs seeking reaccreditation or initial accreditation by COAPRT
will be presented.
#18 The Use and Benefits of Essential Oils as a TR Intervention
Lori Higley – Young Living Essential Oils
This session will allow the Recreation Therapist the opportunity to discuss the therapeutic benefits and qualities
of 10 of Young Living’s Everyday Oils and their uses. An explanation of what an essential oil is, how to apply
them, and how they can be incorporated in your recreation therapy program will be covered. Contraindications
and types of settings will also be discussed.
#19 Unconventional Games for the Unconventional Client
Lorrie Prescott, CTRS – Island Nursing and Rehab Center
Kate Drader, CTRS – Greater Binghamton Health Center
Are you like most RT’s and stick to conventional games with your clients, yet would never do them at home
with your friends and family? Chances are your 21st century client would rather play the other games too. It’s
time to merge your worlds. Participants will get first hand experience with popular party games including
Pong, Flip Cup, and Minute to Win It and dissect their therapeutic value.
#20 560 Hours! Too Much! Not Enough! Creating a Quality Internship for TR Students
Robin Kunstler, ReD, CTRS – CUNY Lehman College
Fran Stavola Daly, EdD, CTRS – Kean University
Supervising a TR student intern for 560 hours is both one of the most rewarding and most challenging
experiences for a professional. Realistic expectations on both sides are important for success. Structuring a
quality internship, designing appropriate learning experiences, and utilizing clinical supervision strategies will
be discussed.
NYSTRA Awards Banquet & Membership Meeting – 6:30pm – Come dressed to
impress and support your fellow NYSTRA award winners!
Monday, April 7, 2014
Concurrent Sessions – 9:00am–10:30am
#21 At the Crossroads…..Moving TR Forward
Norma Stumbo, CTRS – ATRA President
TR is at the crossroads of becoming excellent…..or not. Every single professional and student needs to make a
commitment to improve the profession if we are to succeed and thrive in the coming decades. If not now, then
when? If not you, then who?
#22 Adaptive Kayaking, Archery, and Cycling Programs
Susan Pisano, MS, CTRS – VA Medical Center Northport
Patrick Campbell – VA Medical Center Northport
This session will give a brief overview of each sport, benefits in the different domains, basic equipment, and
support needed for a successful TR program. There will be discussion on how to obtain community resources
as well as how to spark interest and get programs started. This session will also cover the guidelines for
participation in these programs as well as successful strategies to implement these adaptive sports.
#23 Current Changes in New York State Mental Health Care: How Does Therapeutic
Recreation Adapt?
Alison Fredlake, CTRS – Sagamore Intensive Day Treatment Program
Beverly-Jane Vasquez-Aniano, CTRS – Sagamore Children’s Psychiatric Center
Recently the Office of Mental Health implemented a plan to increase community reintegration programs by
opening “Centers of Excellence.” This plan would decrease inpatient services causing a shift in TR
programming. TR will now focus on leisure education and counseling. Programming goals will be set based on
modalities such as: assertiveness training, social skills, and stress management for efficient community
reintegration. This session will educate Recreation Therapists about OMH’s consolidation plan. This session
will also detail how to implement a short-term outpatient discharge and transition plan.
#24 Utilizing Humor in a Clinical Setting
Ray Archer, MA, CTRS – Stony Brook University Hospital
During this session, participants will learn how to create a humor group for their facility, where the focus is
improving the quality of life of the people we serve. Participants will identify the benefits of humor and
laughter for patients, specifically, but not limited to behavioral health. Participants will focus on the effects of
laughter on the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of the human experience. Also included will be
some dos and don’ts when using humor as a tool to help build character and self esteem
#25 Introduction to Connection Centers: An Engagement Tool for Residents with
Dementia Facilitated by Direct Care Staff
Janette Leonidas, CTRS, CDP – St Peter’s Nursing and Rehab Center
Debi Buzanowski – Eddy’s Alzheimer’s Service
CTRSs will learn what a connection center is and its therapeutic value for residents. TR Specialists will learn
how to begin a program of connection centers for minimal cost, how to train and involve floor staff and direct
caregivers in the use of the centers, and how to maintain the program and ensure its success and benefit for the
residents involved.
