The British Columbia Therapeutic Recreation Association was incorporated under the Societies Act on June 17, 1991, to advance the profession of Therapeutic Recreation.

The British Columbia Therapeutic Recreation Association defines Therapeutic Recreation as a unique service that facilitates the development, maintenance, growth and expression of a satisfying and appropriate leisure lifestyle.

Therapeutic Recreation is a profession which encourages, promotes and improves the health, well being, and quality of life of consumers, within community and health care settings. This is accomplished through a continuum of services including assessment, goal setting, therapeutic interventions, leisure education and recreation participation.

The British Columbia Therapeutic Recreation Association believes that recreation, leisure and play are inherent and significant aspects of the human experience as they promote quality of life and wellness at each stage of development. Individuals of all abilities have the right to benefit from recreation and leisure.

The Association is a provincial body representing Therapeutic Recreation Professionals. It is committed to meeting the needs of its members and ensuring progressive, quality service in community and health care settings. The purposes of the association include: the promotion of the therapeutic recreation profession, the development of and adherence to professional standards, collaboration with other professional groups, and ongoing research and education.

The Association is committed to developing and supporting the Therapeutic Recreation profession.

An Analysis of Selected Ethical Issues in Therapeutic Recreation: C.D. Sylvester

Interpretation and Application of the NTRS Code of Ethics: R. A. Patterson

Professions, Ethics and Unity: V. Kesternbaum

Therapeutic Recreation Journal, Fourth Quarter, 1985

Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association

American Therapeutic Recreation Association

Art Therapy Association of British Columbia

British Columbia Association of Social Workers

Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists

Canadian Music Therapy Association

We believe in independence and freedom of choice. We strive to encourage, ensure and support the right of each individual to make his or her own choice regarding leisure and quality of life. We also recognize an individual’s right to freedom of choice in selecting Therapeutic Recreation, recreation and leisure services recommended to meet his or her identified goals.

We believe in communication based on respect, support, cooperation, collaboration, creativity and trust. We further believe that an individual’s leisure and quality of life goals are best facilitated by a positive, person centered, team approach.

We believe that all information about an individual, acquired through professional contact, must be managed in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act.

We believe in public education and advocacy regarding an individual’s right to freedom of choice, independence, leisure and quality of life. This includes public education and advocacy regarding the benefits of Therapeutic Recreation, recreation and leisure participation services in assisting individuals to achieve health and wellness, and meaningful lifestyles.

We believe in participating, facilitating and promoting education, research and related opportunities that will improve the quality and effectiveness of Therapeutic Recreation, recreation and leisure services.

Therapeutic Recreation Practitioners are committed to practicing within the scope and boundaries of Therapeutic Recreation as identified by the Standards of Practice.

We believe that Therapeutic Recreation Practitioners are responsible for their actions and to the individuals they serve, the profession of Therapeutic Recreation, their employers and society.

We believe in the importance of understanding and complying with local, provincial and federal policies governing the profession of Therapeutic Recreation.

We believe that all Therapeutic Recreation services must be delivered with due regard to the safety of all individuals involved.