Recreational Therapy:
What It Is / Benefits To Clients

What is recreational therapy?

Recreational therapy, also referred to as therapeutic recreation, is defined by the United States Department of Labor as a profession of specialists who utilize activities as a form of treatment for persons who are physically, mentally or emotionally disabled (Paraphrased, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 1991). Differing from diversional or recreation services, recreational therapy utilizes various activities as a form of active treatment to improve the physical, cognitive, emotional and social functioning and to increase independence in life activities of persons disabled as a result of trauma or disease. Recreational therapy services are delivered by qualified professionals who are formally trained and credentialed, through national testing, by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.

What are the benefits of recreational therapy services?