Meet your Recreational Therapist

Kelsey Ellis, CTRS/R

Hi, I’m Kelsey, owner and Recreational Therapist behind Adaptive Pathways. My practice centers on helping adults recovering from stroke and living with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions return to meaningful, accessible, life-enhancing recreation. Above all else, I value my relationships with clients and families. I am committed to treating every person with respect, compassion, and genuine curiosity, while supporting them through both the day-to-day and long-term challenges they face. I believe that collaboration, communication, and trust are the foundation of truly effective therapeutic work.

I approach recreational therapy as both a clinician and an educator: people deserve not only engaging and therapeutic activities—they deserve to understand how recreation can support their health, independence, identity, and quality of life. Recreational therapy is not simply about “doing activities”; it is about building confidence, preserving strengths, supporting mental and emotional well-being, and creating opportunities for joy and meaning.

As a CTRS, a Washington State Registered Recreational Therapist, and a certified PWR!Moves instructor, I bring nearly 20 years of experience supporting individuals living with strokes, brain injuries, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, epilepsy, spinal cord injury, and a wide range of physical and cognitive barriers. As a clinician, parent, daughter, and advocate, I understand the complexity of family relationships and the importance of honoring each person’s lived experience.

With extensive experience across community, rehabilitation, and home-based settings—as well as service as President of the Washington State Therapeutic Recreation Association—I approach my work with empathy, creativity, and a deep commitment to person-centered care. I strive to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps my clients participate more fully in the activities and environments that matter most to them. Whether adapting a sport, supporting functional mobility, facilitating community engagement, or helping someone rediscover a hobby, I focus on creating practical, achievable, and empowering pathways forward.

Outside of work, I am often exploring the outdoors with my husband, son, and our Golden Retriever-Bernese Mountain Dog mix. I am happiest on skis, training for a triathlon, or on a peaceful walk in the beautiful Snoqualmie Valley. I also enjoy good coffee, reading, jigsaw puzzles, connecting with friends and family and cheering for the Seattle Mariners. I bring the same wholehearted energy that I bring to my personal life into my work—believing deeply in the power of recreation, connection, and purpose.