SMART News June 2022

What happens when you get a group of Recreation Therapists
from all across the country together for the weekend?
AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!

The SMART CE Retreat was a beautiful weekend that combined passionate people eager to learn, with an amazing natural camplike setting. It was a recreators retreat! Attendees enjoyed a schedule that included many hot topics and plenty of free time for rejuvenation and networking. The photos and the comments tell the story of an event that must continue. Stay tuned for details about the next SMART CE Retreat!!

“This is amazing! Not only for CEUs, but for your own self care. Such a wonderful experience where I met so many great people with the same goal and passions.” – Hoang Huy Nguyen

“I have been to many conferences, this is by far the best I’ve ever attended. The education sessions were stellar, the networking opportunities were top notch, and the location was outstanding! Well run and super professional. I highly recommend!” – Holly Eichner, Ph.D, CTRS-BH, Attendee and Presenter “Mindfulness is More Than Meditation: Practices for the BH Client and Practitioner”

“This is the first time I have been to any type of conference or learning retreat related to rec. therapy, and I gotta say that the SMART CE Retreat set the bar high! It didn’t feel like a classroom-type experience, but rather it felt more like a camp with our best buds and a learning experience on top of it all! Everyone clicked so well right off the bat, and we built very strong connections with each other from all across the country from CA to MA. We did so many fun things and laughed so dang hard from the sessions, the activities, and each other! I couldn’t be more thankful for our down-to-earth leaders and fellow RT/TR colleagues!!! Love you guys and can’t wait to join the next event! Miss y’all already!” – Lindsey Apple

“I’ve used SMART for my CEUs for years for a reason. The courses are educational and relevant. The company itself is personable, reliable, helpful, and quick to respond to any need. I’ve been lucky to attend their retreat as well, which has offered ample networking opportunities, fun courses, and lots of self care time. I’ll continue to be a life long SMART member!” – Kat Keys

The day after returning from the SMART Retreat, Kat implemented a laughter group that she learned about while on the retreat. She shared the results in the SMART Retreat Facebook group. “Sorry to post so much but wanted to update you all on the laughter groups – it went SO well! I had teens come in and say “this is so Dumb,” and within 5 minutes were rolling in laughter. Even our toughest, most closed off staff were giggling and smiling, joining in on the games and such!! It was a definite mood booster for all! So happy I had the opportunity to learn all about the benefits of laughter and how to facilitate groups around it. Thank you to the committee and especially Tina for providing me with that opportunity!”