ABOUT THE THERAPIST

My name is Donella Romano. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Sciences and a Master’s degree in Sport Management, both from Florida State University and a Professional Undergraduate Certificate in Recreational Therapy from Florida International University. As part of my professional training, I completed a required internship accredited by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) at Jackson Memorial’s Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center in Miami, Florida. During this time, I worked closely with individuals recovering from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), and limb loss.

Since 2017, I have served as a lifeguard for the Village of Wellington–a role that has contributed significantly to my academic and professional development. I have been committed to furthering my education from 2018 with the completion of the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Marino Adaptive Aquatics Certification. Most recently, in 2025, I expanded my expertise by earning Autism and Sensory Awareness Training from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.

Building on this foundation, I have brought my vision to life of creating an Aquatic Therapy Program at the Village of Wellington Aquatics Center. With a passion for inclusive recreation and a background in both therapeutic and aquatic settings, I am excited to bring adaptive programming to our community—empowering individuals of all abilities to experience freedom and healing through movement in the water.