Welcome to the 2022 ATRA Virtual Conference!
The virtual conference is uniquely different from the face-to-face conference being held in Birmingham AL September 10 - 13, 2022. Attendees registered for the face-to-face conference also receive access to the virtual conference. Individuals interested in the virtual conference may register separately for just the virtual conference. To register, go to https://www.atra-online.com/page/ACON2022
Social Emotional Learning and the CTRS
Session Description/Research Abstract
Today’s Therapeutic Recreation Specialist plays an integral role in supporting mental health education in many different settings and contexts. An essential component to supporting mental health for those we serve includes instruction in social and emotional skills, or the provision of social and emotional learning (SEL). SEL focuses on the acquisition of skills to develop a healthy identity, manage emotions, establish and maintain relationships, make decisions and get and achieve goals (CASEL, Fundamentals of SEL. 2022). With an emphasis on experiential practice for participants, this presentation will focus on SEL core competencies, best practices for incorporating SEL into Therapeutic Recreation program design, and exploring the role that Therapeutic Recreation Specialists play in normalizing, advocating for, and modeling SEL skills day-to-day.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this session, participants will be able to:
1. Define social and emotional learning (SEL) and explore its impacts on those we serve
2. Describe 5 core SEL competencies as defined by CASEL
3. Understand the benefits of integration and practice of SEL
4. Describe how Recreational Therapists are well-positioned to advocate for and apply SEL as part of an interdisciplinary team
5. Practice and apply SEL strategies to increase personal social and emotional competence and resilience.
Population/Setting:
Child and Adolescent
Community
Schools
CEUs:
0.1
Primary Presenter
Amy Henson, TRAILS
Credentials
MBA, CTRS
Biographical Information
Amy Henson, MBA, CTRS currently serves as an SEL Specialist with TRAILS. The primary mission of TRAILS is to improve access to effective skills and strategies for wellness promotion, prevention, and management of mental health disorders of youth in schools. After spending nearly two decades working in Mental Health settings, Amy is a strong believer in the power of SEL in schools. In her current role, Amy works to host TRAILS SEL trainings as well as to develop, improve, and support the implementation of the TRAILS comprehensive SEL curriculum. In addition to this, Amy serves as an adjunct faculty member at Eastern Michigan University’s School of Health Sciences.
Head Shot
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