What do recreation therapists do?

Recreation therapists help a client address barriers to leisure due to illness, disability, chronic condition or aging. Recreation therapists promote health and wellness by:

• Educating clients and families about the benefits of a balanced leisure lifestyle
• Addressing barriers to leisure
• Providing opportunities to a client to build skills, confidence and independence within the their community, home or facility
• Collaborating with families, other health care providers and community agencies to integrate leisure
• Working with clients to increase leisure satisfaction

Where do recreation therapists work?

Recreation therapists conduct their work in many different settings and contexts, including:

• Hospitals and community health centres
• Supportive living and long-term care facilities
• Home care within a client’s home
• Adult day support
• Rehabilitation and chronic disease management programs
• Addiction & Mental Health service programs
• Community settings

What are the credentials for a recreation therapist?

• Recreation therapists have a degree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation or recreation and leisure studies. They require professional membership with the Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)
• Some therapists are Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS)