Occupational therapy and physical therapy are well-known professions. While healthcare providers often prescribe these forms of therapy in conjunction with one another, they each serve a distinct purpose.
The same is true for recreational therapy (RT). If you’re considering the “therapy tract” for your career, the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Recreation with an Emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation program from Northwest Missouri State University can provide the educational path you want. The following information may help guide your decision.
Recreational Therapy, Defined
The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) defines recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, as “a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.” This involves taking a “whole person” approach to one’s physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning.
It’s also important to clarify that therapeutic recreation is not simply organizing recreational activities for enjoyment. Recreational therapy is an orchestrated healthcare approach that entails certain educational requirements. While some employers will hire recreational therapists with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, many prefer that professionals have the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential from NCTRC — a certification process that knowledge gained in an M.S. in therapeutic recreation program prepares you for. A master’s degree can also give you a leg up on the competition.
5 Health Goals Therapeutic Recreation Helps Achieve
Recreational therapy has applications for individuals of all ages across many different categories of health goals, offering many benefits. Below are a few examples of how RT serves as a vital rehabilitation strategy.
1) Improves Strength and Physical Fitness
Using more “nontraditional” strength-building approaches (tai chi, dance) instead of weight-based exercises can improve balance, flexibility and overall physical strength. This is beneficial for almost every age group, from children and adolescents who are weakened due to illness or hospitalization to the geriatric population.
2) Mitigates Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Physical activity results in increased endorphins, often described as “feel good” hormones, essential for alleviating depression. Endorphins also spike during periods of social interaction or when individuals express bouts of creativity. All three (physical activity, social interaction, creativity) are employed during RT, with activities such as art therapy, music therapy, dance, dramatic expression, creative writing or any group activity, such as a cooking class or gardening party.
Recreational therapy also benefits those who struggle with anxiety, whether chronic or situational in nature. For example, children who suffer from a chronic illness may have to spend a lot of time in the hospital. This can elicit feelings of stress, fear and vulnerability. Incorporating therapeutic play into their day-to-day activities provides a chance to get closer to hospital staff, better communicate their feelings and develop a much-needed sense of control.
Further, recreational therapy can help those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Veterans of combat are often at risk for PTSD, but anyone who experiences a traumatic event can develop the disorder. Recreational therapy is integral to the trauma-informed care often employed to improve the mental and emotional coping mechanisms PTSD patients utilize.
3) Strengthens Self-Esteem and Social Connections
Poor self-esteem and lack of self-confidence are very closely related to reduced social connections and even total isolation. According to Healthline’s overview of recreational therapy, various studies show that RT can boost self-esteem and improve the number and quality of social connections among individuals, including:
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- Older adults in long-term care facilities
- Early dementia patients
- People suffering from illness, injury or disability
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4) Supports Cognitive Function
Many people use “brain games” like crossword puzzles, Sudoku or chess to boost cognitive abilities and prevent brain aging. Research supports the claim that activities like these stimulate the brain, as do physical activity and social interactions. So, while RT cannot overcome permanent brain damage, various therapies can support healthy brain functioning.
5) Restores Functional Independence Following Injury
Serious afflictions like multiple broken bones or spinal injuries can make daily activities challenging. Occupational therapy, physical therapy and recreational therapy would likely be prescribed together to help restore a patient’s functional independence in these scenarios. RT contributes to the social and physical aspects of resuming a patient’s daily lifestyle.
A Promising Future for Patients and Providers Alike
Of course, the above is just a sampling of how RT can contribute to patients’ overall health. As this specialty continues to grow, so too will opportunities for recreational therapists. This can be particularly lucrative for therapists with an M.S. degree and those with the CTRS credential, which the NCTRC considers the “most professionally advanced credential for the field of therapeutic recreation.”
Learn more about Northwest’s online M.S. in Recreation with an Emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation program.
