Continuing education is essential for recreational therapists to maintain professional competence, meet NCTRC renewal requirements, and stay current with new practices in the field. Opportunities are available at the national, state, and local levels, as well as through online and self-study programs.
National Providers
- Online CEU courses designed for Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS®).
- Offers self-study, teleconferences, and special-topic trainings.
American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)
- Annual conference sessions, webinars, and continuing education workshops.
- Visit ATRA
National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC)
- Maintains CEU requirements and lists approved continuing education categories.
- Visit NCTRC
State and Local Providers
Many state therapeutic recreation associations host conferences and workshops that offer CEUs. Examples include:
- North Carolina Recreation Therapy Association (NCRTA)
- Ohio Recreational Therapy Association (ORTA)
- Virginia State Therapeutic Recreation Association (VSTRA)
- Florida Recreation Therapy Association (FRTA)
Local hospitals, rehabilitation centers, universities, and park & recreation departments may also host CEU workshops.
Online and Self-Study Providers
Rec Therapy Today
- Self-paced CEU courses available 24/7.
- Wide variety of topics including ethics, interventions, and professional growth.
- Explore Courses
ATRA Online Learning
- Webinars and recorded sessions available for CE credit.
Universities
- Some universities with recreational therapy programs also offer CE workshops online.
Why Continuing Education Matters
- Required for NCTRC certification renewal every five years.
- Ensures therapists stay current with best practices.
- Enhances professional skills and career opportunities.
- Strengthens the recognition of recreational therapy as a vital health profession.