Break – 10:30am – 10:45am
All Conference Session – 10:45am –12:15pm
#26 NYS RT Licensure: It’s a Matter of Necessity
Debbie Robinson, MS, CTRS/L – New Hampshire Hospital
Bob Riley, PhD, CTRS – NCTRC
Vinnie Bonadies, MS, CTRS – Beth Abraham Health Services
This session will reinforce the position that licensure is a critical professional issue and a necessary step to
promote the growth and recognition of the profession. Information will be shared about NY’s progress toward
licensure, the Joint Task Force on RT Licensure, and how licensure affects CTRS’s in licensed states
Lunch on Your Own – 12:15pm –1:30pm
Concurrent Sessions – 1:30pm –3:00pm
#27 Refresh Your Mind, Body, and TR Skills with Yoga
(Double Session – Must attend Both #27 & #32 for CEU Credit – Limit 25 Attendees)
Anne Pelisson, MS, CTRS, RYT
Isabel Tiffen, MS, CTRS, RYT
How can we as Recreation Therapists become more aware and focused in today’s constantly changing world?
What skills can we add to keep ourselves current as therapists? This is a double session, experiential workshop
during which we will explore the use of yoga as a valuable and easily accessible tool to improve ourselves and
our clients. Topics covered include the history and philosophy of yoga from ancient times to today, use of yoga
to achieve TR goals, benefits of yoga to the mind and body, class setting and format, traditional yoga poses, and
adaptation for populations served, safety concerns/contraindications and the use of yoga as a marketing tool.
#28 Social Awareness Success Kit: Strategies to Utilize While Participating in
Recreational and Social Activities for Individuals with TBI
Lois McElravy – Lessons from Lois
To understand the impact that external stressors and the effort in managing social behaviors causes many TBI
survivors to quit going places and isolating themselves. This session will also go into how a person with a TBI
views social settings and the struggles that they must cope with while participating in social/recreational
activities. This session will provide attendees with a success kit or templates they can use to help clients with
TBI’s maintain appropriate social skills during social activities
#29 Ethics in Therapeutic Recreation: What Guides us to be Better TR Practitioners
Vinnie Bonadies, MS, CTRS – Beth Abraham Health Services
It is no wonder that the discussion of ethics and the integration of ethics in therapeutic recreation practice is
such a perplexing issue. There are many factors in our practice that influence one’s ethics and our
understanding of how we ought to behave in various situations where there is no clear right or wrong answer.
This session will provide an overview of ethics in healthcare, and ATRA’s code of ethics. Various scenarios of
TR ethical dilemmas will be presented
#30 Validation of the TR Intern Evaluation Instrument Based on COAPRT TR Learning
Outcomes
Lynn Anderson, PhD, CTRS, CPRP – SUNY Cortland
Susan Wilson, PhD, CTRS – SUNY Cortland
The Council on Accreditation of Parks, Tourism, and Related Professions (COAPRT) has been the benchmark
of excellence in accreditation of therapeutic recreation curricula for over 35 years. COAPRT’s recent
development of learning outcomes as a way to measure educational quality, and in particular therapeutic
recreation guidelines, is an indicator of COAPRT’s leadership in accreditation into the 21st century.
Measurement of learning outcomes makes it imperative for educators and practitioners to work together to
develop methods of documenting what students learn during the internship semester. In this session, we will
gather input from internship supervisors and other practitioners on the internship evaluation instrument being
developed at SUNY Cortland, a COAPRT accredited program.
#31 Wellness in TR – Being W.O.W! (Warriors of Wellness)
Robin Gallagher, CTRS – The Highlands at Pittsford
This session will discuss the components of wellness and how they relate to TR. How as TR professionals we
need to be on top of future trends focusing on Health & Wellness to impact health promotion and disease
prevention. The session will focus on easy ways to facilitate wellness programs like laughing club, fitness, and
mind/body classes. Teaching our participants/residents to be Warriors of Wellness!
Break – 3:00pm – 3:15pm
Concurrent Sessions – 3:15pm –4:45pm
#32 Refresh Your Mind, Body, and TR Skills with Yoga
(Double Session – Must attend Both #27 & #32 for CEU Credit – Limit 25 Attendees)
Anne Pelisson, MS, CTRS, RYT
Isabel Tiffen, MS, CTRS, RYT
How can we as Recreation Therapists become more aware and focused in today’s constantly changing world?
What skills can we add to keep ourselves current as therapists? This is a double session, experiential workshop
during which we will explore the use of yoga as a valuable and easily accessible tool to improve ourselves and
our clients. Topics covered include the history and philosophy of yoga from ancient times to today, use of yoga
to achieve TR goals, benefits of yoga to the mind and body, class setting and format, traditional yoga poses, and
adaptation for populations served, safety concerns/contraindications and the use of yoga as a marketing tool
#33 Recreational Therapy’s Role in Bereavement Support
Debbie Robinson, MS, CTRS/L – New Hampshire Hospital
Every one of us will lose someone we love and struggle in our grief. Understanding grief and how to support
those who have experienced loss is an important part of our work as well as our humanity
#34 Essential Transfer Skills for a CTRS
(Limit 20 Attendees – Being offered Twice at Conference)
Eileen Andreassi, MA, CTRS – Helen Hayes Hospital
This hands-on session will teach participants how to safely transfer a patient/participant from one surface to
another insuring the safety of both the consumer and the staff member. This is a vital skill for a CTRS in order
to progress our consumers on the TR continuum in multiple settings. The session will also include a review of
the FIM levels and how they relate to TR activities across different diagnoses.
You will be learning proper body mechanics and not performing heavy lifts. However to insure safety,
participants must be in good physical condition with no lifting restrictions or chronic medical conditions
limiting full use of available upper and lower extremities. You will be practicing hands-on, up close and
personal techniques with a partner you may not know – please note you will know them much better after the
session!
#35 Managed Medicaid Growth and the Role of the TR in a Managed Medicaid Geriatric
Day Program
Leslie Hoot, MPA, CTRS – CenterLight Healthcare
This session will describe current Managed Medicaid growth in the healthcare environment to include topics
such as mandatory enrollment, the closure of fee for service programs and trends in this process. This
information will be related to the actual TR process within a rapidly growing geriatric Managed Medicaid Day
Health Center setting. The role of the TR profession with the interdisciplinary setting of this environment,
including the value of TR the managed care emphasis of treating the whole patient under one centralized
provide of care will be highlighted.
#36 It Can Work Together! – Recreation Therapy (RT) and Dialectical Behavioral
Therapy (DBT)
(Double Session – Must Attend Both #36 & #38 for CEU Credit)
Kristin Russell, CTRS – Hutchings Psychiatric Center
This session will explain what the evidence based practice of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is and how
it relates to Recreation Therapy Programming. Included will be the 4 core skill training areas and information
about how the skill areas can be used to target different populations. Recreation Therapists will be encouraged
to participate in activities that can be utilized with different populations to teach DBT skills. The session will
also discuss how DBT can help you manage your stress and how to share it with your clients
Team Orienteering Event –5:30pm
Saratoga State Park (more info. will be located at registration table)
Hospitality Night –7:30pm – 9:30pm
Hat Contest, Photo Booth, Raffle Baskets, 50/50 Raffle, Appetizers, Cash Bar, &
other Fun & Games!
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Concurrent Sessions – 8:30am –10:00am
#37 Leisure Education: Decoding the Value of Sober Leisure with Your Patients
Susan Colletti, CTRS, CDP – Stratton VA Medical Center
This session will afford the new practitioner an opportunity to explore the value of leisure education in a
substance abuse treatment program. The necessity and benefits of leisure education in this setting will be
discussed, along with touching on the different types of leisure (sober leisure vs. leisure while under the
influence of drugs/alcohol). Participants will have the opportunity to engage in an interactive leisure education
session, as well as evaluating and analyzing situations that might occur.
#38 It Can Work Together! – Recreation Therapy (RT) and Dialectical Behavioral
Therapy (DBT)
(Double Session – Must Attend Both #36 & #38 for CEU Credit)
Kristin Russell, CTRS – Hutchings Psychiatric Center
This session will explain what the evidence based practice of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is and how
it relates to Recreation Therapy Programming. Included will be the 4 core skill training areas and information
about how the skill areas can be used to target different populations. Recreation Therapists will be encouraged
to participate in activities that can be utilized with different populations to teach DBT skills. The session will
also discuss how DBT can help you manage your stress and how to share it with your clients
#39 Essential Transfer Skills for a CTRS
(Limit 20 Attendees – Being offered Twice at Conference)
Eileen Andreassi, MA, CTRS – Helen Hayes Hospital
This hands-on session will teach participants how to safely transfer a patient/participant from one surface to
another insuring the safety of both the consumer and the staff member. This is a vital skill for a CTRS in order
to progress our consumers on the TR continuum in multiple settings. The session will also include a review of
the FIM levels and how they relate to TR activities across different diagnoses.
You will be learning proper body mechanics and not performing heavy lifts. However to insure safety,
participants must be in good physical condition with no lifting restrictions or chronic medical conditions
limiting full use of available upper and lower extremities. You will be practicing hands-on, up close and
personal techniques with a partner you may not know – please note you will know them much better after the
session!
#40 Humor Helps and Laughter Heals Through Therapeutic Interventions
Lois McElravy – Lessons from Lois
Humor and laughter play a vital role in recovery to help you hang on when life seems unfair, and move on by
letting go of hurt, sadness, grief of loss. You can explore new possibilities and go on living your life to fullest.
This session will explore what humor is and how it works by discussing humor theories, histories &
personalities. Participants will also discuss the benefits of therapeutic laughter along with taking part in some
laughter exercises and learning how to implement them with your patients/clients. Lastly, this session will also
include 7 guidelines to introduce humor in sensitive situations.
Break – 10:00am – 10:15am
Concurrent Sessions –10:15am –11:15am
#41 Animal Assisted Activities and Animal Assisted Therapy: Structuring Visits for
Recreation Therapy Programs
Kristin Russell, CTRS – Hutchings Psychiatric Center
In this session we will discuss what animal assisted therapy and activities are and how to determine whether or
not it is an appropriate modality to bring into your RT program. We will explore how this relates to recreation
therapy programming offered within your facility, and the types of outcomes you may work toward by utilizing
this modality with different populations. We will also discuss how to write an animal assisted therapy/activities
policy for your facility and recreation therapy program.
#42 Camp Waban: Overnight Camping Trip with Long Term Care Residents
Jessica Leclerc, CTRS – St Andre Health Care
One of the greatest joys of life in New England is going on vacation by the lake, and why should that end once
you are a resident in a Long Term Care Facility? Learn how to provide this unique experience to your
residents. We will teach you all the steps necessary to plan and execute such a program. We will provide you
with the tools necessary to plan any length trip you can incorporate into your facility form a weeklong
adventure to day trips. Each participant will leave with the understanding on how an interdisciplinary approach
to this kind of outing can be accomplished and why it is so important for your residents. Come learn that
moving into a Long Term Care Facility does not mean you cannot go on vacation.
#43 Therapeutic Recreation in Child Welfare: Finding our Place and Purpose
Austin Oswald, CTRS – Brock University, ON
This session will focus explicitly on the role of therapeutic recreation in child welfare out-of-home services, in
particular residential care. Based on the presenter’s own research and a synthesis of the current and relevant
literature, this session will place TR at the heart of the positive youth development movement and address
issues pertaining to planning for and implementing interventions. Topics for discussion will focus on
foundational knowledge and TR practice, highlighting theoretical underpinnings of adolescent development, the
impact of institutionalization, and the role of TR in promoting positive youth development
#44 Inclusion in the Cyber Age
Lynn Anderson, PhD, CTRS, CPRP – SUNY Cortland
The Inclusive Recreation Resource Center was founded in 2007. It provides valuable training and resources to
promote inclusion in recreation for people of all abilities. In the next two years, the Center’s training and
services will become more available to all through the use of technology and the internet. Learn about the next
exciting phase in the Center’s work, and how you can be involved. Learn how you can become a Certified
Inclusivity Assessor through Inclusion U Online, a totally online training that teaches you to use the Inclusivity
Assessment Tool.
Break – 11:15am – 11:30am
Endnote – 11:30 –1:00pm (Lunch Included)
#45 Therapeutic Recreation – We Help Beat the Odds by Using Innovative Techniques
Loretta Sinnott, CTRS/SBH – Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center – Pinefield Children & Youth
During this session we will explore innovative techniques that we as recreation therapists use in our
professional and personal life including positive psychology, resiliency, empathy, and optimism by trying to
achieve authentic happiness. This session will help you flourish in all areas of your life.
~ Conference Information ~
CEU Information: Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are pending acceptance through the
American Therapeutic Recreation Association. Please be sure to have your NCTRC ID# with
you as it is needed on the CEU form. Also, PLEASE ensure your CEU form is signed and
returned to the registration desk prior to leaving conference. This is VERY IMPORTANT as all
CEU forms are to be submitted to ATRA together.
Credit Cards: NYSTRA is pleased to announce that we are accepting credit cards (Visa or
Mastercard) for payment. You can also register online using your credit card or Paypal.
NYSTRA Cancellation Policy: Cancellation refund requests must be in writing. Cancellations
postmarked on or before 14 days prior to conference will be assessed a $20 processing fee.
Cancellations received after 14 days, but prior to the start of the conference will be assessed a
25% processing fee. NO refunds for cancellations received after the conference begins or for
"No Shows".
Student Rate: Proof of full-time student status must accompany your registration form and
payment. A transcript or letter indicating full-time student status on college or university
letterhead signed by an advisor or the registrar is acceptable.
Conference Dress Code: Business Casual. Please bring a sweater or light jacket as session
room temperatures may vary.
Proof of Attendance: If you are in need of proof at attendance, this is only available at the
registration desk when you turn in your CEU form and conference evaluation prior to leaving
conference.
This year’s conference is BYOB…. Bring Your Own Bag!
Why not bring your favorite NYSTRA bag from past conferences?! Look for a new and
exciting giveaway when you check in at the registration table!
Please remember: All sessions and hospitality events are subject to change, rescheduling, or
cancellation. Please listen for announcements during general sessions as well as look for
information posted by the conference registration desk.
NYSTRA Merchandise will be available for purchase during the conference as well as 50/50
Raffle tickets. Show your support of NYSTRA and take advantage of special member pricing
on merchandise!
Registration Desk: Open Saturday, Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday mornings at 8:00am.
Registration will be set up in a new area this year! Go past The Win, Place, & Show rooms and
you will see that NYSTRA will have its own little area! Prior to leaving conference, please turn
in your CEU and Conference Evaluation Forms here. Should you have any questions during the
conference, stop by the desk to see Robin & Steve who can direct you accordingly.
Photographs: Photographs will be taken throughout the conference and may be posted on the
NYSTRA Facebook page. Please email us at nystra2014@gmail.com to let us know if you
would like to refrain from having your picture taken.
Returned Checks: A penalty of $25.00 will be charged for each returned check.
Registration & Payment:
This year NYSTRA is offering two different ways to
submit registration & payment.
1. If you would like to pay online with a credit card or with PayPal please hold Control and
click the link below.
http://www.nystra.org/conference-registration-form.htm
2. If you would like to pay with check or purchase order, or use credit card and send through
the mail, print out the registration form in this packet and mail registration form and payment to
the address provided.
Meals: Meals are on your own, except for the Awards Banquet/Membership meeting & the
Endnote which are included in your conference registration. The Holiday Inn has an onsite
restaurant, and there are many restaurants within walking distance to the hotel.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
Name _________________________________________________________
Name for badge________________________________________________
NYSTRA member ____ yes ____ no
Organization __________________________________________________
Title _________________________________________________________
Mailing Address__________________________________________________________
City ___________________________________ State _____________Zip____________
Phone ________________________Fax ___________________
E-mail ____________________________________
Certification: ______ CTRS
Other _______________________________________
CEU’s needed _______Yes _____No ATRA or NCTRC # _______________________
Presenting at this years conference ______Yes ______No
***Become a Member Today and Pay Member Rates for the Conference***
***See Membership application ***
FULL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
___Member
___Non-Member
___Student Member
___Student Non-Member
___Speaker (1 session)
___Speakers (2 or more)
Before 3/8
$190
$250
$60
$120
$95
$50
DAILY REGISTRATION
After 3/8
Before 3/8 After 3/8
$220
___Member
$110
$125
$280
___Non-Member
$125
$140
$75
___Student Member
$ 40
$ 55
$150
___Student Non-Member
$ 60
$ 75
$110
$65
Please specify day: ___ Sunday ___ Monday ___ Tuesday
Student Rate: Proof of full time student status must accompany registration form and payment
Pre-Conference Institutes Saturday 4/5/2014
Full Day Institute (9am – 4pm)
# 1 _____Evidence-Based Practice in Therapeutic Recreation – The Why and How - $60
Half Day Institutes - #2 & #3 are $35 each or $60 for both of them
#2 _____Therapeutic Riding/Driving & Hippotherapy – “Horses Helping People” – 9am – 1pm
(This Half Day Institute is off site)
#3 _____The Adaptive Use Musical Instrument (AUMI): Music Technology Across Abilities – 2pm –
5pm
#4 _____NCTRC Exam Study Session - $50 – 1pm – 5pm
CEUs: _______Please add $10.00 for CEU’s
Total payment including Registration, CEUs, and Institute(s) $______________
Please note: Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are pending acceptance through the
American Therapeutic Recreation Association
~ NYSTRA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION ~
(PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT CLEARLY)
Name: ______________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ____________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
City: __________________________________________State: ________ Zip:___________
Home Phone: (
Fax: (
) ________________________ Work Phone: (
)__________________
) ___________ E-Mail:_______________________________________________
Employer/School: ____________________________________________________________
Population: _________________________________________________________________
Certification(s):
CTRS ___
Other: ____________________
Membership Fees:
Professional
Associate
Student
Retired
Retired Lifetime
Organizational
1 year
$55.00
$50.00
$15.00
$25.00
$120.00
$125.00
2 years
$100.00
$90.00
$30.00
$40.00
$240.00
How/where did you learn about NYSTRA? ___________________________________
FOR NYSTRA USE ONLY
DJ ____________ DR ____________ DE ___________
NYSTRA Conference Payment Form
Payment including Registration, CEUs, and Institute(s)
$______________
Payment for Membership
$______________
Total Payment
$______________
For Payment Via Credit Card
Credit Card: ______Visa
______MasterCard
Card Number: ______________________________ Exp. Date: ___/___
Security Code: ______
I authorize NYSTRA to charge my card for a total of $_____________.
Signature: _____________________________________________________
For Payment Via Check or Purchase Order
Please make checks and PO’s payable to:
NYSTRA
Mail payment, registration form, payment form,
and membership application (if applicable) to:
Jennifer Battle
70 Carriage Road
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Jennifer.Battle@sphp.com if you have any questions
~HOTEL INFORMATION AND AMENITIES~
Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY
All reservations need to be made by March 22, 2014 in order to ensure you receive the
conference rate. If reserving online use the group code T14 and it will automatically
give you the NYSTRA rate of $122 per night, use this link NYS Therapeutic Recreation
All of the guestrooms have been recently updated. Standard features include rooms with a king size bed or two
double beds, and perks like free high-speed Internet access, refrigerators and microwaves to a large work desk,
table and chair. You'll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. Luxury class accommodations include all
of the above plus upscale décor and linens, enlarged baths, two phone lines, in-room safe and VCRs. Choose
from king or two queen size beds or king suites with kitchenettes.
