Professional Members
The Professional Members category of the Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association (CTRA) includes individuals who are actively engaged in the field of Recreation Therapy but do not currently hold the CTRS®designation. Professional members are dedicated to promoting well-being and enhancing the quality of life of individuals through recreation and leisure-based interventions while adhering to the CTRA Standards of Practice.
Professional Members Include:
- Recreation Therapists: These professionals utilize evidence-informed interventions to support individuals with disabilities, illnesses, or other limitations, working in healthcare, community, and educational settings. Their responsibilities include assessment, treatment planning, intervention implementation, and evaluation.
- Neighbouring Supportive Roles: This includes roles such as Recreation Therapy Associates, Recreation Therapy Assistants, and Recreation Therapy Coordinators who work under the guidance of Recreation Therapists to deliver therapeutic interventions, coordinate programs, and support client engagement in meaningful activities.
Qualifications of a Degree Holder Without the CTRS® Credential:
Degree holders who do not possess the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS®) credential are still eligible for Professional Membership with CTRA if they meet the following qualifications:
- Educational Requirements: Must hold a baccalaureate degree or higher in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, or a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution.
- Experience: These individuals should have relevant experience in Recreation Therapy or a related role, demonstrating knowledge and application of recreation and leisure-based interventions.
- Commitment to Standards: Though they may not hold the CTRS® credential, these professionals are expected to adhere to the CTRA Standards of Practice, including evidence-informed practice, client-centred care, and ongoing professional development.
Qualifications of a Diploma Holder:
Diploma holders in Recreation Therapy are also eligible for Professional Membership with CTRA, provided they meet the following qualifications:
- Educational Requirements: Must have completed a diploma in Recreation Therapy or Therapeutic Recreation from a recognized post-secondary institution. The diploma program should ideally offer transfer credits toward a baccalaureate degree in Recreation Therapy or a related field, facilitating a seamless transition to further education.
- To support ongoing professional development, CTRA encourages diploma holders to complete their education in programs that have formal affiliations with at least one degree-granting institution. These affiliations ensure that diploma graduates have access to a structured pathway for advancing their qualifications and eventually earning a degree.
- Role and Responsibilities: Diploma holders typically work as Recreation Therapy Assistants, Associates, or Coordinators, providing essential support to Recreation Therapists. Their role includes delivering therapeutic programs, facilitating client participation, and assisting with the implementation of treatment plans. Diploma holders do not typically conduct independent assessments or develop treatment plans but play a vital role in the execution of therapeutic activities.
- Commitment to Standards: Diploma holders are to adhere to the CTRA Standards of Practice, and contribute to client care by providing meaningful therapeutic interventions under the supervision of a Recreation Therapist.
Professional Membership Fee (2024/25):
- Without Provincial Membership $200.00
- With Provincial Membership $100.00