Eastern Kentucky University
Can Recreation Therapy Benefit Comprehensive Care?
Institution
Eastern Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Michelle Gerken
Abstract
Can Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) benefit Comprehensive Care? Kentucky is ranked 49th in mental health. Kentucky has 120 counties with comprehensive care services however, none have recreation therapy using a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. According to American Therapeutic Recreation Association, recreation therapy is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling condition, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being. Recreation therapy can decrease depression, elevate emotional well-being by creating a sense of accomplishment, increase independence, increase self-esteem and build confidence, increase motivation, improve quality of life, promote community integration, reduce anxiety and stress, reduce isolation, and strengthen mental wellbeing (Carter & Van Andel, 2011). A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist can use various interventions whether in rural or metropolitan areas to produce change in a comprehensive care clients. The question remains, how can comprehensive care facilities benefit from CTRSs assisting in the improvement of the health of the citizens of Kentucky?
Can Recreation Therapy Benefit Comprehensive Care?
Can Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) benefit Comprehensive Care? Kentucky is ranked 49th in mental health. Kentucky has 120 counties with comprehensive care services however, none have recreation therapy using a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. According to American Therapeutic Recreation Association, recreation therapy is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling condition, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being. Recreation therapy can decrease depression, elevate emotional well-being by creating a sense of accomplishment, increase independence, increase self-esteem and build confidence, increase motivation, improve quality of life, promote community integration, reduce anxiety and stress, reduce isolation, and strengthen mental wellbeing (Carter & Van Andel, 2011). A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist can use various interventions whether in rural or metropolitan areas to produce change in a comprehensive care clients. The question remains, how can comprehensive care facilities benefit from CTRSs assisting in the improvement of the health of the citizens of Kentucky?