23 Voices During Recreational Therapy Month Speak Up

During Recreational Therapy Month, we asked another open-ended question as part of our January giveaway:

“During Recreational Therapy Month, what kind of recognition means the most to you?”

Once again, 23 recreational therapists responded, and their answers revealed something important:
Recreational therapists don’t just want praise—they want understanding, respect, and recognition as clinicians.

Being Seen as Healthcare Professionals Matters

One of the strongest themes was the desire to be recognized as legitimate healthcare providers—not just the “fun staff.”

One respondent shared:

“Just to be seen as a clinician and not just the ‘fun’ guys.”

Another wrote candidly:

“People say ‘you’re just the bingo lady and get to play games all day.’ There is a purpose behind everything we do.”

These responses highlight a common challenge in the field. Recreational therapy uses games, leisure, and activities—but always with clinical intent, therapeutic goals, and measurable outcomes.

Recognition starts with understanding what RT really is.

Recognition From Colleagues and Leadership Counts

Many respondents said the recognition that matters most comes from coworkers, supervisors, and leadership.

They mentioned:

• Acknowledgement from other staff

• Being thanked by coworkers

• Supervisors recognizing RT as a profession

• Leadership acknowledging the impact of RT services

As one therapist put it:

“I think having supervisors and professionals higher up acknowledge the field is the best.”

When recreational therapy is respected internally, it strengthens interdisciplinary teamwork and improves client outcomes.

Client Success Is the Most Meaningful Recognition

For many recreational therapists, the most powerful recognition comes directly from the people they serve.

Respondents shared that they feel most valued when:

• Clients say thank you

• Clients talk about the impact RT has had on their lives

• Patients succeed or discover new meaningful leisure activities

One response captured this perfectly:

“When a patient is successful and identifies an activity that can be helpful to them.”

Recreational therapy is outcome-driven, and client success is the ultimate affirmation of its value.

Appreciation Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Several therapists mentioned simple—but meaningful—forms of recognition.

Ideas included:

• Verbal praise

• Thank-you notes

• Recognition pins

• RT T-shirts

• Luncheons and gift cards

And one honest response made everyone smile:

“Not gonna lie—food.”

These gestures may seem small, but they communicate appreciation and respect.

“We Are All Therapies Wrapped Into One”

One response summed up the profession powerfully:

“RT is the best therapy. We are all therapies wrapped up in one.”

Recreational therapy integrates physical, cognitive, emotional, and social goals—using leisure as the vehicle for healing and growth. That’s why recognition matters. Not for ego—but for visibility, advocacy, and sustainability of the profession.

Recreational Therapy Is Worth Recognizing

Across all 23 responses, one message was clear:

Recreational therapists want to be:

• Seen as clinicians

• Recognized for their impact

• Valued by colleagues and leadership

• Acknowledged for improving quality of life

Recreational Therapy Month is the perfect time to do that—but recognition should extend beyond one month.

When recreational therapy is understood and valued, everyone benefits—especially the people we serve.