Providing a holistic approach through recreational therapy

Active healing

Recreational therapy services facilitate full and optimal involvement in community life. Recreational therapy provides a holistic approach toward health and wellness by addressing the social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual needs of teens in short-term and long-term residential programs.

When a teen experiences trauma, they may need specialized, supportive interventions to improve or restore optimal levels of health and wellness. This person-centered treatment is facilitated by a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) and offered at our Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, Michigan, locations. 

How does recreational therapy at Bethany work?

Teens in our residential programs work with a recreational therapist to develop individualized goals. A treatment plan is developed by a certified recreational therapist to determine long- and short-term goals and objectives. Using various interventions, group and individual sessions are tailored to the client’s needs, goals, and strengths. Progress and engagement in these sessions are documented to evaluate the client’s growth and change in treatment.

FAQs about recreational therapy

Art and music 
Horticulture 
Therapeutic use of humor 
Community integration 
Gratitude-based interventions 
Leisure education 
Animal-assisted therapy 
Adventure therapy 
Anger management 
Stress management 
Sensory-based interventions
Physical activity and sports

: Research shows recreational therapy has a significant positive impact on health, wellness, and quality of life. Impact on clients includes improvement in their ability to regulate emotions, access community resources, and increase self-esteem and self-confidence. Introducing teens to new resources can also increase their awareness and engagement in positive leisure and recreation pursuits.

: The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential is obtained from an accredited university through a bachelor’s degree or higher. A clinical internship and national competency exam regulated by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is also required. A CTRS also follows the recreational therapy APIED Process, which is a systematic process that includes assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and documentation.

: If you are interested in participating in a one-of-a-kind internship experience, please submit your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to our Bethany recreational therapy team at MIRecreationalTherapy@bethany.org.

Deadlines for applications: Summer (April – August) Applications accepted through November 1 Interviewing the second and third weeks of November

Fall (August – December) Applications accepted through February 1 Interviewing the second and third weeks of February

*Fieldwork placement opportunities are available on a case-by-case basis.

Providing a holistic approach through recreational therapy