 | Charles L. (Chuck) Killingsworth is a professor in the Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation at Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg,KS. Where can one obtain the education and training to become a qualified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist? In Kansas, there is only one degree program that prepares students to become a TR Specialist: Pittsburg State University. PSU offers the only program in the State of Kansas, but it is nationally accredited and is one of three emphases in the Recreation Degree program. For more information contact: Dr. Dan Ferguson, Professor, PSU – 620-235-4665. |
Health & Wellness
2012-04-20 15:51:45
Therapeutic recreation - series - part 2
Q: How can I become a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS)?
A: To be a CTRS, one must have completed a degree in Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation with an emphasis in TR and have passed the National Certification Exam. Pittsburg State University is the only higher education institution in Kansas that has the requisite coursework for someone to be eligible to sit for the Certification Exam.
Who may be helped through TR Services? You will find CTRSs providing services to people with physical, emotional, cognitive, and social disabilities. Depending upon the setting, often CTRSs will work together with other therapists (Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, Psychologists, Nurses, MDs, etc.) on a rehabilitation team or may provide TR services in community-based settings.
Where is TR offered? One will find CTRSs in typical health care settings such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, residential institutions, community-based advocacy agencies, as well as recreation and parks departments, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and public schools (TR is considered a “related service” that is a part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). Often the CTRS will work in collaboration with other health care disciplines such as nurses, physicians, Occupational and Physical Therapists, Speech Therapists, teachers, social workers, vocational counselors, psychologists, and art and music therapists as well as Recreation and Parks professionals.
What are the values/benefits of TR for people with disabilities and the elderly in health care and community settings? Depending upon the specific needs of the individuals being served through TR programs and services, the advantages offered include: improved mental and/or physical health, development of the positive use and enjoyment of leisure, cognitive development (critical thinking, problem solving, concrete thinking, etc.), socialization, learning new skills to enhance self-esteem, finding healthy alternatives to alcohol and drug use/abuse, relaxation, rejuvenation, assist in overcoming abilities lost through accident or illness/disease, develop greater independence, eases isolation, and many others.
In Southeast Kansas, you will find CTRSs working with individuals with disabilities and the elderly in such agencies as Crawford County Mental Health Children’s Services (the Challenger and Discovery Programs), Via Christi Regional Medical Center, the Dole VA Hospital, and several others.
