The Recreational Therapist’s Introduction to Working with Individuals with Huntington’s Disease

*This course has been pre-approved by NCTRC for 5 clock hours.

In this course, the student will learn about Huntington’s Disease, gain valuable insight on the history, statistics, facts, diagnosis, staging, treatment options, and how Recreation Therapy can play a large role in providing quality of life for individuals living with HD. Furthermore, students will also have the opportunity to explore a case study. The learner will then need to pass a competency quiz, scoring at least a 70%, in order to be awarded the completion certificate within 365 days of starting the course.

Course Objectives

  • Develop a basic understanding of Huntington’s Disease; define, history, and statistics

  • Identify key terms related to HD

  • Explain the difference between adult-onset and juvenile-onset Huntington's Disease

  • Develop an understanding of the symptoms associated with HD which include: movement disorders, cognitive disorders and psychiatric disorders

  • To gain knowledge on the diagnosis, staging and treatment of Huntington’s Disease

  • Explore Therapeutic Recreation interventions related to HD and how to overcome potential barriers to participation

Allison Kruk, MA, BA, CTRS

Instructor Bio:

Allison Kruk holds an undergraduate degree in Recreation Administration with a concentration in Therapeutic Recreation from Kean University and a masters degree in Wellness, Health Promotion and Lifestyle Management from Rowan University. Allison has been a CTRS for 6 years as of 2020. She has experience in geriatrics, TBI, subacute rehabilitation and Huntington’s Disease. She currently works at a skilled nursing facility that cares for the needs of a diverse population, including Huntington’s Disease. In her spare time, Allison enjoys traveling, going to the beach, attending sporting events, coaching softball and attending concerts.

Allison Kruk, MA, BA, CTRS

SMART Instructor