Introduction: Families having children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were the most negatively affected group in terms of depression, anxiety, somatic complaints, burnout and quality of life (QoL). It is known that Therapeutic Recreation Programs have positive effects on depression symptoms and quality of life of individuals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a one-week therapeutic recreation program on the symptoms of depression and QoL of mothers who have children with ASD.