Education
BS Leisure Studies, Temple University
MS Counseling Psychology with Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy, Chestnut Hill College
PhD Health Studies (Public Health & Recreational Therapy), Temple University
Scholarly Contributions
Dr. Porter’s scholarly activity focuses on meaningful recreation and leisure activities as therapeutic tools for individuals with physical and neurological health conditions. She’s authored 25+ journal articles, 5 textbooks that are utilized in NCTRC exam question development, 50+ book chapters, and 90+ professional presentations. She is the Founder and Director of RT Wise Owls, an open access RT database and evidence-based practice resource center, along with the associated RT Wise Owls Research Lab. She is also the owner of RecThera, a publishing house that creates products for individuals looking to improve health and wellness through recreation and play.
Featured Publications
Porter, H., Goodno, H., Wahl, N., Bowman, E., Titlow, C., Opitz, A., Maher, G., Swingle, I., & Roth, S. (2023). Leisure education and leisure counseling in adult stroke: A systematic review. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 57(2), 97-1152.
Porter, H. (2024). Assessment, clinical decision making, & documentation in recreational therapy. RecThera. ISBN 9798334912977
Porter, H. (2023). Nature walking for wellness: Activities and assessments for a healthier you. RecThera. ISBN 9798859934119
Leadership & Professional Service
Dr. Porter created and coordinated the international RT Evidence-Based Practice Conference, advocated for RTs to be providers of Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and hosted the first RT CIMT training, contributed to the development of the Lower Limb Amputation ICF Core Set, is the Chair for RT licensure in Pennsylvania, and has been involved in various NCTRC and ATRA committees. She is currently an invited writing group member for a national rehabilitation clinical guideline. She also received an unsolicited Citation from the City of Philadelphia on her career accomplishments and dedication to enhancing the lives of Philadelphia citizens.
Professional Awards & Recognition
Dr. Porter has received several teaching awards including the Excellence in Teaching Award, Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, and Temple University’s Great Teacher Award where her name is engraved in Temple University’s Founders Garden. She received ATRA’s Member of the Year Award and several awards from her local ATRA chapter for her dedication to professional service and advancement. She was inducted into the Temple University Provost’s Teaching Academy. She routinely mentors graduate students in teaching pedagogy to earn the Teaching in Higher Education certificate, and mentors students in research and manuscript development.