Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CTRS?
CTRS stands for Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.
"Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.” – From the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.
Can anyone sign up for your programs?
We are a specialized recreation center. So, anyone with a diagnosis that has a City of Norfolk address and is over the age of 5 is welcome to email us or call us at 757-441-1764 to set up an assessment and learn more about our registration process.
I have a Norfolk Recreation Card, is your facility included in my membership?
No, our recreation center is not an open recreation facility; however, we are always open within our posted office hours if you need a restroom break or water or want to come learn more about our specialized center.
What population do you serve most?
The Therapeutic Recreation Center is an inclusive recreation center in the City of Norfolk which serves people ages 6+ with varying abilities/disabilities ranging from physical, cognitive, intellectual, developmental, mental health disorders and behavioral health disorders. We most commonly serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our programs.
Do you have programs for children?
Yes! We do offer some programs for youth during the school year, but most of our youth programs take place in the summer when school is out of session. Make sure to look closely at the age requirements for each class in our seasonal booklet of classes for more specific information on what programs are available for children.
Can I sign up for transportation for any class?
No. Our transportation is only offered for specific classes and only transports participants to or from a City of Norfolk address. These classes are highlighted in blue on our seasonal class booklet. Please see the transportation page for more information on this topic.
Are you a day program?
No. The Norfolk Therapeutic Recreation Center is a specialized recreation center offering goal oriented and individualized programming tailored to the specific needs of each participant. Our programs range from 45 minutes to day-long outings (12 hours max), scheduled throughout the week. Please see our program booklet for more information regarding times and dates.
How long do programs run?
Our programs are broken into four (4) ten-week sessions each year, with the exception of December. Programs vary from one-time outings to 5- or 10-week-long programs on various dates and times throughout the week.
Is my assessment expired? If so, what next?
We encourage participants and their families to keep track of their annual assessment due date. Assessments are required annually with both participant and (if necessary) guardian or care provider present. PLEASE do not wait until the week of registration. We encourage you to get your assessments completed at least one month before its expiration.
Are animals allowed?
Service animals are welcome in any City of Norfolk facility. Emotional support animals and household pets are not recognized under the ADA as a service animal.