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Dance Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Recreation

Selma, CA · On-site

$93K - $114K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Dance Therapist: A dance therapist is a person who is registered or eligible for registration as a dance therapist by the American Dance Therapy Association * Music Therapist: A music therapist is a ...

$29.43 - $45.39/hr

Document dance/movement therapy interventions in patient charts in a timely and thorough manner, including initial assessments and progress notes. * Demonstrate an understanding of the appropriate ...

Recreation Therapist

Middleton, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Experiential Therapist/Recreation Therapist New Employee Retention Bonus*$5,000.00 retention bonus ... These include, but are not limited to, adventure-based and environmental activities, sports, dance ...

Recreation Therapist

Oconomowoc, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Experiential Therapist/Recreation Therapist will have a working knowledge of a psychosocial ... These include, but are not limited to, adventure-based and environmental activities, sports, dance ...

Recreation Therapist

Oconomowoc, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Experiential Therapist/Recreation Therapist will have a working knowledge of a psychosocial ... These include, but are not limited to, adventure-based and environmental activities, sports, dance ...

Recreation Therapist

Cedar, WI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Experiential Therapist/Recreation Therapist will have a working knowledge of a psychosocial ... These include, but are not limited to, adventure-based and environmental activities, sports, dance ...

Showing results 21-40

Dance Therapist information

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$9

$30

$62

How much do dance therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance therapist in the United States is $30.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dance therapist?

Dance therapists are mental health professionals who use movement and dance as therapeutic tools to support the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social well-being of individuals. They are trained to help clients express feelings, improve body awareness, reduce stress, and enhance self-esteem through creative movement. Dance therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practice, often collaborating with other healthcare providers. Their approach is grounded in the belief that movement reflects emotional states and can be used to promote healing and personal growth.

What does a dance therapist do?

As a dance therapist, your job is to use movement therapy techniques to help improve the physical, mental, and emotional health of your patient. Dance therapists may work one-on-one or in larger groups. You can also work with a client of any age. One of the most important parts of this job is selecting dances and techniques based on the physical needs and abilities of participants. This job is similar to physical therapy but focuses more on the mental and emotional aspects of treatment and how physical behaviors can impact spiritual wellness. Dance therapists occasionally specialize in working with specific groups, such as seniors or children with disabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dance therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dance Therapist, you need a background in dance/movement therapy, a relevant bachelor's or master's degree, and often registration with organizations like the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA). Familiarity with therapeutic techniques, assessment tools, and clinical documentation systems is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence help Dance Therapists connect with clients and tailor interventions effectively. These skills ensure that therapists can facilitate healing, foster self-expression, and promote well-being in diverse populations.

What are some common challenges dance therapists face when working with diverse client populations?

Dance Therapists often work with clients from varied backgrounds, ages, and with a range of physical or emotional needs. Adapting movement-based interventions to be culturally sensitive and accessible for individuals with different abilities can be challenging. Therapists must remain flexible, continually educate themselves on new techniques, and foster strong communication skills to build trust and rapport with each client. Collaborating with other health professionals, such as psychologists or physical therapists, is also essential to provide comprehensive care and ensure the best outcomes for clients.

What is the difference between Dance Therapist vs Art Therapist?

AspectDance TherapistArt Therapist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in dance/movement therapy, certification from ADTAMaster's degree in art therapy, certification from AATA
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, mental health centersHospitals, clinics, schools, mental health centers
Industry UsageUsed in mental health, rehabilitation, educationUsed in mental health, rehabilitation, education

Dance Therapists and Art Therapists both work in therapeutic settings, often within healthcare or educational environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Dance Therapists use movement and dance to promote healing, while Art Therapists utilize visual arts. Both require advanced degrees and certifications, and they serve similar populations, making them common points of comparison for those exploring creative therapy careers.

What cities are hiring for Dance Therapist jobs?

Cities with the most Dance Therapist job openings:

What states have the most Dance Therapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dance Therapist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dance Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,551 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Recreation and Rehabilitation Therapist - Multiple Locations Across CA (San Jose, Fresno Area, Napa

Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc.

