The Lived Experiences of Recreational Therapists Working with Adults with Serious Mental Illness in Forensic and Correctional Settings

Authors

  • Sarah Fischer Catawba College
  • Brandi Crowe Clemson University
  • Stephen Lewis Clemson University
  • C. Sherin Singleton California Department of State Hospitals–Patton
  • Jasmine Townsend Clemson University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2026-V60-I2-13137

Keywords:

Corrections, forensics, hermeneutic phenomenology, recreational therapy, serious mental illness, therapeutic recreation

Abstract

Recreational therapists work in behavioral health settings, including forensic and correctional settings, providing treatment to individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). Limited literature exists regarding the role of recreational therapy (RT) in these settings. Using hermeneutic phenomenology, semi-structured interviews (n=10) explored the lived experiences of recreational therapists working with adults with SMI in forensic and correctional settings. Qualitative findings yielded three main themes: 1) RT roles and responsibilities, 2) Facilitators for recreational therapists in these settings, and 3) Constraints for recreational therapists in these settings. Across the three main themes, 11 subthemes were identified. Study findings were compared to the American Therapeutic Recreation Association Standards of Practice (2019) and the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification Professional Knowledge Areas and Job Domains (2021) to determine (a) whether practitioners working in forensic and correctional settings were meeting professional competencies; and (b) if there were any competencies specific to RT and forensic and correctional settings that needed to be better represented in professional RT documents. Study findings, limitations, and implications for RT practice, education, and research are shared. 

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Published

2026-05-04

Issue

Vol. 60 No. 2 (2026): Whole Person Health

Section

Regular Papers

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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