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ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description
October 17–19, 2026
The Embassy Suites, Brea, California
2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions
October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA
The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. 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 On Demand Conference offerings, please visit: ATRA SoCal On Demand
Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending fr all sessions for CEUs.
Once the program is pre-approved; 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 SoCal 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.
Energize & Empower: Overcoming Burnout in Recreation Therapy
Session Description
Discover how to enhance your practice as a Recreation Therapist through our session, “Energize & Empower: Overcoming Burnout in Recreation Therapy.” Join us as we explore evidence-based coaching strategies that improve cognition and reduce fatigue, which are essential for maintaining well-being in therapeutic settings. Through interactive discussions and guided activities, participants will assess their current status, set actionable goals for improvement, and learn evidence-based stress-recovery techniques. Participants will gain personalized insights into daily habits that promote a balanced and energized approach to both professional and personal life. This session is designed to help Recreation Therapists reignite their passion for their work, enhance their overall well-being, and learn about how to thrive in the demanding field of Therapeutic Recreation.
Learning Outcomes
1. Identify at least 3 techniques to enhance mental and physical energy while working in a therapeutic setting. 2. Identify at least 2 strategies for maintaining clarity and focus in professional practice. 3. Develop a personalized plan incorporating at least 2 high performance habits in their daily routines to reduce burnout and increase resilience.
Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply
All
Target Audience
New Graduates/New Professionals
Educators/Researchers
Mid-Career Professionals
Seasoned Professionals
Primary Presenter
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0ea339b41afc0c2c003d76fba8c9759e.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Heather Griego, Wellness Recreation 360 Inc.")
Heather Griego, Wellness Recreation 360 Inc.
Biographical Information
Heather Griego, Recreation Therapist and founder of Wellness Recreation 360 Inc., is a seasoned life coach, speaker, and author specializing in burnout prevention, time management strategies, and building a resilient mindset. With over 15 years of experience in Recreation Therapy and leadership roles, Heather offers a unique blend of expertise in mental and behavioral health, animal-assisted therapy, and program development. Her passion for empowering others extends beyond professional realms, as she actively contributes to her community through volunteering and service initiatives.
Co-Presenter/Panelists
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ec990788517397acae37ef9ce9ebb44b.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Deborah Tysor, CTRS, Ph.D., Clemson University")
Deborah Tysor, CTRS, Ph.D., Clemson University
Credentials
PhD, CTRS
Biographical Information
Dr. Deborah Tysor is a recreation therapist, faculty member, and co-coordinator for the Therapeutic Recreation Department at Douglas College in British Columbia, Canada. Her research focuses on the social and psychology benefits of nature-based interventions for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder, people who are incarcerated, and other folks at high risk for social isolation. Deborah recently served on the board of directors for the American Therapeutic Recreation Association and was previously a co-leader of the veterans section. She completed her graduate education at the University of Utah and greatly enjoys the privilege of walking alongside recreation therapy students as they enter the profession.