Meet Jamila

My Story

My journey into Recreation Therapy began with a simple but powerful realization: real change isn't just talked about—it's lived. I was drawn to this field because of its practicality. Recreation Therapy is hands-on, tangible, and immediately applicable. It allows people to experience the potential for change, not just discuss it in theory. They live it out in real time.

That's how I see lasting transformation happening—not through rigid formulas, but through flexible, adaptive approaches that meet people where obstacles and barriers actually show up. I became a Recreation Therapist because I wanted to walk alongside people as they navigate those challenges, helping them see their own process of overcoming and building resilience.

After seven years in Recreation Therapy and a decade in the mental health field, I recognized an opportunity to reach even more people. Not everyone knows they can access Recreation Therapy, but many are actively seeking support for lifestyle changes—whether it's their own desire for growth or encouragement from loved ones who see they're struggling. That's why I added Health & Wellness Coaching to my practice.

Coaching allows me to meet people exactly where they are. It gives us space to talk through what they're experiencing, set measurable goals, and begin the process of change with the support of someone who can truly hear them—someone outside their immediate circle who can provide insight, acknowledge their wisdom, and hold space for their journey.

What I love most about this work are those light bulb moments—when a client suddenly sees beyond the struggle, the illness, or the frustration. When they glimpse the bigger picture and recognize the road ahead, obstacles and all. When they discover their own resilience and self-efficacy. Those moments remind me why I do this work every single day.

I bring my own lived experience to this practice. I've navigated chronic pain, self-doubt, and the uncertainty of whether I could move forward on my own. Setting small, measurable goals has been my lifeline—the reason I've been able to keep going. I understand what it's like to need support, and I'm honored to offer that to others.

My approach is creative and adaptable. I love using different types of activities—from simply listening to music to complex multi-step art projects or physical activities—to help clients gain insight into their challenges. We process feelings before and after, and I find creative ways to spark the thought processes that lead to breakthroughs. I integrate CBT and DBT techniques when they're applicable, and motivational interviewing has been woven into my practice since day one.

Whether we're working together through Recreation Therapy or Health & Wellness Coaching, my commitment is the same: to help you see your own strength, navigate your unique path, and create sustainable change that truly fits your life.