FEATURES
Bookmakers Restaurant and Lounge
Open 7 days a week 6:30am-10:00pm
Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner—Room Service Available
Pools
Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools
Open daily 7:00am-10:00pm
Exercise Room (updated in 2012)
24 hour exercise room with treadmills, Stairmaster, bike and free weights
Coin Laundry
Located on first floor
Services
24 hour guest fax
Monday through Friday same day dry cleaning
Business Center
Free on site parking
Complimentary Local Area Shuttle – Radius 5 miles (this includes from the Saratoga Amtrak Station)
Just a short stroll to Congress Park, the National Museums of Racing and Dance, downtown Saratoga
Springs, and the Thoroughbred Racetrack.
~Directions~
Albany - Follow signs for I-87 North towards Montreal for 25 miles, Take Exit 13N via ramp to US-9 and Bear
right on US-9 heading North for 3.5 miles. Holiday Inn is on the Right.
Buffalo/Rochester – I-90 East to Exit 28 (Fultonville/Fonda) and take Rt. 30A North for 6 miles. Turn right on
Rt. 29 heading east for 31 miles. Turn right on US-9 and head south for 3 blocks. Holiday Inn is on the Left.
Massachusetts/Connecticut – I-90 East to Albany. Follow signs for I-87 North towards Montreal. Continue on
I-87 North for 25 miles. Take Exit 13N via ramp to US-9 and Bear right on US-9 and go North for 3.5 miles.
Holiday Inn is on the Right.
Montreal – I-87 South to Exit 15 and Rt. 50. Take Rt. 50 Southwest for 2.5 Miles. Holiday Inn is on the Left.
New York City - I-87 North for 136 miles, Exit I-87 via ramp at sign reading "Exit 24 I-87 N / I-90 E to
Albany / Montreal". Follow signs for I-87 North
towards Montreal for 25 miles. Take Exit 13N to US-9 heading North for 3.5 miles. Holiday Inn is on the Right
Hospitality Events
Sunday, April 6, 2014
7:15am
Zumba with Cathy – location TBD – come dressed to move!
11:00am –3:00pm
Vendor and Resource Fair – visit the different tables or vendors and
resources and get some great ideas to bring back to work with you
12:30pm –1:30pm
“Take a Student to Lunch” – a great, relaxed way for students and
professionals to be able to network. If you have signed up, meet your
student/professional at the registration table at 12:30pm
6:30pm
NYSTRA Awards Banquet and
Membership Meeting – It may be Sunday, but please dress like its
Saturday Night and come support the award nominees.
Please… no jeans!
Monday, April 7, 2014
7:00am –8:00am
Run/Walk with Leslie (Run 30 secs., Walk 30 secs.) Meet in the Lobby
5:30pm –6:30pm
Team Orienteering Event
Saratoga State Park (more info. available at registration table)
7:30pm –9:30pm
Sticking with the Race Track theme we will be having a “Hat
Contest” – Design your best TR Hat and showcase it at our
hospitality night (photo booth, games, appetizers, cash bar, basket
raffles, etc)
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
11:30am –1:00pm
Endnote Address – Lunch Included!
*Hospitality events are included in the conference registration
unless otherwise noted*
Take a Student to Lunch
We are trying something new at the NYSTRA conference this year.
We are looking for interested TR professionals to volunteer to take a TR student to
lunch during the NYSTRA conference. This will give students a 1:1 opportunity to
network with a TR professional in a more relaxed environment.
It will give them a chance to ask some great questions, get a possible lead on an
internship, or simply gain another contact in the field of Therapeutic Recreation.
When: Sunday, April 6, 2014
Time: 12:30 – 1:30pm
Where: Meet your TR student/TR professional at the registration table at 12:30pm
(There are lots of local places to go for lunch that are within walking distance.
Please ask someone at registration if you need some suggestions)
TR Professionals RSVP to Daniele Fish by March 28, 2014 at
dfish@forthudson.com
TR Students RSVP to Jennifer Battle by March 28, 2014 at
Jennifer.Battle@sphp.com
Without everyone’s participation this event will not be possible!