Carissa Ronish is Our New Therapeutic Recreation Administrator—Welcome Aboard!

The Nathaniel Witherell is widely recognized for our excellent therapeutic recreation program. We offer fitness classes, art and music therapy, pet therapy, events and celebrations, and spiritual services (sometimes all in one week!). We believe that therapeutic recreation is a crucial service, proven to enhance emotional and physical well-being.

So, we’re thrilled to announce the arrival of a seasoned pro to take the helm of our program—Carissa Ronish of Greenwich, CT has recently joined as our new Administrator of Therapeutic Recreation.

“Carissa brings an impressive background in creating new and engaging therapeutic programs for the elderly to the Witherell and has experience working with those with physical and cognitive challenges,” says the Witherell’s Executive Director Allen Brown. “She’s a dynamic leader who will support the wonderful culture and energy that the Witherell is known for.”

The Witherell’s therapeutic recreation program is designed to keep residents active and engaged, and is tailored to individual needs. As Therapeutic Recreation Administrator, Carissa will supervise over 100 programs and events, managing a team of six staffers as well as regular volunteers. Current therapeutic recreation programs include fitness classes (chair dancing, stretching, movement, Zumba), interactive musical events, bingo, and music, art and pet therapy.

Prior to joining the Witherell, Carissa was Therapeutic Recreation Director & Volunteer Coordinator at Benchmark Senior Living at Edgehill in Stamford, CT. In addition, she worked as a private art therapist for children with special needs. Prior to that, Carissa was a therapist at SuperKids in Norwalk, CT.

A graduate of University of Pittsburgh, Carissa holds a B.S. in Psychology and received an M.S. in Art Therapy/Counseling from the College of New Rochelle. She also worked as an art therapy intern at The Henry Ittleson Center in the Bronx, and at St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health in Westport, CT. Carissa began her career as a Vision Therapy Provider at the Center for Visual Management in Tarrytown, NY. There she specialized in treating individuals with autism, learning disabilities, and emotional behaviors.