2025 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions
October 18–20, 2025 | San Antonio, TX
The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2025 ATRA Annual Conference in San Antonio, TX. All sessions, times, and presenter information have been confirmed, though final adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances onsite.
For a visual Calendar view, please visit: Schedule at a Glance
For information on our Bonus Day at Morgan's Sports on Friday October 17th, please visit: ATRA San Antonio Bonus Day: Morgan's Sports
Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC approval is currently pending. Please check back for updates prior to the conference.
Note: Poster presentations may be eligible for CEUs in 2025. Final determinations will be reflected once CEU approvals are finalized.
For questions related to specialty certification areas, please refer to the PDF version of the program for designation icons and CEU-eligible sessions.
Code of Conduct:
All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and guests are expected to uphold the ATRA Conference Code of Conduct.
To review the Code, view it here.
Note on Non-ATRA Activities:
Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA San Antonio program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.
D&D – Developing and Discovering Prosocial Skills
Session Description
This session will introduce role playing games (RPGs) as a therapeutic tool in a behavioral health setting. Specifically diving into the world of Dungeons and Dragons this approach is taking a unique therapeutic angle across multiple editions and platforms. Participants engage in collaborative storytelling and role-playing to address issues such as social skills, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. Through guided gameplay, individuals will develop coping strategies, enhance communication, and explore personal growth in a supportive and creative environment. D&D offers a unique opportunity to build resilience, improve problem-solving abilities, and foster a sense of belonging, all while having fun in an imaginative, low-stress setting.
Learning Outcomes
1. Be able to identify and define how RPG games can translate to recreational therapy treatment using the four frames of reference.
2. Provide two examples of recreational therapy concepts in a DnD session.
3. Describe the roles needed within the RPG space to complete both a standard and therapeutic session.
Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply
Behavioral Health
Target Audience
New Graduates/New Professionals
Mid-Career Professionals
Seasoned Professionals
Primary Presenter
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5b3d5c6179fbf41a84c7c3a1e12d71ed.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Stephanie Lynn Salters, Michigan Department of Health & Human Service")
Stephanie Lynn Salters, Michigan Department of Health & Human Service
Biographical Information
Stephanie Salters is a dedicated and skilled therapeutic recreation professional with a strong background in behavioral health. She holds a Master of Science in Recreation Administration from the University of Toledo and is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), having earned her certification from Central Michigan University. Over the years, Stephanie has gained extensive experience working with a diverse range of clients, including Medicaid recipients in various healthcare settings.
Her career journey has seen her provide therapeutic services in acute care settings, where she worked to support individuals coping with serious physical health issues. Most recently, Stephanie has been employed at a psychiatric hospital, where she specializes in supporting individuals with mental health challenges through recreational therapy. She brings a deep understanding of the therapeutic power of recreation and play, as well as a commitment to helping individuals improve their quality of life, build coping skills, and foster emotional well-being.
Stephanie is passionate about the integration of therapeutic recreation into behavioral health and works to continuously expand her knowledge and expertise in the field. She is dedicated to promoting holistic, person-centered care and believes in the transformative role recreation can play in an individual’s healing process. Through her work, Stephanie strives to create inclusive and supportive environments that encourage growth, empowerment, and recovery for all individuals.
Co-Presenter/panelists
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c4033cbef97d3839fe4929fc57d56ede.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Benjamin Coleman , Michigan Department of Health and Human Services")
Benjamin Coleman , Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Biographical Information
Benjamin is a passionate and experienced therapeutic recreation specialist with a focus on neurorehabilitation and behavioral health. He holds a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification from Grand Valley University and has developed a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic benefits of recreation across a variety of settings.
Throughout his career, Benjamin has worked with individuals in neurorehabilitation, where he designed and facilitated recreational programs to support patients recovering from neurological injuries and conditions. His work has emphasized the importance of physical, cognitive, and emotional healing through carefully structured activities that promote independence and enhance quality of life.
Most recently, Benjamin has worked in a psychiatric hospital setting, where he provides therapeutic recreation services to individuals dealing with mental health challenges. In this environment, he tailors programs to improve emotional regulation, social skills, and overall well-being, while fostering an atmosphere of trust and growth. His approach to therapeutic recreation is rooted in person-centered care, ensuring that each individual’s needs, preferences, and goals are prioritized.
Benjamin is dedicated to advancing the field of therapeutic recreation by continually expanding his knowledge and applying innovative techniques to improve the lives of his clients. He is committed to empowering individuals through recreation and play, helping them to achieve meaningful recovery and greater overall health.