ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Recreation Therapist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

UHS

ACTIVITY THERAPIST - Intern

Chino, CA · On-site

The Recreation Therapist administers the activity assessment and develops the activity interventions on the treatment plan. "Please note that this is an unpaid internship position. While the role ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $20.68/hr

Positions in this class perform responsible recreation activity supervision involving planning and conducting activities in program areas such as sports, arts and crafts, fitness, dance, outdoor ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $20.68/hr

Positions in this class perform responsible recreation activity supervision involving planning and conducting activities in program areas such as sports, arts and crafts, fitness, dance, outdoor ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

Conduct recreation programs, after-school programs, special events, or youth sports as assigned. Chaperone at dances, excursions or special events. Monitor volunteers to ensure they are meeting city ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA · On-site

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from an assigned Recreation Programmer. May receive functional or technical supervision from an Assistant Pool Manager and/or ...

City of Montclair

Recreation Leader

Montclair, CA

$16.50 - $20.06/hr

The Recreation Leader may work up to an average of 29 hours per week, Monday - Sunday, at the Youth Center, Senior Center, sports programs or other recreation facility or programs. Hours will vary ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA · On-site

$22.79 - $25.13/hr

Under general supervision, plans, organizes, publicizes, develops, and instructs special recreation, sports, cultural, or social service programs & activities at various parks, schools, and ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA · On-site

$22.79 - $25.13/hr

Under general supervision, plans, organizes, publicizes, develops, and instructs special recreation, sports, cultural, or social service programs & activities at various parks, schools, and ...

City of Claremont

Recreation Leader

Claremont, CA

$18.39 - $22.21/hr

The Recreation Leader position is year-round and will work special events and some weekends. The mandatory special events all staff are required to work include: Village Venture; Halloween ...

City of Montclair, CA

Recreation Leader

Montclair, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.06/hr

The Recreation Leader may work up to an average of 29 hours per week, Monday - Sunday, at the Youth Center, Senior Center, sports programs or other recreation facility or programs. Hours will vary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRecreation Therapist JobsRecreation Therapist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Recreation Therapist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$36

$67

How much do recreation therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapist in Riverside, CA is $36.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $48.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation therapist?

Recreation therapists, also known as therapeutic recreation specialists, are professionals who use recreational activities as therapeutic interventions to help individuals with illnesses, disabilities, or other conditions improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They assess clients’ needs and design personalized treatment plans that may include activities like sports, arts and crafts, music, and community outings. Their goal is to enhance quality of life, promote independence, and support the rehabilitation process. Recreation therapists often work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, or community settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation therapist?

To thrive as a Recreation Therapist, you need a background in therapeutic recreation or a related field, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential. Familiarity with assessment tools, adaptive equipment, and documentation software is important for planning and tracking individualized therapy programs. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you connect with clients and tailor activities to diverse needs. These competencies ensure effective therapeutic outcomes, enhance client engagement, and support holistic well-being.

How does a recreation therapist typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

Recreation Therapists commonly work as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, often collaborating with doctors, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers. They participate in team meetings to discuss patient progress and contribute their expertise to develop comprehensive treatment plans. Regular communication ensures that recreational activities align with each patient's overall care goals, and therapists may also coordinate group sessions or therapy activities alongside other professionals. This team-based approach helps create holistic and effective interventions for patients.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectRecreation TherapistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Recreation Therapy, certification (CTRS)Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), licensure
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, community programsHospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices
Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, rehabilitationRehabilitation, orthopedics, sports medicine

Recreation Therapists focus on improving clients' quality of life through recreational activities, while Physical Therapists specialize in restoring physical function and mobility. Both roles work in healthcare settings but have different certifications and treatment approaches.

Is it hard to become a recreation therapist?

Becoming a recreation therapist typically requires earning a bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or a related field, followed by obtaining certification such as the CTRS credential. The process involves completing supervised clinical hours and passing an exam, which can take several years of education and training.

What do you do as a recreation therapist?

A recreation therapist plans and implements activities to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of clients with illnesses or disabilities. They assess individual needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and use activities like sports, arts, and community outings to promote recovery and quality of life. Certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is often required.

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Therapist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Recreation Therapist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Therapist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Therapist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Recreation Therapist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Recreation Therapist job openings:

Recreation Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,931 per year, or $37 per hour.

Recreation Therapist / Creative Arts Therapist

CARTSS, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling Corporation

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$26 - $38/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Join Our Mission to Heal Through Creativity

Position: Recreational Therapist / Creative Arts Therapist (Full-Time)

Company: CARTSS, A Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling Corporation

Location: Orange County, California

Compensation: $26.00 – $38.00 per hour (Based on experience and licensure)


At CARTSS, we believe in the power of creative expression to transform lives. As a team of dedicated professionals, we bring therapeutic arts and recreation into behavioral health spaces, helping individuals find their voice, restore their identity, and reclaim their wellbeing.

We are currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Recreational Therapist or Creative Arts Therapist to join our growing team. This is more than just a job—it’s a meaningful opportunity to be part of something bigger, to inspire change, and to support healing through the arts.


Why Join CARTSS?

For over 35 years, CARTSS has delivered more than 100,000 group therapy sessions across Orange County. Our reputation is built on excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to client-centered care. Whether through the stroke of a paintbrush, the rhythm of music, or the movement of the body, our therapists create safe, empowering spaces where transformation happens.


What You’ll Do:

  • Deliver engaging, evidence-based therapy services rooted in creative or recreational modalities.
  • Conduct thorough patient assessments and develop personalized, goal-oriented treatment plans.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support comprehensive, integrated care.
  • Maintain clear and accurate documentation of sessions, outcomes, and client progress.
  • Actively contribute ideas and expertise in team meetings and clinical discussions.
  • Adapt and grow with the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
  • Travel to various partner facilities within Orange County.


What We’re Looking For:

  • Degree in Art Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, Drama Therapy, Music Therapy, or Recreational Therapy (Bachelor’s or Master’s)
  • Active board certification from the relevant national credentialing body
  • Minimum of 1 year experience in a hospital-based behavioral health setting
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
  • Availability to work weekends and holidays
  • Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (accommodations available per applicable law)


What We Offer:

  • Health Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • Cell Phone Stipend
  • Mileage Reimbursement
  • A supportive, mission-driven work environment


Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're ready to use your creativity and clinical skills to support mental health recovery in a meaningful way, we’d love to hear from you. Join CARTSS and become part of a team that’s redefining what healing can look like.

To apply or inquire, contact:

Alison Salter

cartss.lpcc@gmail.com

Apply