Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.

The purpose of the RT process is to improve on the 5 domains of Recreational Therapy. These include physical, spiritual, artistic, intellectual and social and sensory domains in order to facilitate full participation in life. Services are provided or directly supervised by a “Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist” (CTRS).

Recreational therapy includes, but is not limited to, providing treatment services and recreation activities to individuals using a variety of techniques including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings. Recreational therapists treat and help maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their clients by seeking to reduce depression, stress, and anxiety; recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities; build confidence; and socialize effectively. Recreational therapists should not be confused with recreation workers, who organize recreational activities primarily for enjoyment.

Recreational Therapy is a client centered service where each client receives a personal and specific
Recreational Therapy assessment and treatment plan that has been reviewed with the individual, that
focuses on clients needs. Goals are then determined by the Recreational Therapist that will best fit the
needs and desired outcomes for each client.

Recreational Therapy services are provided for a number of populations, primarily focusing on those
who are involved with the Medicaid Waiver system. Recreational Therapy clients are typically
associated with either the Family Support Waiver (FSW) or the Community Integration and Habilitation
waiver. (CIH). Common diagnoses served include those with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome,
and a number of other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Recreational Therapy has a goal to re-educate, maintain, or improve each clients personal independence
as well as functional skills used in their daily lives in order for the individual to live the best quality of
life they are able to.

Recreational Therapy sessions are tailored to the clients needs. These sessions can be 1 on 1 sessions
with therapist and client or sessions can be held with groups including other clients and therapists.
Recreational Therapy sessions can range in duration from 45 minutes up to several hours, depending on
the clients Recreational Therapy budget, provided by their specific Waiver. Sessions can be held at
clients residence or in the community, indoors and outdoors, and in mornings or evenings, all centered
around client needs and preferences.

Recreational Therapy is a great service for anyone who enjoys participating in games and activities
including, but not limited to, Board games and card games, video games, sports such as basketball, track
and field, bowling, football, baseball; and softball, exercising, arts and crafts, cooking and baking,
swimming, role playing games, sensory stimulation activities, fine and gross motor skill activities, and so
much more.

Achieving higher levels of independence as well as health and wellness for our clients is the ultimate
goal for Recreational Therapy. By participating in Recreational Therapy services, clients will be able to
learn skills, habits, coping mechanisms, etc, that they will be able to apply to their daily routines to help
not only cope, but thrive in their daily lives.

For any further questions regarding TBH Recreational Therapy Services, please contact Ron Roeble, CTRS (Director of Recreational Therapy) at (260) 702-9150.