Kelsey Ellis, CTRS/R

Kelsey Ellis is the owner and Recreation Therapist behind Adaptive Pathways. Her practice centers on helping individuals with neurological, physical, and developmental conditions engage in meaningful, accessible, and life-enhancing recreation. Above all else, Kelsey values her relationships with clients and families. She is 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. She believes that collaboration, communication, and trust are the foundation of truly effective therapeutic work.

Kelsey approaches 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, Kelsey brings nearly 20 years of experience supporting individuals living with spinal cord and brain injuries, strokes, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, developmental disabilities, and a wide range of physical and cognitive barriers. As a clinician, parent, daughter, and advocate, she understands 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—Kelsey approaches her work with empathy, creativity, and a deep commitment to person-centered care. She strives to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps her 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, she focuses on creating practical, achievable, and empowering pathways forward.

When she is not working, Kelsey is often exploring the outdoors with her husband, son, and their Golden Retriever-Bernese Mountain Dog mix. She is happiest on skis, a mountain bike trail, or a peaceful walk; enjoying good coffee; reading; connecting with friends and family; or cheering for the Seattle Mariners. She brings the same wholehearted energy she brings to her personal life into her work—believing deeply in the power of recreation, connection, and purpose.