representing your interests

Moving the Profession Forward

ATRA is the only national organization representing the specific needs and interests of all Recreational Therapists. ATRA envisions a world where all people have access to Recreational Therapy. To make that vision a reality, it is essential for Recreational Therapists to be recognized and valued in federal, state, and local governments. ATRA is devoted to promoting and supporting the recreational therapy profession through our strategic advocacy efforts, which ensure that lawmakers and other influential organizations are aware of recreational therapy’s vital services.

August 18, 2026

Advocacy Update

ATRA’s advocacy activities are focused on bills, actions, or issues that directly impact the profession of

recreational therapy or people with disabilities. Download the July 2026 Advocacy & Legislative Update below to learn about ATRA's advocacy efforts this month.

july 18, 2027

CPT Code Survey

Please take 10 minutes to complete the Current Procedural Terminology coding survey developed by the ATRA CPT Work Group. This Work Group is exploring the current use and knowledge of recreational therapists on CPT codes and billing practices. The survey will inform the work of this group as we explore the need for recreational therapy specific coding. Click the button below to access the survey.

The survey will close at the end of July.

july 14, 2026

Advocacy Update

ATRA’s advocacy activities are focused on bills, actions, or issues that directly impact the profession of

recreational therapy or people with disabilities. Download the June 2026 Advocacy & Legislative Update below to learn about ATRA's advocacy efforts this month.

June 27, 2026

ACTION ALERT

The U.S. Department of Justice has issued a memo to states informing them that there is no legal requirement to provide home and community based services (rather than institutionalization care) for people with disabilities and older adults. Contact your state and federal legislators to express your concerns today! Read the full Action Alert at the button below. Sample email provided with the Alert.

BE PROACTIVE. BE INFORMED.

Essential Advocacy Links

Dr. Dawn DeVries, DHA, CTRS, DFRT

Director of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs

Dr. DeVries is a nationally recognized expert in federal public policy and has dedicated over a decade to tracking legislation and aiding ATRA’s public policy efforts. Her extensive research, publications, and presentations on public policy have positioned her as a leader in this space, and we are grateful for her expertise in this role.

Powered by Membership

Member support allows ATRA to have a presence at the federal and state levels, advocating for the inclusion and recognition of recreational therapy to the policymakers who can influence the acceptance and recognition of our services.