This article may require cleanup to meet Wikipedia's quality standards. Please improve this article if you can. (September 2007)

Recreational therapy, also referred to as recreation therapy and therapeutic recreation, contributes to the broad spectrum of health care through treatment, education, and the provision of adapted recreational opportunities — all of which aid in improving and maintaining physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, preventing secondary health conditions, enhancing independent living skills and overall quality of life.

[edit] Educational programs

A bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation is required for most entry-level positions. These programs typically cover areas such as treatment and program planning, human anatomy, physiology, and professional ethics. Some programs offer the opportunity to specialize in the treatment of mental or physical disabilities. Most employers prefer to hire candidates who are Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS). Therapists become certified through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). To qualify for certification, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, pass a written exam, and complete an internship under the supervision of a CTRS. ^[1]

[edit] Professional organizations

The National Therapeutic Recreation Society ^[2] and the American Therapeutic Recreation Association ^[3] offer its members organizations much like other certified professions.^{[clarification needed]} The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification ^[4], 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 re-certification at the end of the expiration period. Most recreational therapist make a rough estimate of $43,070 a year.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] References

1. ^ Colleges with Therapeutic Recreation Programs
2. ^ National Therapeutic Recreation Society website
3. ^ American Therapeutic Recreation Association
4. ^ National Therapeutic Recreation Certification

[edit] External links

• American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)
• National Therapeutic Recreation Society (NTRS)
• Therapeutic Recreation Directory
• Recreation Therapy Blog
• Therapeutic Recreation Store
• Therapeutic Recreation eCards
• National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC)
• U.S. Department of Labor: Recreation Therapist