A recreational therapist is a healthcare professional who uses recreational activities and interventions to promote the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals with disabilities, illnesses, or injuries. Their goal is to enhance quality of life, improve functional abilities, and foster independence. Click to explore more occupational details:
Recreational Therapist
Education Required
Employers may require or prefer recreational therapists to be certified. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) offers the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential. Candidates may qualify for certification in more than one way. For example, one option requires a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy, completing a supervised internship, and passing an exam. Another option also requires passing an exam but allows candidates with a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated subject to qualify with a combination of education and work experience. In order to maintain certification, therapists must either pass an exam or complete work experience and continuing education requirements after a specified number of years.
The NCTRC also offers certification in specialization area designations, including adaptive sports and recreation, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities. Therapists also may earn certificates from other organizations to show proficiency in specific therapy techniques, such as aquatic therapy or aromatherapy.
A small number of states require recreational therapists to be licensed or certified. For specific requirements, contact a state’s licensing board.
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