Sarah (Mattie) Kiser
Wesley Chapel
Summary
Compassionate recreational therapist with background in designing and implementing therapeutic programs tailored to meet diverse client needs. Skilled in facilitating activities that promote physical, social, and emotional well-being, enhancing quality of life for individuals. Demonstrated ability to assess patient needs, plan and adapt treatments effectively, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased satisfaction. Strong communicator with proven track record of collaborating with healthcare teams to deliver comprehensive care.
Overview
1
1
Certification
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Recreation Therapist
Universal Health Services Inc.
Lexington
07.2022 - 07.2025
- Delivered therapeutic recreation in a behavioral health setting to patients of all ages, improving emotional well-being and social functioning
- Facilitated structured group sessions that promoted emotional expression and social connections through leisure education, art, and movement-based therapies
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized treatment plans, ensuring comprehensive patient-centered care
- Monitored patient engagement and documented clinical observations, enhancing adherence to treatment plans
- Provided vigilant lifeguard supervision, ensuring safety and emergency preparedness in high-risk environments
- Demonstrated strong crisis response skills through CPR, first aid, and water rescue interventions
Recreational Therapy Intern
Vantage Point Behavioral Health
Fayetteville
01.2022 - 05.2022
- Led group and individual sessions focused on coping skills, emotional regulation, social interaction, and stress reduction
- Led group and individual sessions to enhance coping skills, emotional regulation, social interaction, and stress reduction among patients
- Applied evidence-based interventions, including art, music, and leisure education, to advance mental health treatment goals
- Observed and documented patient behaviors, participation, and progress, reporting findings to the interdisciplinary team
- Adapted activities to meet diverse cognitive, developmental, and psychiatric needs across the lifespan
- Established a safe, structured, and supportive environment that fostered patient engagement and facilitated recovery
Recreational Therapy Intern
Willow Crest Behavioral Health
Miami
05.2021 - 07.2021
- Delivered therapeutic recreation services to adolescent patients with mental health diagnoses, enhancing emotional well-being and social functioning
- Facilitated structured group therapy sessions enhancing coping strategies, communication skills, and leisure skill development among participants
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create and support individualized treatment plans for improved patient outcomes
- Monitored patient responses and maintained accurate clinical documentation in compliance with facility standards
- Implemented inclusive, trauma-informed care approaches to promote safety and engagement in therapeutic activities
Caregiver
Angie Fontenot
Plano
06.2019 - 01.2020
- Provided daily care and supervision for two adults with special needs, ensuring safety, comfort, and well-being
- Assisted with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding
- Implemented individualized care plans to promote independence, routine, and quality of life
- Assisted with mobility, transfers, and use of adaptive equipment as needed
- Encouraged social interaction and participation in recreational and community activities
- Maintained a clean, organized, and supportive home environment
Education
Bachelor's degree - Therapeutic Recreation
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OKSkills
- Evidence-based practice
- Crisis Intervention
- Group facilitation
- Time Management
- Adaptability in activities
Certification
CTRS
Timeline
Recreation Therapist
Universal Health Services Inc.
07.2022 - 07.2025
Recreational Therapy Intern
Vantage Point Behavioral Health
01.2022 - 05.2022
Recreational Therapy Intern
Willow Crest Behavioral Health
05.2021 - 07.2021
Caregiver
Angie Fontenot
06.2019 - 01.2020
Bachelor's degree - Therapeutic Recreation
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus