Connecting and creating with all ages and abilities

evidence-based practice & person-centred care

What is recreation therapy?

Jess Jones Recreation Therapy focuses on empowering individuals and communities through therapeutic recreation, supported by professional counseling. Our inclusive, person-centered approach nurtures physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. With expertise in recreation therapy and counseling, we offer programs designed to foster connection, enhance resilience, promote self-awareness, and improve quality of life.

Therapeutic recreation enables individuals of all abilities to build confidence, acquire new skills, and cultivate healthy lifestyles through meaningful leisure. Through activities such as physical exercise, creative arts, and mindfulness practices, participants experience enhanced physical health, improved social connections, and emotional regulation.
 
 
 
Counseling services complement these outcomes by providing a safe space to explore personal challenges, strengthen coping mechanisms, and foster personal growth. Together, these services empower participants to lead fulfilling lives with improved mental health, emotional well-being, and social inclusion.
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Our Approach to Wellness & Leisure

At Jess Jones Recreation Therapy, we are passionate about supporting your health and wellness through recreation, leisure, and compassionate care.

We understand that staying healthy and feeling your best involves more than just discipline—it’s about enjoying life’s moments, connecting with others, and experiencing adventure. With our registered social worker and supervised programs, we provide a variety of therapeutic and recreational activities designed to help you build strength, increase flexibility, and reduce stress, all while having a great time.

Recreation and leisure are essential for a balanced, fulfilling life, and we are dedicated to equipping you with the best tools and resources to achieve that. Our skilled and friendly staff, including recreation therapists and a registered social worker, are here to guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring that each experience is enjoyable, safe, and rewarding.

So, don’t wait any longer—take the first step toward a happier, healthier you, and join us for an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling energized, inspired, and ready to embrace life to the fullest!

Social

Group outings, group programming, community outings, volunteer opportunities

Cognitive

Music, mindfulness, nature therapy, puzzles & games, reminiscing, culinary arts

Physical

Dance, fitness, body movement, nature therapy, puzzles & games, art, music, culinary arts

Spiritual

Meditation, journalling, expressive writing, storytelling, prayer, nature therapy, music

Emotional

Music, Art, Volunteer opportunities, leisure education, one-to-one, group programming

Environmental

Safe location to visit, nature, community, Reggio-Emilia / Montessori Blended philosophy.

Things You Should Know

Our Services

Our services for older adults enhance cognitive function, promote emotional well-being, and maintain social engagement. By integrating leisure activities with emotional support, we ensure residents enjoy a high quality of life.

Program Highlights:

  • Engaging Recreational Activities for Older Adults:
    Our programs include activities like chair yoga, nature walks, and music therapy, tailored to meet the needs of older adults. These activities promote physical health, mental stimulation, and joy in daily life.

  • Cognitive Stimulation and Memory Support:
    Programs such as reminiscence therapy, puzzles, and storytelling encourage mental engagement and help support memory retention. Participants enjoy meaningful activities that stimulate cognitive function and provide a sense of purpose.

  • Emotional Support and Social Connection:
    Group programs foster a sense of camaraderie and encourage socialization, reducing feelings of isolation. Through shared experiences and friendly gatherings, participants build new friendships and maintain emotional well-being.

  • Creative Expression and Relaxation:
    Art classes, journaling, and meditation sessions offer opportunities for self-expression and relaxation. These activities allow individuals to explore their creativity, process emotions, and enjoy a peaceful and supportive environment.

  • Physical Fitness and Mobility Maintenance:
    Light exercises, dance, and movement-based activities are tailored to support mobility and physical health. These programs encourage participants to stay active, maintain coordination, and improve overall well-being.


Program Outcome:
“Participants in our retirement and long-term care programs experience improved physical health, enhanced cognitive engagement, and a strong sense of connection and purpose. By offering a variety of engaging activities that promote wellness, socialization, and creativity, we empower older adults to enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant lifestyle.”

Our retirement and long-term care programs are designed to honor the unique needs of older adults, fostering joy, connection, and a sense of accomplishment at every stage of life.

Our community-based activities promote well-being, encourage connection, and offer opportunities for growth. Participants benefit from both group recreation and counseling support, fostering a sense of belonging while developing critical life skills.
 

Program Highlights:

  • Inclusive Group Activities:
    Our community programs bring people together through activities like group fitness, art workshops, and social outings. These inclusive activities foster connection and encourage participants to form meaningful relationships within a supportive environment.

  • Skill Development and Empowerment:
    Each program is designed to build essential life skills, whether it’s through collaborative projects, leadership activities, or hands-on learning. Participants gain confidence, independence, and a sense of empowerment.

  • Creative Expression and Mindfulness:
    Art, music, and mindfulness sessions allow participants to explore their creativity and develop self-awareness. These activities promote relaxation, encourage self-expression, and provide constructive outlets for emotions.

  • Physical Health and Well-being:
    Programs such as yoga, dance, and outdoor activities improve physical fitness while fostering mental well-being. Through guided, enjoyable exercise, participants strengthen their bodies and minds.

  • Community Engagement and Belonging:
    Our community programming encourages participants to engage meaningfully with their surroundings, building a sense of belonging and pride. By working on local projects or joining group discussions, individuals contribute positively to their community.

Program Outcome:
“Participants in our community programs experience a stronger sense of belonging, improved social skills, and enhanced emotional and physical well-being. Through inclusive group activities that foster connection, skill development, and wellness, individuals build resilience and feel empowered to engage fully with their community.”

At Jess Jones Recreation Therapy, our community programming is designed to bring people together, build lasting skills, and create vibrant connections that enrich lives and strengthen community bonds.

Our autism-specific programs offer structured therapy sessions with a registered social worker alongside therapeutic recreation activities. These dual-focused programs provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with autism to build social, emotional, and life skills. Our team, including a recreation therapist and registered social worker, works collaboratively to create individualized plans that foster growth, resilience, and independence.

Program Highlights:

  • Structured Therapy Sessions with a Registered Social Worker:
    Through one-on-one sessions, participants receive personalized support in areas such as emotional regulation, social skills, and behavioral strategies. These sessions are designed to help individuals navigate everyday challenges with confidence and self-awareness.

  • Therapeutic Recreation Activities Supervised by a Registered Social Worker:
    Recreation therapy offers participants opportunities to engage in sensory-friendly activities, creative arts, and physical fitness, all within a safe and adaptable setting. Activities are structured to meet individual needs and goals, promoting relaxation, self-expression, and personal growth.

  • Social Skills Development and Community Engagement:
    Our programs include group activities where participants can practice social skills, communication, and teamwork. Guided by trained professionals, these interactions foster social awareness, empathy, and comfort in group settings, enhancing community connections.

  • Sensory and Emotional Support:
    We provide sensory-friendly spaces and activities that respect individual sensitivities and help participants manage sensory input. Through mindful techniques and calming activities, individuals learn coping strategies that support emotional well-being.

  • Life Skills and Independence:
    From daily routines to decision-making exercises, our programs empower participants to develop practical life skills, supporting greater independence and self-confidence. These sessions prepare individuals to manage real-life situations with enhanced self-sufficiency.

Program Outcome:
Participants in our autism programs benefit from structured therapy and engaging recreational activities, resulting in improved social interactions, emotional regulation, and life skills. With professional guidance, they build confidence and independence in a nurturing environment tailored to their unique needs.

At Jess Jones Recreation Therapy, our autism programs combine structured therapy with therapeutic recreation, creating a holistic, supportive approach to empower individuals with autism to thrive.

Our respite care services provide compassionate, temporary relief for caregivers while ensuring that their loved ones are engaged in safe, enjoyable, and meaningful activities. Designed for individuals of all ages and abilities, our respite care offers recreational activities tailored to meet each participant’s unique needs, fostering independence and promoting well-being.

Program Highlights:

  • Personalized Activities for Participants:
    Each respite session is designed to meet individual needs and interests, incorporating activities such as art, music, nature exploration, and movement. These engaging experiences encourage personal growth, self-expression, and enjoyment.

  • Safe and Supportive Environment:
    Our team creates a safe and supportive space where participants feel valued and comfortable. Our trauma-informed approach ensures that each individual is respected, with accommodations made for sensory or physical needs.

  • Social Interaction and Connection:
    Group activities during respite care promote socialization, offering participants a chance to connect with others and develop social skills. These interactions reduce isolation, build friendships, and enhance a sense of belonging.

  • Relief for Caregivers:
    Respite care offers caregivers essential time to rest and recharge, reducing stress and preventing burnout. Caregivers can feel confident that their loved ones are in a nurturing and professionally supervised environment.

  • Skill Development and Independence:
    Activities are designed to build life skills, encouraging participants to practice decision-making, creativity, and self-reliance. This focus on independence helps individuals grow and fosters a sense of accomplishment.

