Gena Bell Vargas

Gena Bell Vargas is an Associate Professor of Instruction in the Recreational Therapy Program at Temple University's College of Public Health. She serves as the Master's Program Director and specializes in therapeutic recreation practice efficacy research, focusing on motivational theory to enhance participant engagement. Her clinical background spans urban acute psychiatric inpatient care and inpatient physical rehabilitation, with expertise in treating individuals with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.

• Education: PhD in Therapeutic Recreation (Clemson University), MS and BS in Recreational Therapy Administration and Recreational Therapy (East Carolina University)

Dr. Vargas integrates holistic practices and evidence-based methodologies into her teaching, as reflected in courses like An Introduction to Holistic Practices and Integrative Medicine and Evidence-Based Practice in Recreational Therapy II. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to rehabilitation, including the use of ropes courses and outdoor team-building interventions for individuals with and without disabilities.