Meet the Team
Melissa “Mel” Turnage, CTRS/Owner
Mel started RT and Wellness in 2024 after realizing the need for therapeutic recreation consultative services in the Hampton Roads area. She has been providing therapeutic consultative services to individuals through the Medicaid DD Waiver since 2021. Mel has a Bachelor’s in Recreation Therapy from Old Dominion University, a Bachelor’s in Communication Studies from Virginia Tech and a Master’s in Sport and Recreation Management from Old Dominion University. During her time at ODU, Mel launched the first ever Adapted Recreation Expo in collaboration with departments across the University. Mel is passionate about ensuring the neurodivergent population has the resources they need to bring them joy and improve their overall well-being.
In her free time, Mel loves to spend time with family and friends, go to the beach and festivals, read, play games and exercise.
Victoria Diaz, CTRS, QMHP
Victoria S. Diaz is a dedicated and passionate professional with over five years of experience advocating for individuals with diverse abilities and needs. Victoria is a proud 2020 graduate from Old Dominion University’s Therapeutic Recreation B.S. program and has been registered with the state of Virginia as a Qualified Mental Health Professional since 2022. She has been providing Recreational Therapy (RT) consultative services to individuals and families via the Medicaid DD waiver since 2023.
Victoria has always valued a holistic and diverse approach to care as she has served her local community in various roles over the years. Between providing direct support services as a DSP; carrying out intensive in-home services to youth and their families; and co-running an RT department in an adolescent behavioral health facility, Victoria’s hands-on experience has shaped her into a compassionate, empathetic, and person-centered advocate for underserved communities, particularly individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges. She is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at Virginia Commonwealth University and hopes to continue addressing social justice- and policy-based issues impacting the disability community following graduation.
When she is not working, Victoria enjoys practicing yoga, exploring nature, listening to podcasts, working on personal projects, and spending time with family.
Kristen Wise, CTRS
Kristen Wise is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with extensive experience supporting individuals of all ages and abilities through personalized, goal-driven recreational therapy. Kristen earned her Bachelor’s in Recreational Therapy from Old Dominion University. She specializes in working with individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, and physical impairments. Her consultative approach emphasizes collaboration with caregivers, staff, and interdisciplinary teams to implement meaningful activities that align with each client's interests and therapeutic goals.
Kristen enjoys fishing, listening to live music and spending time with family and friends.
Claire Donohue, CTRS
Claire Donohue is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) who recently graduated from Old Dominion University's Recreational Therapy Program. She is passionate about the power of leisure in transforming lives and is excited to begin making an impact through her work.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at the beach, getting creative with arts and crafts, and working out.
Cameron Clark, CTRS
Cameron Clark is a dedicated Recreation therapist with over 30 years of experience working in Behavioral Health at Portsmouth Naval Hospital. A graduate of Virginia Wesleyan University, she has built a career around her passion for helping others heal and thrive through therapeutic recreation. She finds immense fulfillment in watching patients progress and regain their independence through therapy. She is especially proud to have founded the Pet Therapy Program at the Naval Hospital, bringing the healing power of animals to patient care.
When she's not at work she enjoys spending time with her family, going for walks with her golden retrievers, traveling and home projects.
Takeyra Coats, Ph.D. CTRS
Dr. Coats is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) who obtained a Bachelor’s in Recreation Therapy from Virginia Wesleyan University, a Master’s in Recreation & Tourism Studies and a Doctorate in Sport and Recreation Management from Old Dominion University. She has been a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for over 17 years and spent most of her career as an educator. Her most recent position was as the Recreation Therapy Supervisor at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs.
Dr. Coats is an author and accomplished speaker with over 50 presentations and co-presentations at the state, regional, and national levels. Dr. Coats has served the profession in multiple capacities. Past leadership positions include Co-President of the Virginia State Therapeutic Recreation Association (VASTRA). Takeyra is also a recipient of numerous awards, with highlights such as the 2018 National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) Young Professional Fellowship Recipient and the 2018 Virginia Wesleyan University Faculty Service and Community Engagement Award. Dr. Coats’ published research focuses on topics that include Recreational Therapy, Service-Learning, Homelessness, and Medical Specialty Camps.