TRAPS Recreational Therapy Branch ATRA Chapter

REC the Future Meeting Presentation

The REC The Future meeting was very informative, and we are excited to share the presentation with those who were unable to attend or would like to review the information. Please view the presentation below.

REC The Future Presentation

Upcoming Meeting and Events

Click here for a list of upcoming trainings or meetings.

TRAPS and ATRA Partnership

TRAPS has officially partnered with the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) to expand benefits for TRAPS members and strengthen the profession.

TRAPS and the Therapeutic Recreation Branch are now partnering with the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)! This milestone represents a new era of collaboration and opportunity for recreational therapists in Texas.

Here’s what this means for you:

  • Exclusive Discount: TRAPS members now receive a 20% discount on ATRA membership, giving you access to ATRA’s top-notch education and resources.
  • Support from ATRA: Benefit from ATRA’s leadership and resources as we grow together.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow recreational therapists across the state and nation to support our profession. 

Learn More about ATRA.

Click here to become a member of TRAPS.

Meet the RT Branch ATRA Chapter Leadership

If you have not declared a branch affiliation as a TRAPS member, do so now! Identifying a branch that meets your needs and interests as a member will allow you to have the inside scoop on important happenings related to your field or specialty.

Branch Chair – Dr. Shelby Sharpe

Shelby Sharpe is currently faculty at Texas State University teaching recreational therapy courses and coordinating internships for graduate and undergraduate RT students. She obtained her Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University, has her master’s in public administration from Northeastern University, and earned her bachelor’s in recreational therapy at Texas State. Shelby has been a recreational therapist for 12 year. Shelby is excited to share her knowledge and assist in facilitating growth within the profession.

Branch Chair-Elect – Shelby Carradine

Shelby Carradine is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with over 14 years of experience. For the past seven years, she has been a Recreation Coordinator with the City of Carrollton, where she specializes in creating adaptive programming for the community and leading inclusion initiatives across the city. She is passionate about providing recreational opportunities that empower individuals of all abilities to thrive.
 
Secretary – Vacant

At-Large 1 – Teagan Sailors

Teagan Sailors studied Therapeutic Recreation at BYU-Idaho and gained a passion for the field during her time as a student. Currently, Teagan works as a CTRS at Moody Neurorehabilitation Institute in Lubbock, Texas. When she is not working with patients she enjoys spending time outdoors, cooking, and spending time with her family.

 

At-Large 2 – Cozea Stephens

Cozea Stephens is a CTRS that has over 20 years of experience in programs for neurodiverse populations. He has coached 7 different Special Olympic sports and assisted with events for paralympians. Cozea has helped develop inclusion policies and is the President of the Disabilities and Accessibilities Employee Resource Group for the City of Dallas. He now serves as Supervisor for Bachman Therapeutic Recreation Center for Dallas Park and Recreation.

At-Large 3 – Monica Martinez

Monica Martinez is a CTRS and Recreation Program Coordinator with the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. A former Special Education teacher with a Master’s in Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University, Monica is a passionate advocate for the profession. She focuses on professional development and building strong networks within the TRAPS and ATRA communities. 

At-Large 4 – Elena Christopher

Elena Christopher, CTRS, CPRP, serves as a Recreation Programs Coordinator for Therapeutic Recreation Modification and Support Services with the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Elena has experience in inclusive summer camps, designing adaptive recreation programs, and leading groups in outdoor adventure activities. Her work focuses on expanding access to parks and recreation programs for people with disabilities through inclusive camps, adaptive programming, staff training, and community partnerships. Elena is passionate about equipping rec professionals with the tools to create welcoming, accessible environments where all participants can thrive. She enjoys sharing knowledge through conference presentations, professional writing, and mentoring emerging professionals in the field.