Use of Evidence-Based Practices in Recreational Therapy for Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder Recovery: A Descriptive Study of Current Practices

Schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) represents a group of complex and chronic psychotic disorders affecting approximately 10.7% of the global population. Even though there is no cure for SSD, most symptoms can improve with active treatment. Effective interventions include pharmaceuticals and psychosocial treatments such as recreational therapy (RT). RT can provide effective and efficient care to individuals with SSD by grounding interventions in evidence-based practices indicated in the Mental Health Recovery Model (MHRM), as well as utilizing recommendations by the Schizophrenia Patient Outcome Research Team (PORT). A cross-sectional survey was used to identify awareness and utilization of MHRM principles and PORT recommendations in RT services for individuals with SSD. Data from 126 surveys completed by recreational therapists who currently or have previously provided treatment for individuals with SSD indicated discrepancies in awareness and utilization of MHRM principles and PORT recommendations. Implications for RT practice are discussed.