Recreational therapy is analogous to occupational therapy. Recreational therapists use activity-based methods to aid you manage your injury, illness or disability. Recreational therapy includes individual and group counseling to enhance your well-being and the functionality of the next organs:
- Physically
- Social
- Emotionally
- Cognitive
- Spiritual
According to the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC), a recreational therapist uses activity-based interventions to deal with the needs of individuals with an illness or debilitating condition.
Recreational therapists deal with healing the “whole person” through psychological and physical recovery and well-being. Recreational therapy is a selected approach to health care that requires specialized education and training.
Required training to grow to be a recreational therapist in most states includes licensure through the Department of Professional and Occupational Licensing (DOPL) and certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Many employers also prefer no less than a bachelor's degree.
After training to grow to be a recreational therapist, continuing education and certification renewals are required every five years.
Recreational therapists work with a team to assist patients of all ages recuperate. The team they work with includes:
- doctors
- nurses
- Psychologists
- Social employee
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational therapists
Recreational therapists used structured group or individual activities to assist their patients improve their physical or social skills. They do that through exercise, mental stimulation, creative projects, and other fun activities. Recreational therapists also help their patients improve basic pondering skills and reduce depression and anxiety.
Recreational and occupational therapy take different approaches to improving an individual's quality of life.
Recreational therapy. Recreational therapists use activities and community engagement to enhance your overall well-being. Recreational therapy helps you develop skills, knowledge, and behaviors to enhance your each day life and community engagement.
Occupational therapy. Occupational therapists aid you relearn stuff you used to do but can now not do because of an injury, illness, or other condition. Occupational therapy combines life sciences and social sciences. Occupational therapists know support you and use your environment to aid you have a greater quality of life.
Recreational therapy can:
Improve strength and physical fitness. Recreational therapists use a non-traditional approach to construct your strength. This includes Tai Chi and dance. These activities are especially vital for individuals who have suffered from weakness because of illness or hospitalization.
Alleviate Depression and anxiety Symptoms. During physical activity, endorphins are released, which make you’re feeling good. These hormones also arise if you find yourself social or creative. Recreational therapists use this approach by:
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
- Dramatic expression
- Creative writing
- Any group activity like cooking or gardening
Recreational therapy is great for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since it helps them improve their mental and emotional coping mechanisms.
Build social connections and boost self-esteem. Recreational therapy helps increase self-esteem through the social connections created locally. Therapy brings people together to forestall them from becoming isolated or feeling worse about their condition.
Support cognitive function. Another a part of recreational therapy includes games like crossword puzzles and chess, that are good in your brain. These activities stimulate your brain and support overall healthy function.
Restore functional independence. After a serious injury, recreational therapy is combined with occupational and physical therapy to supply more opportunities for recovery.
If you’re occupied with becoming a recreational therapist or need one, consult with your doctor. They can aid you find the fitting person in your condition.
When you get your mind, body, and soul on the fitting path, you may heal out of your illness, injury, or other ailment. However, depending on the severity of your condition, you’ll likely work with a team of various therapists. You will work together with your doctor to be certain you’re on the fitting treatment path.