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Would I be able to begin my journey as a recreational therapist with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology? ?

Would I be able to begin my journey as a recreational therapist with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology?

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What major should I choose for my master's degree if I don't obtain it in recreational therapy?

I just moved from CA to AR and decided I want to pursue a career in recreational therapy, preferably in a mental health facility setting. I would like to pursue my master's degree as well, but the University of Arkansas (which is the most affordable option for me) doesn't have that as a major. Depending on these responses I might just pursue my masters directly in RT online somewhere else.

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Sage’s Answer

Hello, please let me know if you are still pondering this, as I am a recreational therapist and educator and would love to answer any questions you may have.
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bill’s Answer

well a degree in physical therapy would have taken you there its hard to sell just a kinesiogy degree p. t . should be where you should have been then add kinesiogy a masters degree won t get you a job
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Donna’s Answer

Look into the professional association for recreational therapist--they have lots of information on the profession and on educational programs.
atra-online.com Good luck!
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Caitlyn’s Answer

My advice to is to contact a recreational therapist and set up a 20 minute appointment, and ask them all your questions. :)
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Godfrey’s Answer

A bachelor in kinesiology basically deals with study of movements of the body and it will definitely lead to a future career in recreation therapy such in sports science which has a great need for recreation therapy and physiotherapy future career which in demand
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Sage’s Answer

Hello,
If your interested in recreational therapy I would suggest a masters in RT as this would be the best route if you want to become a CTRS which you would want as this is the standard in RT for many settings and required in some states. Talk with the masters program you are interested in as they would be able to assist and hopefully it includes a 560 hour internship as this is a requirement to be eligible to take the NCTRS exam. Good luck with your journey!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Serena,

Absolutely, you can kick-start your career as a recreational therapist with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. Although a degree in recreational therapy or a similar field is the most straightforward route to becoming a recreational therapist, a kinesiology degree can also lay a strong foundation for this profession. Kinesiology, the study of human movement and exercise, aligns well with recreational therapy, which uses physical activities and exercises to enhance individuals' well-being.

For certification as a recreational therapist, you'll typically need to finish a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a similar field, like kinesiology. You'll also need to ace the certification exam conducted by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

If you're thinking about pursuing a master’s degree in a different field due to the lack of recreational therapy as a major at the University of Arkansas, there are several related fields that could bolster your career aspirations in recreational therapy, particularly in a mental health facility setting. Some potential majors for your master’s degree could include:

Master’s in Counseling Psychology: This program will equip you with the knowledge and skills to assist individuals grappling with mental health issues, which can be advantageous when working as a recreational therapist in a mental health facility.

Master’s in Social Work: A master’s degree in social work will provide you with the necessary tools to tackle the social and emotional challenges faced by individuals, which can be invaluable when working with clients in a mental health setting.

Master’s in Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy aims to help individuals engage in meaningful activities and occupations, which aligns closely with the objectives of recreational therapy. This degree could boost your capacity to support individuals in mental health facilities through therapeutic activities.

Given your interest in pursuing your master’s degree online if required, there are credible online programs available that offer degrees in recreational therapy and related fields. These programs offer flexibility and allow you to continue your education from any location.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA): ATRA is a professional body committed to advancing the profession of recreational therapy. Their resources offer valuable information on educational requirements and career paths for aspiring recreational therapists.

National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC): NCTRC is in charge of certifying recreational therapists through the CTRS credential. Their guidelines detail the educational criteria needed to pursue certification as a recreational therapist.

University of Arkansas - Department of Health, Human Performance & Recreation: The university’s department website may provide insights into available programs related to kinesiology and other fields that could align with your career aspirations in recreational therapy.

Stay blessed!
James Constantine.
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