Biography
Jennifer Hinton obtained a bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. in recreational therapy;
she has been a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for over 30 years, spending
most as an educator. She is currently a Professor at Ìð¹ÏÊÓƵapp.<br>Hinton
is a licensed recreational therapist in North Carolina and a distinguished fellow
in the National Academy of Recreational Therapists. Hinton is an accomplished speaker,
having nearly 100 state, regional, and national presentations. Hinton has served the
profession in multiple capacities including President for the American Therapeutic
Recreation Association, Member at Large for the Committee on Accreditation of Recreational
Therapy Education and Chair of the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification
Board of Directors.<br><br>Hinton has received several teaching and service awards,
including specific recognition for her work on curricula and in service learning.
She has a passion for serving her community in rural Western NC. This small haven
in the mountains of Southern Appalachia immerses her in her many interests including
hiking, investigating nature’s small miracles, and growing things. She is a fan of
all the types of outdoor exploring that allow one to get lost in the forest or in
destinations far away and off regular beaten paths.
Teaching Interests
I have a wide variety of teaching interests. Along with overall curriculum development,
my specific interests in nature and adventure-based applications provide a unique
pathway for many students in the Program. I've currently taken over the courses and
labs focused on working with people with physical disabilities.
Research Interests
My research interests vary, but typically focus on curricular and credentialing aspects
of the profession, including clinical preparation. I am currently involved in research
on micro-dosing of nature, and have also co-published on the use of dogs in therapy.
