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Recreation Internship Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Life Enrichment Internship

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This internship provides a meaningful opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in aging services, therapeutic recreation, wellness, or a related field. Interns will ...

Social Services Internship

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This internship provides a meaningful opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in aging services, therapeutic recreation, wellness, or a related field. Interns will actively participate ...

Experience in working with psychiatric patients through internships or work experience Preferred Licenses and Certifications * Therapeutic Recreation, Art Therapy, Music Therapy or related field ...

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Recreation Internship information

What is a recreation internship?

A Recreation Internship is a temporary, supervised work experience designed for students or recent graduates interested in the field of recreation, parks, or leisure services. Interns typically assist with planning, organizing, and leading recreational programs and activities for various populations, such as youth, seniors, or special needs groups. The internship provides practical, hands-on experience and helps individuals develop skills in leadership, communication, and program management. Many recreation internships are offered by community centers, parks departments, camps, or non-profit organizations.

What types of projects or responsibilities can I expect during a recreation internship?

As a Recreation Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with the planning and execution of recreational programs, helping coordinate events, and supporting daily operations of recreation facilities. Interns often work closely with experienced staff, gaining exposure to program evaluation, participant engagement, and administrative tasks like scheduling or marketing activities. This role provides valuable experience in teamwork, communication, and leadership, all within a supportive learning environment. It's a great opportunity to develop practical skills that are highly regarded in the recreation and leisure industry.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Intern, you generally need coursework or experience in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field, along with a passion for community engagement. Familiarity with program management software, scheduling tools, and basic first aid certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability help interns connect with diverse participants and handle dynamic situations. These competencies ensure effective program delivery, participant safety, and positive community experiences.

What is the difference between Recreation Internship vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation InternshipRecreation Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework; some positions may prefer related courseworkBachelor’s degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, temporary, or seasonal settings such as community centers, parks, or campsFull-time, professional role managing programs and staff in community or recreational facilities
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in parks and recreation departments, community organizations, or campsMunicipal parks and recreation departments, private recreation companies, or non-profits

Recreation Internships provide hands-on experience for students or entry-level individuals interested in recreation fields, often with a focus on learning and supporting existing programs. Recreation Coordinators are full-time professionals responsible for planning, managing, and overseeing recreational activities and staff. While internships serve as a stepping stone, coordinators hold more responsibility and require relevant education and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Recreation Internship jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Recreation Internship job openings:

Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist

Neuropsychiatric Hospitals

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

About Us
Healing Body and Mind.
NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals is a national leader in behavioral healthcare, specializing in patients with acute psychiatric and complex medical needs. Our hospitals use an interdisciplinary, multi-specialty approach that delivers high-quality, patient-centered care when it's needed most.
With locations in Indiana, Michigan, Texas, and Arizona, we're expanding access to our unique model of care nationwide. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of patients and families every day
Overview
NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals is looking for a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist at our Indianapolis, IN location. NPH is the national leader in providing medical and neurobehavioral care to patients in acute psychiatric distress. You will be joining a team of rock star staff who provide exceptional, patient-centered care and understand that our patients are always our number one priority! The Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist will provide goal-directed interventions to promote the independent physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning of disabled persons by enhancing current skills and facilitating the establishment of new skills for daily living and functioning.
Benefits of joining NPH
  • Competitive pay rate
  • Flexible schedule and hours
  • On the job training

Responsibilities
  • Observe, analyze, and record patients' participation, reactions, and progress during treatment sessions, modifying treatment programs as needed.
  • Develop treatment plan to meet needs of patient, based on patient's initial admission assessment, patient interests and objectives of therapy.
  • Encourage patients with special needs and circumstances to acquire new skills and get involved in health-promoting leisure activities, such as sports, games, arts and crafts, and horticulture.
  • Counsel and encourage patients to develop leisure activities.
  • Confer with members of treatment team to plan and evaluate therapy programs.
  • Conduct group therapy sessions to improve patients' mental and physical well-being.
  • Instruct patient in activities and techniques, such as sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques, designed to meet their specific physical or psychological needs.
  • Obtain information from medical records, medical staff, family members and the patients themselves to assess patients' capabilities, needs and interests.
  • Displays concern and initiative. Is resourceful and calm in emergencies.
  • Is prompt and efficient with minimal absences.
  • Cooperates and maintains good rapport with nursing staff, medical staff, other departments, and visitors.
  • Seeks guidance and remains knowledgeable of, and complies with, all applicable federal and state laws, as well as hospital polices that apply to assigned duties.
  • Complies with hospital expectations regarding ethical behavior and standards of conduct.
  • Complies with federal and hospital requirements in the areas of protected health information and patient privacy.
  • Assist with other tasks as directed by supervisor.
  • Supervise the activity program, staff, plans, etc.
  • Understands and adheres to NPH's compliance standards as they appear in NPH's Corporate Compliance Policy, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy.
  • Keeps abreast of all pertinent federal, state and hospital regulations, laws and policies as they presently exist and as they change or are modified.
  • Ensures that the staff are trained and evaluated on their knowledge of and adherence to compliance policies and procedures specific to their jobs.

Qualifications
  • Graduate of a baccalaureate degree program with a specialization in therapeutic recreation, including the completion of a supervised internship as part of the program.
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification required.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) and Handle with Care (HWC) certification required, to be obtained during orientation.
  • Completion of a supervised internship required.
  • Additional experience in a behavioral health setting preferred.
  • Has demonstrated competence to practice as a therapeutic recreation specialist and/or recreation therapist.
  • Able to lead and motivate people.
  • Good planning and organizational skills.
  • Creative and resourceful in their therapy techniques.
  • Good computer skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills.