Therapeutic Recreation
What is therapeutic recreation?
Therapeutic recreation uses leisure activities like games and crafts to improve health and well-being. Therapeutic recreation can help you:
- Develop goals for your health
- Learn and practice skills you need to care for yourself
- Be as independent as you can be
- Gain confidence and a sense of achievement
- Have the chance to be with others
- Learn ways to manage stress
Therapeutic recreation may also help you enjoy life more.
When is it used?
Therapeutic recreation may be helpful if you have:
- Physical disabilities caused by birth defects, diseases such as multiple sclerosis, or a stroke
- Mental disabilities caused by birth defects or brain injuries
- Mental or behavioral health problems that make it hard to get along with other people
How does it work?
The therapist will ask about your abilities, interests, needs, health history, and any problems you are having. Make sure that you let your therapist know If there are activities you want to be able to do. The therapist may create a written plan that can be used to measure your progress. Activities in the program may include:
- Games or arts and crafts to improve mental skills and creativity
- Exercise programs, yoga, Tai Chi, or sports to improve your balance, movement, and muscle strength
- Games and group activities to increase mental awareness, self-esteem, confidence, and social skills, and help you make more friends.
- Aquatic therapy, hiking, or horseback riding to relax your mind and body and help you manage stress.
Recreational therapists must have a college degree. They may be certified. Many states also require that therapists be licensed. Therapists may work out of hospitals, senior centers, local recreation departments, or private practices.
Therapeutic recreation may be covered by your health insurance plan or by Medicare or Medicaid for some conditions. Check with your insurance company and healthcare provider about what you need to do to get a therapy referral.
