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Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intern

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Perfect for students majoring in Recreational Therapy, Rehab & Human Services. Responsibilities may include: * Assisting with recreational activities * Collaborating with the Therapeutic Recreation ...

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Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern information

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How much do entry level recreational therapy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level recreational therapy intern in the United States is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level recreational therapy intern?

An Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern is a student or recent graduate gaining practical experience under supervision in the field of recreational therapy. Their responsibilities often include assisting with planning and leading therapeutic activities, supporting patient documentation, and learning how to assess and meet the needs of clients with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. This internship helps students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional skills, and prepare for certification or licensure as a recreational therapist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level recreational therapy intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern, you need foundational knowledge in therapeutic recreation, basic patient care, and typically a background in psychology, health sciences, or related coursework. Familiarity with activity planning, assessment tools, and documentation systems such as electronic medical records is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability help interns connect with diverse clients and contribute to supportive team environments. These skills are essential for delivering effective and engaging therapy interventions that improve client well-being and support clinical goals.

What is the difference between Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern vs Entry Level Recreational Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Recreational Therapy InternEntry Level Recreational Therapist
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree; may require internship approvalRequires certification or licensure as a recreational therapist
Work EnvironmentSupervised clinical or community settings, often as part of trainingIndependent or team-based therapeutic settings, providing direct patient care
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, rehab centers, community programs, often as a traineeHealthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, schools, providing therapy services

In summary, an Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern is a trainee gaining practical experience under supervision, often during or after their studies. An Entry Level Recreational Therapist has completed necessary certifications and provides direct therapeutic services to clients. The internship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed recreational therapist.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level recreational therapy intern?

As an Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern, you can expect to assist with planning and leading therapeutic activities such as arts and crafts, music, games, and group outings tailored to clients' needs. You'll observe and help document clients' responses, assist with setting up equipment or materials, and support licensed therapists in executing treatment plans. Collaboration is a regular part of the role, as you'll work closely with other interns, therapists, and sometimes family members to ensure a positive and supportive environment for clients. These experiences provide valuable exposure to the day-to-day operations of recreational therapy settings.
More about Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreational Therapy Intern jobs? The most popular types of Recreational Therapy Intern jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Recreational Therapy Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,721 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Music Therapy Internship

Hudson Valley Hospice

Poughkeepsie, NY โ€ข On-site

$4.0K/mo

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

The primary focus of the Music Therapy Intern is to provide music therapy services to hospice patients and their families, under the supervision of a Board-Certified, Licensed Creative Arts Therapist, in accordance with the interdisciplinary plan of care. The Music Therapy Intern assesses patients/families, devises and implements an individualized treatment plan. Music Therapy Interns also support special programming, education, and marketing efforts to promote the agency's mission.
AMTA National Roster Internship, Start Dates: January or July Application Deadlines: For January, September 30; for July, March 31. University Internship, Start Date: August Application Deadline: April 30.
INTERN EXPECTATIONS

  • Visits hospice patients and families in homes, nursing homes, hospitals and Hospice House settings
  • Works with patients of all ages and with a range of diagnoses (including dementia, COPD, cancer, heart disease, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke/TBI, among others)
  • Documents all clinical patient visits, phone calls, etc. in the electronic medical record (EMR)
  • Works well both independently and within an interdisciplinary group (IDG)
  • Has a soothing singing voice, functional guitar and piano skills, and knowledge of other recreational instruments
  • Plays a variety of songs and genres for different cultures and age groups
  • Uses appropriate treatment techniques based on developmental stages and clinical need
  • Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing
  • Handles time well and has good organizational skills
  • Effectively manages an average case load as determined appropriate by the Internship Supervisor
  • Has reliable transportation, valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
  • Can carry up to twenty-five pounds of equipment and/or materials.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Has completed all prerequisite clinical education and training requirements for the AMTA National Roster Internship or University Internship position, from an AMTA accredited university or its equivalent, as required by the AMTA
  • Verification from Academic Advisor that applicant is eligible to begin the internship on chosen start date
Step 1 - Complete Internship Application
Step 2 - Supporting Documentation (include with application)
  • Current resume including education, music, and work background
  • Please include your major instrument
Step 3 - Letters of Recommendation (please arrange for the writers to send these directly to us, prior to interview )
  • Letter of Recommendation from your University academic advisor submitted by mail or e-mail (on University letterhead), along with a verification letter stating that you will have met all necessary requirements to begin the internship by your proposed start date
  • Second Letter of Recommendation from a professor, clinical site supervisor, employer, or anyone familiar with your MT work
Step 4 - Interview and Music Audition
Once the materials listed above are received, an interview and music audition can be scheduled. If you would like to arrange an in-person visit (recommended), you can do both then. If you are unable to visit, we can schedule a Zoom interview. To prepare for your interview/audition, please prepare six songs (one from each of the categories below). Three of the songs should be accompanied by the guitar and three songs should be accompanied by piano.
Song categories:
  • Older Adults
  • Language other than English
  • Children's bereavement (for a child who has lost a loved one)
  • The Beatles
  • Your own choice (song that speaks to you: how would you use it in a hospice setting?)
  • Inspirational theme
Additional Information
  • This is a competitive internship; therefore it is recommended that the application and all materials are submitted in a timely manner for best consideration.
  • The internship pays a stipend of $4000 (paid monthly over 6 months) plus mileage and toll reimbursement.
  • The Hudson Valley is a beautiful place to live and work, located just 90 miles north of NYC.

Please let me know if you have any further questions, and if I can assist you in any way during the application process.
Submit your letters of recommendation to:
(Ms.) Terry Blaine, LCAT, M.S., MT-BC
Hospice and Palliative Care Music Therapist
Music Therapy Coordinator
Hudson Valley Hospice
374 Violet Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
blainet@hvhospice.org