Recreational therapists, also called therapeutic recreation specialists, are health and rehabilitation professionals who provide treatment services and recreation activities to people with disabilities or illnesses.

Recreational therapists use arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings to help people with disabilities and illnesses be more independent and reduce the depression, stress, and anxiety caused by their disability or illness.

Recreational therapists complete 2 to 4 years of undergraduate work. They can be certified through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.