Integrating AI into Recreational Therapy Practice

Authors

  • Susan Purrington Connecticut College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2026-V60-I2-13457

Keywords:

Artifical intelligence, assessment, documentation, evaluation, generative AI, implementation, planning, recreational therapy, therapeutic recreation

Abstract

This paper, based on a presentation delivered at the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) annual conference on October 20, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas (Purrington, 2025), examines the integration of Generative AI (GenAI) technologies within recreational therapy’s process of assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and documentation (APIED or TR/RT process). The paper defines two forms of AI relevant to current practice: Generative AI and Agentic AI. Drawing from informal conversations with professionals and related literature, the article illustrates specific applications where AI can enhance each phase of the APIED process while emphasizing that clinical decision-making must remain with the professional. Example cases are provided within each aspect of the TR/RT process. Challenges discussed include confidentiality protections, critical evaluation of AI-generated content, and equity in access to AI technologies. The paper concludes with a series of questions to address future practice and research as AI is integrated into the APIED process.

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Published

2026-05-04

Issue

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

Section

Invited Paper

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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