An Advocate for Recreation Therapists Since 1988

Welcome To The
New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania
Therapeutic Recreation Association

The New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania Therapeutic Recreation Association serves as an advocate for therapeutic recreation to promote health and well-being of the public through service, education, research, and the development of standards of professional practice. Membership primarily consists of Recreational Therapists, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, Activity Professionals, and students.

News and Events

  • 24th Annual Fall Conference November 7-8, 2022 *Hybrid Conference*  November 7th-Windsor BallroomNovember 8-Virtual  Read More »
  • Attention registration renewal date is approaching. Please visit the membership page to renew your …  Read More »

What is Recreational Therapy

Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.

The purpose of the RT process is to improve or maintain physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life. Services are provided or directly supervised by a “Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist” (CTRS).

 

Membership

Members of the New Jersey / Eastern PA Recreational Therapeutic Association receive a number of benefits that aid in their career. Benefits include:

  • NJ/EPA TRA Newsletter and Email News Blasts
  • Reduced Registration Fees for
  • Conferences/Workshops
  • Student & Professional Scholarships our Annual Conference
  • Opportunities to recognize your peers through our awards program
  • Networking/Professional Support
  • And more