Quebec's recreation intervention model in health care and social services and its implications for the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification's standards

Abstract

Many concerns emerge related to the use of therapeutic recreation certification through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) in Quebec (Canada). In addition to linguistic issues, Quebec stands out by the way it approaches certain social issues. As such, it is relevant to contribute to this special edition of the World Leisure Journal and explain the situation in Quebec. Indeed, the way the profession developed in Quebec is different, in some respects, from the model brought forward by the NCTRC's certification, especially for the components regarding the therapeutic use of leisure. A leisure-orientation model provided by a general recreation professional (recreologist or leisure technician) is a preferred model to help people with special needs in Quebec. The major strength of this model is certainly the fact that it mainly focuses on valuing the individual's potential and well-being rather than on reducing his or her incapacities. This paper gives a brief historical overview of the recreation profession in the field of health in Quebec and describes how it shapes the role of recreation practitioners. It then covers the strengths and weaknesses of the recreation and health model brought forward in Quebec. Finally, the development of an eventual adhesion to a national certification is explored.