Transforming passion into purposeful care
Christelle Marie Berroya’s passion for recreation therapy and commitment to patient care helped her to stand out and flourish in her recent co-op role.
My name is Christelle Marie Berroya and I am a third-year Therapeutic Recreation and Psychology student. During the interview for my current role, my passion for mental health and meaningful patient connection made me stand out, securing me my dream co-op position at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton.
As someone who cares deeply about well-being, my experience as a co-op student became the perfect journey for anyone aspiring to be a recreation therapist, to work in mental health or to simply gain an understanding of integrated patient care.
Christelle’s co-op journey
Boarding staff – English as a Second Language (ESL) program, Appleby College
I spent my time supporting international students ages 10 to 17 as they learned English, participated in activities and adjusted to a new environment. This rewarding experience strengthened my communication, leadership and interpersonal skills all while helping create a positive, inclusive space for youth from around the world.
Recreation therapy student, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (SJHH)
My role on the Schizophrenia & Community Integration Service (SCIS) team was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of mental health, patient-centered care and the importance of recreation in promoting recovery, autonomy and fulfillment in life.
Q&A with Christelle
What is St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and the SCIS?
St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton is a leading hospital in Ontario, known for its commitment to patient-centered care, research and education. From where I work, we specifically focus on mental health and addiction. SJHH is an integrated care health-care system, where they treat both physical and mental health needs.Being part of the SCIS team has given me valuable hands-on experience in patient-centered care and taught me the amazing impact recreation therapy has on recovery.
In my time at SJHH, I witnessed first-hand the power of “Unstoppable Compassion”, SJHH’s motto, from staff’s hard work for patient recovery to the small everyday acts of kindness that make the biggest difference. Being part of this community has inspired me to bring that same compassion to every interaction I have, both professionally and personally.
What drew you to pursue Therapeutic Recreation and Psychology?
I was always interested in psychology, but once I found out about therapeutic recreation I instantly knew this profession was for me. As a person who loves to connect with others, create inclusive communities and is fascinated by the relationship of meaningful activity and well-being, therapeutic recreation and psychology allows me to practice these values.
I’m especially passionate about child development care and mental health, and I love the idea of using recreation and leisure as a creative therapeutic strategy to support individuals during rehabilitation.
Psychology gives me the foundation to understand what people are going through, while therapeutic recreation gives me the tools to help them move forward. Together, I feel like they form the perfect combination of science, compassion and hands-on impact.
How has your passion shaped your experiences and opportunities?
I’m driven by helping people find happiness and experience fulfilling lives. This motivation has guided the way I connect with patients, take on challenges and approach my work everyday.
Following my passion has been the key to shaping both my experiences and the opportunities I’ve had. Even though I didn’t have prior hospital, mental health or patient-care experience, my genuine enthusiasm and commitment to mental health shone through during my interview, helping me stand out and secure my dream co-op position.
Being able to bring my authentic self to the workplace has allowed me to flourish.; I’ve been able to create strong rapport with patients and colleagues, take initiative and embrace new challenges with confidence.
What has been the most rewarding thing about co-op?
The most rewarding part of my co-op has been seeing the direct impact of recreation therapy on patients’ lives, whether it’s helping someone engage in meaningful programs or simply listening to their story. Not only do I work in the Schizophrenia department, but I’ve also been shadowing other recreation therapists in different units. I’ve seen how therapeutic recreation has positively affected patients from Acute Mental Health, Moods Disorder, Cleghorn Early Intervention and more. So many experiences and so many amazing people from one place!
From my current co-op, I’ve learned so much about my strengths, like my ability to connect with patients, and identified areas I want to continue developing, such as confidence in new clinical settings. I feel so lucky to be part of the co-op program for allowing me to have this chance to personally grow with independence and inspiration.
How has co-op helped with your career goals?
My co-op experience has truly been transformative for my career and who I am as a person. It’s given me the chance to step into my dream role, learn from incredible mentors and see first-hand how therapeutic recreation can make a real difference in so many people’s lives.
Beyond all of the skills and knowledge I’ve gained, co-op has helped me understand what kind of professional I want to be – someone who listens deeply, approaches challenges with curiosity and brings genuine compassion to every interaction.
This experience has definitely reaffirmed my passion for mental health and recreation therapy, giving me both the clarity and motivation to pursue a career where I can bring significant change to people in need.
What’s next for you?
As a third-year student, I’m only halfway through my journey, but I already feel grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far. Looking ahead, I hope to finish my degree and get more involved in the University of Waterloo community.
Although I love therapeutic recreation, I also want to explore other areas within mental health, like occupational therapy (OT). Maybe I can pursue a master’s in OT.
At the end of the day, I hope to work with children, specifically at a place like SickKids or Erin Oaks, where I can combine my passion for rehabilitation, therapeutic recreation and child development to make meaningful impact in their lives. Working in early intervention is so important to me to not only help children navigate challenges more effectively, but to also empower them to build resilience, confidence and develop the skills they need to live a fulfilling life.
