Julia Tanzler
Fort Wayne, IN (Relocating To Grand Rapids, MI)
Summary
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with seven years of experience delivering patient-centered recreational therapy services in acute healthcare settings. Demonstrated success across two major hospital systems, advancing into leadership positions of Skills Development Program Lead and Lead Activity Therapist. Skilled in developing and implementing evidence-based therapeutic recreation programs that enhance patient well-being, promote functional independence, and support interdisciplinary treatment goals. Recognized for fostering patient engagement through creative, strengths-based interventions that help individuals rediscover their abilities, build meaningful connections, and achieve positive therapeutic outcomes.
Overview
1
1
Certification
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Activity Therapist
Maple Heights Behavioral Health
Fort Wayne, IN
03.2024 - Current
- Promoted to Lead Activity Therapist (May 2024) in recognition of experience, leadership, and clinical contributions.
- Assists with department operations by coordinating supply ordering, overseeing the adolescent unit’s daily reward program, training and mentoring new staff, maintaining a consistent therapeutic group schedule, and supporting the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered recreational therapy services.
- Develops and implements evidence-based therapeutic activities within the behavioral health setting for diverse patient populations, including adolescents, young adults, and older adults.
- Monitors patient progress towards their treatment goals through administration of assessments, participation in treatment team meetings, implementation of group and one-to-one interventions, and input of daily progress notes into WellSky EMR system.
Skills Development Program Lead
Valle Vista Health Systems
Greenwood, IN
05.2019 - 03.2024
- Promoted to Skills Development Program Lead (February 2022) for both inpatient and outpatient recreation therapy services. Mentored and trained new staff, contributed to clinical curriculum development, and supported quality improvement initiatives.
- Conducted patient satisfaction assessments, maintained accurate program data, and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure program effectiveness and positive patient outcomes.
- Supervised an Indiana University Therapeutic Recreation Graduate Student during their 600-hour (15-week) on-site internship. Adhered to internship guidelines set by NCTRC and the university. Provided daily oversight, resources, training, and clinical support.
- Adhered and promoted recreation therapy standards of practice by administering assessments, planning and implementing therapeutic activities, and documenting patients’ progress towards their treatment goals.
- Educated patients on the importance of leisure and recreation through a variety of intervention modalities, including creative arts, games, movement, guided discussion, and skill-building activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy
Indiana University, Bloomington
Bloomington, IN05-2019
Skills
- Interdisciplinary team collaboration
- Clinical documentation
- Evidence-based practices
- Patient advocacy and satisfaction
- Program development and adherence
- Individualized treatment planning
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Positive reinforcement strategies
Certification
- CTRS - Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
- BLS- Basic Life Support
- HWC- Handle With Care (Verbal/physical de-escalation model)
Timeline
Lead Activity Therapist
Maple Heights Behavioral Health
03.2024 - Current
Skills Development Program Lead
Valle Vista Health Systems
05.2019 - 03.2024
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy
Indiana University, Bloomington
Certifications
- CTRS - National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC)® · Issued May 2019 · Expires May 2027 · Credential ID: 81816
- BLS - Basic Life Support
- HWC - Handle With Care (Verbal/physical de-escalation model)