Recreational therapist


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Recreational therapist


Recreational therapists, also called therapeutic recreation specialists, are health and rehabilitation professionals who provide treatment services and recreation activities to people with disabilities or illnesses.

Recreational therapists use arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings to help people with disabilities and illnesses be more independent and reduce the depression, stress, and anxiety caused by their disability or illness.

Recreational therapists complete 2 to 4 years of undergraduate work. They can be certified through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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