Program Outcome:
“Through our respite care services, participants experience social connection, personal growth, and emotional support, while caregivers enjoy essential relief. Our respite care programs provide meaningful engagement that enhances well-being and independence for participants and peace of mind for their families.”

At Jess Jones Recreation Therapy, our respite care services are committed to supporting both caregivers and participants, offering a balanced approach to care that nurtures well-being and strengthens connections.

Through private recreation therapy and counseling, individuals receive support in goal-setting, personal development, and emotional care. Whether focusing on leisure education, addressing trauma, or enhancing self-awareness, each session is designed to promote meaningful and lasting change.

Program Highlights:

  • Personalized Therapy Sessions:
    Our one-on-one counseling sessions are tailored to each individual’s goals, offering a safe and confidential space to address personal challenges, set meaningful goals, and work through emotional difficulties.

  • Supportive Guidance for Self-Discovery:
    Participants receive guidance to explore their strengths, build self-awareness, and develop coping strategies. This journey of self-discovery helps individuals understand themselves better and fosters personal growth.

  • Career Counseling and Professional Growth:
    Our counseling includes career support for recreation professionals, focusing on career planning, stress management, and professional fulfillment. This service empowers professionals to thrive personally and professionally.

  • Goal Setting and Life Skills Development:
    Sessions emphasize practical life skills such as decision-making, communication, and stress management. Participants work on setting and achieving goals that promote resilience, self-efficacy, and independence.

  • Holistic Emotional and Physical Well-being:
    Counseling integrates emotional support with recreational and wellness activities, helping individuals find balance and cultivate mental and physical well-being.

Program Outcome:
Through our private practice and counseling programs, participants gain enhanced self-awareness, strengthened resilience, and skills that empower them to lead fulfilling lives. By providing individualized support that combines counseling with practical skill-building, our programs foster lasting personal growth and emotional well-being.

Jess Jones Recreation Therapy’s private practice and counseling services offer a holistic approach to individual growth and wellness, helping participants unlock their potential in all areas of life.

Our Recreation & Leisure studio in uptown London, Hyde Park, provides over 25 monthly therapeutic recreation & leisure education programs to enhance the quality of life of humans of all ages and abilities. We are a safe, inclusive space – all are welcome.

Our classes and programs offer a variety of engaging, therapeutic activities that cater to individuals of all ages and abilities. From wellness workshops to creative arts and physical fitness, each program is designed to promote personal growth, social connection, and a healthier lifestyle. Our inclusive, supportive environment ensures that participants feel welcomed and empowered to explore new interests and develop essential life skills.

Program Highlights:

  • Wellness and Fitness Classes:
    Participants can enjoy activities like yoga, Pilates, and movement therapy, tailored to all ability levels. These classes promote physical health, enhance mobility, and support mental well-being, encouraging a balanced, active lifestyle.

  • Creative Arts and Expression:
    Through art, music, and drama classes, individuals have the opportunity to express themselves creatively. These sessions provide an outlet for self-expression, emotional processing, and relaxation, fostering a sense of accomplishment and joy.

  • Life Skills Workshops:
    Our life skills programs focus on essential skills like cooking, budgeting, and self-care. Participants gain confidence and independence, acquiring skills that support daily living and enhance self-sufficiency.

  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
    Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation workshops help individuals manage stress, improve focus, and foster emotional resilience. These techniques provide valuable tools for coping with life’s challenges in a calm and centered way.

  • Social and Community Activities:
    Our social programs include group outings, community projects, and interactive workshops that encourage socialization and community involvement. Participants build relationships, strengthen social skills, and enjoy a sense of belonging.

Program Outcome:
Through our diverse classes and programs, participants experience improved physical health, enhanced creativity, and strengthened life skills. By promoting wellness, self-expression, and social connection, these programs empower individuals to lead fulfilling, balanced lives.

Jess Jones Recreation Therapy’s classes and programs are designed to enrich lives, build confidence, and create supportive community connections, helping participants thrive in all aspects of their well-being.

New from the blog

Unlocking Potential: A Guide to Crafting Strengths-Based Evaluation Questions in Recreation Therapy

A strengths-based approach in therapeutic recreation has long been the guiding principle to practicing as a recreational therapist. It has deep roots in positive and humanistic psychology (Austin & McCormick, 2017). A strengths-based approach through service delivery models such as the Leisure Well-being and Flourishing Through Leisure Model identifies an individual’s strengths to increase capabilities related to living well while simultaneously addressing problems and barriers (Hood & Carruthers, 2016).

Read More »

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