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Activity Therapist Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Activity Therapist Assistant

Lacey, WA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Join our dynamic team at South Sound Behavioral Hospital and make a difference as a Recreational Therapist Assistant ! In this role, you'll have the opportunity to plan and execute engaging activity ...

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Activity Therapist

Topeka, KS · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The Activity Therapist performs a wide range of tasks to assist individuals in regaining independence within the general population and mastery over their own recovery process. Recovery resources ...

Activity Therapist Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the ... May assist in educating and training staff on behavior management or therapeutic crisis ...

Activity Therapist

Monroe, GA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Provide assessment in psychosocial/leisure and recreational skills development/deficiency. * Assist ... Plan and implement activity therapy for assigned patient case load within the facility. * Model and ...

Activity Therapist Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the ... May assist in educating and training staff on behavior management or therapeutic crisis ...

Provide assessment in psychosocial/leisure and recreational skills development/deficiency. * Assist ... Plan and implement activity therapy for assigned patient case load within the facility. * Model and ...

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Activity Therapist Assistant information

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How much do activity therapist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity therapist assistant in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Activity Therapist Assistant vs Recreational Therapist?

AspectActivity Therapist AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, rehab centersHospitals, community centers, mental health facilities
Job RoleAssist activity therapists in implementing therapy plansDesign and implement recreational activities to improve patients' well-being

While both roles focus on enhancing patient quality of life through activities, Activity Therapist Assistants support therapists with daily tasks, whereas Recreational Therapists independently develop and lead therapeutic recreational programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Activity Therapist Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Activity Therapist Assistant, you need a background in therapeutic recreation or a related field, along with knowledge of activity planning and group facilitation. Familiarity with activity scheduling software, basic medical recordkeeping, and certifications like CPR/First Aid are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience are essential for engaging participants and adapting activities to their needs. These competencies ensure safe, effective, and enjoyable therapeutic experiences that contribute to clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

What are Activity Therapist Assistants?

Activity Therapist Assistants, also known as Recreational Therapy Assistants, work under the supervision of activity or recreational therapists to help plan, implement, and monitor therapeutic activities for patients in healthcare settings. Their goal is to support patients' physical, emotional, and social well-being through activities such as games, arts and crafts, music, and group outings. They often work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or community programs and assist in documenting patient progress and setting up equipment. Activity Therapist Assistants play a critical role in enhancing patients' quality of life and aiding in their rehabilitation and recovery.

What are some typical challenges an Activity Therapist Assistant might face when working with diverse patient populations?

Activity Therapist Assistants often work with individuals of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in adapting activities to suit each participant's unique needs. It requires creativity, patience, and strong communication skills to ensure that activities are both engaging and therapeutic for everyone involved. Additionally, managing group dynamics and motivating reluctant participants are common aspects of the role. Collaborating closely with the lead therapist and other healthcare professionals is key to overcoming these challenges and delivering effective therapeutic experiences.
What cities are hiring for Activity Therapist Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Activity Therapist Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity Therapist jobs? The most popular types of Activity Therapist jobs are:
What states have the most Activity Therapist Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Activity Therapist Assistant jobs include:

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

PURPOSE STATEMENT:  

Assist with planning, developing, organizing, implementing and directing individual and group activities/recreation within the facility.  

Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

  • Organize, lead and promote interest in recreational activities to patients and their families.  
  • Serve as a resource for new patients introducing them to other patients and staff, explaining programs and encouraging participation.  
  • Explain the rules of activities and instruct participants at a variety of skill levels. 
  • Document activity interventions and patient progress in the medical record per facility documentation requirements.  
  • Seek supervision and support when complications arise in dealing with a patient either in an individual or group setting. 
  • Enforce safety rules to prevent injury and modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.  
  • Organize and set up the equipment that is used in recreational activities.  
  • Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority. 

OTHER FUNCTIONS:  

  • Perform other functions and tasks as assigned. 
Qualifications

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.   
  • Associate's degree in activity therapy or related field preferred. 
  • Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility also preferred. 

 

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:  

  • CPR and de-escalation/restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility). 
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility. 

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

OAS01

Employment Type: FULL_TIME