WHAT IS RECREATIONAL THERAPY? 

Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with a variety of needs as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being. Further, "Recreational Therapy” means a treatment service designed to restore, remediate and rehabilitate a person’s level of functioning and independence in life activities, to promote health and wellness as well as reduce or eliminate the activity limitations and restrictions to participation in life situations manifested by differing abilities and needs. 

Specifically targeted activities address the needs of each individual and provide positive experiences that decrease negative behaviors, increase socialization skills, stimulate cognition, develop motor and leisure skills, build confidence and increase self-esteem, develop skills in building and maintaining friendships, and enhance quality of life.  

HOW ARE RECREATIONAL THERAPIES DIFFERENT FROM OTHER THERAPIES? 

Recreational Therapy (RT) embraces a definition of "health" which includes not only the absence of "illness," but extends to enhancement of physical, cognitive, emotional, social and leisure development so individuals may engage in pursuits as independently as possible. The unique feature of RT that makes it different from other therapies is the use of recreational modalities in the designed intervention strategies. RT is extremely individualized to each person by his or her past, present and future interests and lifestyle. The recreational therapist has a unique perspective regarding the social, cognitive, physical, and leisure needs of the client. Incorporating client's interests, and the client's family and/or community makes the therapy process meaningful and relevant. Recreational therapists weave the concept of healthy living into treatment to ensure not only improved functioning, but also to enhance independence and successful involvement in all aspects of life. 

WHO PROVIDES RECREATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES? 

Recreational therapy is provided by qualified professionals know as Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) or Recreation Therapist Certified (RTC). Requirements to be become a CTRS/RTC include a Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university, a formal clinical internship and passing a national or state competency exam. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) oversees the credentialing process. Several states also require recreational therapists to be licensed within their states. 

WHERE IS RECREATIONAL THERAPY PROVIDED? 

Recreational therapy is provided in a variety of settings where the therapeutic process is used. This process involves assessment of an individual's needs and functioning, planning of interventions, implementation of services, evaluation of interventions and client progress and documentation of services provided. 

Recreational therapists practice in settings such as inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation, inpatient and outpatient mental health, skilled nursing facilities and assisted living, adult day programs, group homes, park and recreation, adapted sports programs, acute care hospitals, pediatric hospitals and programs and school systems to name a few places.  

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM RECREATIONAL THERAPY? 

Research indicates that recreational therapy provides a variety of positive health outcomes for individuals of all ages with physical disabilities, older adults, individuals with psychiatric disorders, pediatric patients, youth at risk and people with intellectual disabilities or brain injuries.