What Recreational Therapists Do

Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts; drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being.

Duties

Recreational therapists typically do the following:

• Assess patients’ needs using observation, medical records, tests, and discussions with other healthcare professionals, patients’ families, and patients
• Develop treatment plans and programs that meet patients’ needs and interests
• Plan and implement interventions to support the client in meeting his or her goals
• Engage patients in therapeutic activities, such as exercise, games, and community outings
• Help patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent
• Teach patients about ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
• Document and analyze a patient’s progress
• Evaluate interventions for effectiveness

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