Skip Navigation

What is Therapeutic Recreation

According to the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC), Therapeutic Recreation is defined as a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions that are based upon the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions. The purpose of the TR process is to improve or maintain physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life. In our rapidly changing society, Therapeutic Recreation has been designated as one of the fastest growing health care and human service occupations in the country.  

What is a CTRS?

The NCTRC define a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) as the most professionally advanced recreation therapist in the field, combining education and work experience to meet the standards of the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. Recertification is required every five years after initial certification, and is based on continuing education and professional practice or re-examination.

Therapeutic Recreation and the CTRS credential are duly recognized by The Joint Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities as well as many governmental regulatory agencies.

Services

Aquatic Therapy:

Aquatic Therapy is therapy that is done in a pool, preferably in warm therapeutic temperatures. The appropriate temperatures assist with buoyancy and resistance and are a method to restore movement and strength. The purpose is to enhance, rebuild and maintain an individual’s functional ability. A team of therapists, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Occupational Therapist and Physical Therapist work together to ensure that patient’s goals are being met.

Community Reintegration Trips:

vanCommunity Reintegration Trips are designed to educate and aid patients out in the community setting upon discharge. A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist provides patients with the appropriate knowledge base, relating to their ability. Some community outings are co-led with an Occupational Therapist and/or Physical Therapist depending on each patient’s goals. The Therapeutic Recreation Department has an accessible van particularly for these outings. Some community outings may include, but are not restricted to:

MedRahab Milestones:

The Pediatric Neuro Rehabilitation Program at MedRehab Milestones provides a comprehensive assessment and treatment of children/adolescents who have sustained an acquired brain injury. Therapeutic Recreation (TR) focuses on assisting patients and their families in becoming more independent in recreation.  TR works with patients one-on-one and in-group settings to meet the patient’s specific leisure goals.  Treatments may include use of adaptive recreation equipment, community reintegration and leisure education to increase awareness of the role leisure plays in a healthy lifestyle.
Outpatient Therapeutic Recreation Programs include the following:

Programs

The University of Michigan Dance Marathon is a student fundraising organization that supports activities for children, specifically programs that are part of the U-M Health System’s Therapeutic Recreation program. U-M Therapeutic Recreation focuses on therapies in which patients with physical and cognitive disabilities participate in activities they enjoy, such as cycling, tree climbing, art, music, sports and more. Money raised through the annual Dance Marathon provides funding for:

Resources

Volunteer Opportunities: 

Please contact the University of Michigan Health Systems Volunteer Services if you are interested in volunteering.

Student Opportunities: Field Work and Internship 

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Therapeutic Recreation Department accepts students’ for Field Work and Internship positions. Please contact Robert Wolfe, CTRS recreat@med.umich.edu or Devyn C. Baker, CTRS, CCLS devynb@med.umich.edu by phone 734-936-5491or email for more information.  

pixel