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How much do entry level recreational therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level recreational therapist in the United States is $35.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level recreational therapist do?

An entry level recreational therapist helps plan and lead recreational activities for individuals with disabilities or illnesses to improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They may work under supervision to assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and facilitate activities such as arts and crafts, games, sports, or outings. Their goal is to use recreational activities as therapeutic tools to help clients gain skills, enhance their quality of life, and increase independence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level recreational therapist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Recreational Therapist, you need a bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field, knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles, and basic patient assessment skills. Familiarity with therapy planning software, documentation systems, and, in some cases, eligibility for CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist) certification is beneficial. Strong interpersonal communication, creativity, and patience help build rapport with clients and adapt activities to individual needs. These skills are crucial for developing effective therapeutic programs that enhance clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level recreational therapists in their first year on the job?

Entry level recreational therapists often face challenges such as adapting to diverse client needs, learning to develop effective treatment plans, and managing group dynamics within therapy sessions. Building rapport with clients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can be initially daunting, but these skills improve with experience. Additionally, new therapists may need to balance administrative duties with hands-on client interaction while receiving ongoing supervision and feedback.

What is the difference between Entry Level Recreational Therapist vs Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Recreational TherapistCertified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related fieldBachelor's degree in recreation therapy plus CTRS certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, community programsSimilar settings, often with more specialized roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare and community organizationsStandard credential for recreation therapy roles in healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Recreational Therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree and may not yet be certified, working under supervision. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) have completed additional certification requirements, demonstrating a higher level of expertise. Both roles work in similar environments, but CTRS credentialing often leads to more advanced opportunities and recognition in the industry.

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Entry Level Recreational Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Recreational Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,740 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Inpatient Unit Recreation Specialist

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Bremerton, WA

$29.88 - $37.34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Kitsap Mental Health Services rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Activities and Recreation Specialist - Inpatient Units

Advanced-Level Hiring Range:$29.88 - $37.34 Per Hour

Entry-Level Hiring Range: $25.19 - $30.86 Per Hour

$2,000 Sign-On Bonus*

Benefits at a Glance

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision
  • Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 holidays (pro-rated for part-time)
  • Fully Paid YMCA Membership for you and eligible family members
  • Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance
  • Student Loan Assistance & Professional Development
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Company Contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet Insurance
  • Free Wellness App (2MorrowHealth)
  • Collaborative, Supportive Team Environment

Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is seeking a Recreational Therapist to support individuals receiving care in our Adult and Youth Inpatient Units. This role uses recreational therapy to help clients build skills, strengthen social connections, and support progress toward treatment goals. You'll be part of a team focused on creating a safe and therapeutic environment for recovery. If you enjoy helping people grow through meaningful activities and skill development, we welcome your application.


Primary Responsibilities:

  • Assesses, plans, administers, evaluates and provides safe therapeutic recreation therapy for the clients on the Youth Inpatient Unit
  • Attends and participates in treatment team meetings, case consultations, and training sessions.
  • Instructs, assists, and provides skill development and overall supervision to clients regarding daily living activities, life skills, social skills, vocational skills, and leisure/recreation skills and activities.
  • Initiates services to the clients through implementation of a therapeutic recreation activity.
  • Plans and leads educational and information groups for residents.
  • Ensures the care, safety, and supervision of clients.
  • Documents the provision of care and the clinical and behavioral observations of residents in the progress notes.

Entry-Level Minimum Qualifications:

Education- Associates Degree in Human Services, Psychology or related field.

Experience- Minimum of three years of job-related experience.

LICENSURE: Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration (can be obtained after hire).

Advanced-Level Minimum Qualifications:

Education-Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy.

Experience- Minimum of two years of job-related experience.

LICENSURE: Certified as a Recreation Therapist (CTRS), WA State Registered Recreation Therapist, Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration (can be obtained after hire).

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in residential or inpatient treatment setting.

Experience with new program development and implementation.

*A sign-on bonus is a form of compensation for a new employee in addition to their established salary. Bonus amounts are prorated by FTE, and any changes to FTE before all bonus installments are paid may alter the total payout.

Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or anyaspect whichmakes someone unique.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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