Recreational Therapy, Art Therapy
Recreational therapists, also referred to as therapeutic recreation specialists, provide treatment services and recreation activities for individuals with disabilities or illnesses.
Using a variety of techniques, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings, therapists improve and maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their clients. Therapists help individuals reduce depression, stress, and anxiety; recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities; build confidence; and socialize effectively so that they can enjoy greater independence and reduce or eliminate the effects of their illness or disability.
In addition, these therapists help people with disabilities integrate into the community by teaching them how to use community resources and recreational activities. Art therapy can increase awareness of self, cope with symptoms, stress and traumatic experiences, and enhance cognitive abilities through the practice of creating art -- including talking about it with a trained art therapist.
Recreational therapists are different from recreation workers, who organize recreational activities primarily for enjoyment. In acute health care settings, such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers, recreational therapists treat and rehabilitate individuals with specific health conditions, usually in conjunction or collaboration with physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and physical and occupational therapists. In long-term and residential care facilities, recreational therapists use leisure activities-especially structured group programs-to improve and maintain their clients' general health and well-being. They also may provide interventions to prevent the client from suffering further medical problems and complications.