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 or maintain physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life. Services are provided or directly supervised by a “Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist” (CTRS).

A recreational therapist bridges with aquatic therapy by using their expertise in adapted recreation, client motivation, and holistic care to complement and extend the benefits of aquatic interventions. Through collaboration, program design, and client-centered activities, they ensure the therapeutic experience is both effective and meaningful.