Recreational Therapy

Careers

Graduates of the Recreational Therapy program at ASU build careers that change lives and strengthen communities. They apply their expertise in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outdoor programs, and community organizations, using recreation as a powerful tool for healing, growth, and connection. Alumni empower individuals to rediscover play, support recovery, and foster inclusion, while also finding deep meaning and fulfillment in their own professional journeys.

Check out how our alumni put their degrees into action. Their stories showcase the lasting impact they have improving the quality of life for people of all abilities.

Lisa Perez

M.A., PCC, NBC-HWC

Year Graduated: 2005

Current Employment: Leadership & Well-Being Executive Coach, Vital Transformations, LLC

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Elena Messenger

MS, CPRP, CTRS

Year Graduated: 2006

Current Employment: Recreation Centers Program Manager, Marine Corps Community Services, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

My degree made it possible for me to change the lives of others for the better while absolutely changing and fulfilling my own, doing what I love.

Jess Amato

MA, CTRS

Year Graduated: 2007

Current Employment: Founder of Platform to Play

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I always knew I wanted to use play as a tool for connecting with children with disabilities; my expertise in Recreational Therapy & Community Development gave me the tools I need to help individuals and communities reach their highest potential through play.

Jenny Driessen

CTRS

Year Graduated: 2026

Current Employment: Recreational Therapist, Ability 360 and Group Fitness Instructor, Sagewood Senior Living

I am now qualified to work with a variety of populations using fun and unique modalities and evidence-based practices with proven results.

Lauren Grattop

CTRS

Year Graduated: 2022

Current Employment: Vintage Silver Center