Angwin, CA

$35 - $55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Crestwood Behavioral Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Are you looking for a meaningful role in behavioral health and have the desire to work with an organization that puts people first? If you have a passion for helping others along their recovery journey, then we invite you to join our Crestwood family!

For more than 50+ years Crestwood has been committed to creating innovative recovery programs and developing compassionate communities that support each client in their journey. Our model of care focuses on a personal and self-directed process that empowers the people we serve and helps them to develop the skills to thrive!

Title: Recreation and Rehabilitation Therapist – Multiple Locations Across CA (San Jose, Fresno Area, Napa Valley)

Job Duties: The Recreation and Rehabilitation Therapist plans, coordinates, and implements a therapeutic recreation/activities program on a regular basis to meet the individual client's needs and interests.

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Schedule: Full Time, In-Person

Qualifications:

  • Must be registered or eligible for registration as an Occupational therapist, Music therapist, Dance therapist, Art therapist, or Recreation therapist.
    • Art Therapist: Art therapist means a person who is registered or eligible for registration as an art therapist with the American Art Therapy Association
    • Dance Therapist: A dance therapist is a person who is registered or eligible for registration as a dance therapist by the American Dance Therapy Association
    • Music Therapist: A music therapist is a person who has a bachelor's degree in music therapy and who is registered or eligible for registration as a music therapist by the National Association for Music Therapy
    • Occupational Therapist: An occupational therapist is a person who is registered or who is eligible for registration as an occupational therapist by the American Occupational Therapy Association
  • Must have two (2) years' experience in a social or recreational program within the past five (5) years, one year of which was full-time in a client activities program in a mental health setting or bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation who is registered or eligible for registration as a recreation therapist by the California Board of Parks and Recreation Certification or the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.
  • California driver's license.
  • Current CPR certification.

Crestwood Offers Comprehensive Benefits Packages to Full-Time Employees, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Sick Leave Buy Back
  • 401(k) Retirement
  • Scholarship Program
  • Qualifying Supervision for BBS Associates
  • Competitive Pay
  • Paid Holidays
  • Service Awards
  • Jury Duty Pay

About the Campus: Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc. is proud to be the leading provider of mental health services in California for more than 50+ years. We provide a complete range of behavioral healthcare services, from traditional psychiatric services to innovative recovery programs, geared towards community reintegration, building resiliency, and developing compassionate communities.

To learn more about B Certified Corporations, visit www.bcorp.com

The salary range listed below represents the minimum and maximum base pay per hour at the time of posting. Final salary offered to the candidate selected for the position will be based on factors including but not limited to candidate's skills, experience, licensure, and program acuity.
Pay Range:
$35—$55 USD

It's About Growth! Our employees are our most valuable assets.

Did you know that at Crestwood you can gain experience at one of California's leading behavioral health service providers? We deliver industry leading education and training that allows our team members to succeed and continue to grow their careers with Crestwood.

Check out our Career Page to learn more about being a part the Crestwood Family and the benefits available. https://workatcrestwood.com/

Crestwood is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion, equity and diversity. We embrace all differences and are fully committed to fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. We also take affirmative action to offer employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to ability during the application or recruiting process, please talk with your hiring contact/recruiter or send a request to HR@CBHI.net.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please review this link to provide information on how we collect and use your data.

Crestwood is required to participate in the E-Verify program. To learn more, please see: E-Verify Participation, Right to Work notices, or visit www.e-verify.gov.


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About Crestwood Behavioral Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc., based in Sacramento, CA, US, is a recognized leader in the field of Behavioral Health. The company’s main offering includes a broad spectrum of services for adults with mental health needs, including campus-based services, day treatment programs, and community integration services. Established more than 50 years ago, Crestwood has a rich history grounded in a relentless pursuit of optimism, bravery, and an unwavering commitment to creating recovery-focused programs that uphold the rights and dignity of individuals living with mental health issues. Their mission is to provide a continuum of services that empower individuals living with mental health issues to realize recovery.

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sacramento, CA, US

Year founded

1968

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