Meet Our Team
Raina Bawden
I am Recreational Therapist (CTRS) who holds a passion for working in mental health and community-based recreational therapy! I love working with individuals of all abilities in finding their sense of purpose, exploring what recreational activities get them in their flow, and discover their true, full potential. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed, and am currently pursuing my 200-hour yoga teacher certification. During my free time, I love spending time with my husband and animal babies - 3 cats and a dog! I also enjoy traveling to national parks, hiking with friends, rollerblading, and swimming in the waters of Lake Michigan.
Ariana Flores
I love working as an MT-BC! I graduated from the University of the
Incarnate Word in 2022 with a Bachelor of Music Therapy. I always knew that I wanted a career where I
could help people, but I did not want to give up my love of music. Music therapy allows me to do both! I
was raised in San Antonio and I’m proud to call it my home. I have worked with a variety of clients,
including clients with autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, Alzheimer’s, and more. I also teach adapted piano lessons to people with special needs.
Jennifer Weatherford
S. Fuller
Mar Copeland
I have been working for 4 years as an RT. I have a bachelors in psychology with a minor in special education. MSRLS in Therapeutic Recreation both from Texas State University
Rec interests: outdoor recreation like hiking and kayaking, and crafts like knitting, crocheting, and ceramics. Other interests include yoga, reading, cooking & baking, board games & card games!
Jamie Huff
I’ve been a practicing CTRS for 13 years. I’ve worked in several different settings ranging from acute rehab to hospice as well as have worked with clients age range 6 months to 100 years old. When I am not at work you can find me digging in the garden, going to concerts and most importantly hanging with my two little boys!
Other certificates: Certified Dementia Practioner
Elizabeth Kasimu
Hello! My name is Elizabeth but i go by Liz. I was born in The Democratic Republic of Congo, I grew up in New York and Illinois. I attended The University of Iowa where i received my Bachelors in Therapeutic Recreation. I enjoy reading, baking, crafting, traveling, painting, hiking, listening to music, Zumba, and spending time with family. My heart lightens up when I know I motivated someone to make a positive change in their life or did something to bring a smile to someone's face. One main reason I love being a Recreational Therapist is the joy of seeing others succeed in achieving their goals.
Shalyn Alexander
I'm a former three sport varsity athlete in Cross Country, Basketball, and Track and Field. Using my talents on the track, I earned a full ride to Western Caronlina University where my teammates introduced me to the field of recreation therapy. I received my B.S in Recreation Therapy in 2011 and my M.Ed in Adaptived Physical Education from Western Michigan University in 2018. As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, I have over a decade of experience working with adolescence to older adults population. I have experience working individuals with both mental and physical health diagnoses. Outside of work, I enjoy playing bingo with my grandma, hanging out with my friends, traveling and eating good food, and playong a good game of Spades. When I'm
not feeling too lazy, you might catch me
outside for a good run and some Vitamin C. I'm always up to try new adventures at least once in my life...just as long as it doesn't deal with snakes.
Ellie
I am a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)… or Recreation Therapist for
short. I completed my master’s at Texas State University, majoring in Therapeutic Recreation. I graduated with my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Sciences with a focus in non-profit and event planning. Since become certified in the recreation therapy field, I have worked in mental health with varying
populations. I am currently an ATRA member. I served on the ATRA Student Committee for 2 years, while in grad school. My goal is to serve as a Member At Large for ATRA one day to continue advocating for the
profession and increase resources and opportunities for the recreation therapy community.My hobbies and interests include reading, spending time with family and friends, playing with my dog,traveling, and music festivals/concerts. I enjoy exploring and visiting somewhere new and local spots I’ve never visited before. Adventure is out there… and all are welcome!
Haley Erickson
I have been workin as a CTRS for almost 10 years! I Graduated from the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse with a Bachelor’s
degree in Therapeutic Recreation. I have worked in a variety of different settings, but the majority of my
experience is in the mental health field. I am passionate about connecting people with their
community and finding joy through leisure and recreation. I am a dog mom to two fiercely snuggly
pitbulls and I am a breast cancer survivor. I have lived in Minnesota for the majority of my life and in
my free time I love exploring all that Minnesota has to offer. I enjoy attending local community events,
sporting events, farmers markets, live music, etc. I also love being creative and trying new crafts. I’m a firm believer in the idea that you don’t know until you try and I’m always up for an adventure!