Christina Coleman

Christina Coleman, is a dedicated and accomplished professional in the field of Recreational Therapy, with a focus on pediatric physical medicine and rehabilitation research, mental health and well being of individuals with physical disabilities, and community solutions.  Currently finishing her Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences, and is currently a PhD Candidate at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. The anticipated completion of their dissertation, titled "Learning 2 BREATHE: A feasibility study exploring the participation of youth with physical disabilities in a mindfulness-based intervention to increase self-regulation and social participation," is set for Spring, 2024.

Christina has a rich educational background, including a Master of Science in Recreation and Leisure Services with an emphasis on Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University, a Master of Education in Physical Education with an emphasis on Adaptive Physical Activity from Tarleton State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Studies from Tarleton State University. They also hold an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Trinity Valley Community College.

As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) since 2011 and a Master Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (MTRS) licensed by the State of Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing from 2019 to 2023, she brings a wealth of expertise to their professional roles.

Christina Coleman, has made significant contributions to academia, currently serving as an Assistant Teaching Professor at Arizona State University in Phoenix, AZ, within the School of Community Resources and Development's Recreational Therapy program. Prior to this, they held roles as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Utah in the Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies.

In their clinical appointments, Christina has demonstrated versatility by working as a Recreational Therapist at the University of Utah's Huntsman Mental Health Institute, serving individuals in inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatry settings. They have also held roles as a Recreation Therapist and Internship Coordinator at Laurel Ridge Treatment Center in San Antonio, TX, specializing in inpatient/outpatient psychiatry.

Christina is an active member of various professional associations, including the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA), the Arizona State Therapeutic Recreation Association (ASTRA), and the Utah Recreation Therapy Association (URTA), among others.

Their commitment to education extends beyond traditional classroom settings, as evidenced by the diverse array of courses they have taught, including "Inclusive Community Development," "Program Planning," and "Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation." As she has also spearheaded socially embedded teaching projects, fostering engagement between students and the community.

In addition to their teaching and academic roles, Christina has contributed to the body of knowledge in their field with peer-reviewed journal articles, research abstracts, and presentations at national and international conferences. Their research focuses on topics such as pain management in individuals with spinal cord injuries and the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on individuals with back pain.

Outside of their academic and research pursuits, Christina is actively involved in service, both within and beyond their educational institutions. They have taken on leadership roles in committees, mentorship programs, and advisory boards, showcasing a dedication to the advancement and improvement of the field of Recreational Therapy.