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WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC RECREATION?

By Mandy Kuykendall, CTRS
Therapeutic Recreation Director

 

The art of living lies not in eliminating but growing with troubles.
-Bernard Baruch-


Therapeutic Recreation, also referred to as recreation therapy, TR or RT, is a treatment service that provides treatments and recreation activities to individuals with illnesses or disabling conditions to improve or maintain physical, mental and emotional well-being and helps reduce depression, stress and anxiety.

Recreational therapies help patients recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities, build confidence and socialize more effectively. Treatments may incorporate arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music and community outings.

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.

College programs that offer Therapeutic Recreation include Arkansas Tech University ( Russellville , AR ) and Henderson State University ( Arkadelphia , AR ).  These programs prepare students to plan, organize, and direct recreational activities that encourage the health and well-being of patients with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities.  A warm, friendly person with strong leadership and communication skills is best. You'll need to be able to motivate others while showing patience toward clients with limited abilities. You'll enjoy this major if you like planning and running programs and activities.

For more information, please or visit any of the websites below:
http://www.nctrc.org
http://atra-online.com
http://arkansasrt.com 

Please share this article with all your co-workers, friends, and family to help support National Therapeutic Recreation Week.  Thank you!

 Click here for great ideas on how to celebrate TR month

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