The Specialization Area Designation on the CTRS credential is used to indicate recreational therapy experience and focused continuing education within a specified area of practice.
National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification® (NCTRC®) awards recognition of advanced knowledge and skill in seven specialized areas of recreational therapy practice.
The areas of specialization are broadly defined as follows:
NCTRC offers Specialization Area Designation as a direct extension of the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist® (CTRS) credential for individuals who qualify. Certificants can apply for Specialization Area Designation at the time of recertification or up to 12 months after recertifying. Once obtained, the Specialization Area Designation is noted on the CTRSs current certification to indicate experience and focused continuing education in that area.
Advanced knowledge and skill in recreational therapy can be acquired through several methods including education programs, conferences focused upon specific skills or diagnostic populations, and the successful acquisition of expert skills that have been mastered over a substantial period of practice.
NCTRC pre-approves continuing education session content for CTRSs, activity professionals, and others to fulfill recertification and licensing requirements. Some CE session content includes specialized knowledge and skills that are distinctive to specific populations and service sectors, meeting focused continuing education for CTRSs interested in applying to NCTRC for Specialization Area Designation.
As healthcare evolves, the technical knowledge and skills required to practice successfully in a complex service environment increases significantly. Beyond the broad range of essential professional skills, there is an increasing expectation to develop specialized knowledge and skills that are distinctive to specific populations and service sectors. Specialization is well recognized within professional practice and has become the norm within the health and human service delivery system today.
The CTRS designation of specialization provides a higher level of assurance and verification that the practitioner has committed to advancing their knowledge and skills to support provision of quality services to the consumer. Recreational therapy professionals who acquire a higher level of education, knowledge, and advanced skills in specific areas of specialization stand out among their peers. NCTRC provides digital badges to those who earn Specialization Area Designation to help CTRSs communicate their earned credentials to peers, employers, recruiters, and professional networks.
Continue to invest in yourself, apply for Specialization Area Designation, and gain a superior edge in today’s fast growing and demanding job market.
