Recreational therapy

Recreational therapists, also known as Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS), provide treatment services and recreation activities to individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Treatment services utilize leisure activities to diminish or eliminate disabling conditions. These conditions may include physical, cognitive, social, emotional, spiritual, or other areas which limit the individual. The recreational therapist may use a variety of techniques, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community reintegration outings. A recreational therapist works with the client, their family members and other close friends to improve their health condition.

Recreation Therapists provide a variety of interventions including, but not limited to: leisure counseling, values clarification, bibliotherapy, cinematherapy, horticulture therapy, therapeutic community, humor, therapeutic use of touch, relaxation techniques, physical activity, aromatherapy, tai chi, assertiveness training, social skills training, cognitive rehabilitation, animal-assisted therapy, aquatic therapy, creative arts, reality orientation, validation therapy, remotivation, resocialization, sensory training, self-esteem training and reminiscence. ]].

A recreational therapist may also provide leisure education. Leisure education is aimed at providing clients with information to help return to a meaningful leisure lifestyle. This may include information related to topics such as adapted sports, motivational techniques, implementing healthy and active lifestyles, leisure availability, community programs, transportation options, support networks, and appropriate leisure options to drugs and alcohol abuse.

Recreational Therapists must graduate from a 4-year, Bachelor's Degree program.

Professional organizations
The National Therapeutic Recreation Society and the American Therapeutic Recreation Association offer its members organizations much like other certified professions. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification, a charter member of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA), also provides a certification that expires after 5 years. Those who are certified must apply for recertification at the end of the expiration period. Most recreational therapist make a rough estimate of $16.90 an hour and $35,150 a year.

Educational programs
There are currently over 100 colleges/universities which offer degree programs in Therapeutic Recreation.

Therapeutic Recreation Exam Certification

 * National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC)