Jill Catalano

Recreation Therapist

When I was in high school, I joined the Health Careers Club, becoming its president my senior year. I knew I wanted a career in the health field and while I wasn’t sure exactly where, I was leaning toward a therapy specialty.  My guidance counselor suggested a new program called, “Recreational Therapy” which was offered at Montclair University.  I really didn’t know too much about it, but I liked the idea of a therapy aimed at recreation, so I applied, was accepted, and headed into this new endeavor with an open mind and a positive attitude.  I added a minor in Psychology and before I knew it, I was hooked!

In the early years of my recreational therapy career, I worked in psychiatric units, geriatric units, skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals. I left the field in the early years of raising my family, but eventually returned and added new certifications in Personal Training, Phlebotomy & EKG, even earning an Elementary Teacher certification! I enjoyed every aspect of my diverse endeavors; however, I was missing the joy and satisfaction that I experienced when I was working with different populations as a Recreation Therapist. Knowing that you are enhancing one’s physical, cognitive, emotional, social and leisure development is so rewarding.

I always believe things happen for a reason and I am so thrilled that my journey led me to my place at Peace Aging Care Experts as a member of the SPICE team.  I believe being of service to others allows us to see beauty and good that brings us beyond ourselves.