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Recreation Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UHS

MGR - RECREATION THERAPY

Reno, NV · On-site

The Recreational Therapist Manager will oversee a team of therapists and activity specialists, ensuring the delivery of innovative, evidence-based therapeutic activities that promote physical ...

UHS

MGR - RECREATION THERAPY

Reno, NV · On-site

$80K - $121K/yr

The Recreational Therapist Manager will oversee a team of therapists and activity specialists, ensuring the delivery of innovative, evidence-based therapeutic activities that promote physical ...

UHS

MGR - RECREATION THERAPY

Reno, NV

The Recreational Therapist Manager will oversee a team of therapists and activity specialists, ensuring the delivery of innovative, evidence-based therapeutic activities that promote physical ...

Youth Villages

Recreation Therapy Specialist

Memphis, TN · On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

Our Recreation Therapy Specialists work with young people in a residential setting to develop their abilities to interact with others in a team and increase their self-esteem. An ideal Recreation ...

Youthvillages

Recreation Therapy Specialist

Memphis, TN

$50K - $57K/yr

Our Recreation Therapy Specialists work with young people in a residential setting to develop their abilities to interact with others in a team and increase their self-esteem. An ideal Recreation ...

Youth Villages

Recreation Therapy Specialist

Memphis, TN · On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

Our Recreation Therapy Specialists work with young people in a residential setting to develop their abilities to interact with others in a team and increase their self-esteem. An ideal Recreation ...

Sunset

Recreation Therapy Assistant

Jenison, MI · On-site

$14.15/hr

Description As a Recreation Therapy Assistant, you will be responsible for helping develop programs designed to improve the quality of life of our residents. You'll develop and execute activity ...

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Recreation Therapy information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do recreation therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy in the United States is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is recreation therapy?

Recreation therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a healthcare profession that uses recreational activities to help individuals with disabilities or illnesses improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Recreation therapists design and implement interventions such as games, sports, arts and crafts, music, and community outings tailored to each client's needs. The goal is to enhance patients' functioning, promote independence, and improve their quality of life. They work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and community agencies.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Therapist, you need a background in therapeutic recreation, a degree in recreation therapy or a related field, and often Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credentials. Familiarity with assessment tools, adaptive equipment, and documentation systems is essential for planning and evaluating therapy programs. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help build rapport with clients and adapt activities to varying needs. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing effective therapy interventions that enhance client well-being and foster social, emotional, and physical development.

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

Recreation therapists often work with clients of varying ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds, which can present challenges in tailoring activities to meet individual needs and preferences. Adapting therapeutic interventions to accommodate physical, cognitive, or emotional limitations while ensuring everyone feels included requires creativity and flexibility. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, such as nurses, social workers, and family members, are essential for developing comprehensive care plans and achieving positive outcomes.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy vs Recreational Therapist?

AspectRecreation TherapyRecreational Therapist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CTRS), relevant degreesCertification (e.g., CTRS), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, community programsHospitals, rehab centers, community programs
Industry UsageUsed to describe the field and servicesJob title for professionals providing services

Recreation Therapy refers to the field and its practices, while Recreational Therapist is the professional role within that field. Both share similar credentials and work environments, with the term Recreation Therapy describing the discipline and Recreational Therapist being the practitioner delivering the services.

Are there jobs in recreation therapy?

Yes, recreation therapy offers employment opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and community programs. Professionals in this field typically need a bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or a related field and may require certification such as CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist).

How do I become a recreation therapist?

To become a recreation therapist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or a related field. Certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is often required or preferred, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can help establish competence in designing and implementing recreational activities for clients with various needs.

What are the career paths in recreation therapy?

Recreation therapists can pursue various career paths including working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior centers, and community programs. They may advance to supervisory roles, specialize in areas like pediatric or mental health therapy, or obtain certifications to enhance their qualifications. Opportunities also exist in research, program development, and administrative positions within the field.

Where do recreation therapists make the most money?

Recreation therapists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas and certain states. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the work setting, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or senior care facilities.
More about Recreation Therapy jobs

What cities are hiring for Recreation Therapy jobs?

Cities with the most Recreation Therapy job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Therapy jobs?

The most popular types of Recreation Therapy jobs are:

What states have the most Recreation Therapy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Recreation Therapy jobs include:

Recreation Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,898 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Recreation Therapy - Assistant Recreation Therapy

stcam

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Make a Meaningful Difference—One Activity at a Time

St. Camillus is seeking a Recreation Therapy Assistant who is passionate about enriching the lives of older adults. In this rewarding role, you’ll help plan and lead engaging therapeutic activities that promote connection, independence, and overall quality of life for our residents—both in group settings and through one-on-one interactions.

If you are creative, compassionate, and interested in healthcare or aging services, we encourage you to apply.

What You’ll Do

As a Recreation Therapy Assistant, you will:

  • Plan, organize, and implement engaging recreational and therapeutic activities.
  • Support residents during activities by providing clear instructions and hands-on assistance.
  • Encourage participation through personal outreach, flyers, and special events.
  • Document resident participation, behaviors, and one-on-one visits.
  • Assist new residents with transition and inclusion into community life.
  • Facilitate community outings, special events, and themed activities.
  • Provide wheelchair transportation and ambulation support as needed.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to meet residents’ changing needs.
  • Assist with monthly activity calendars, room set-ups, decorations, and entertainment coordination.
  • Ensure resident safety, dignity, confidentiality, and adherence to organizational policies.
What We’re Looking For

Minimum Qualifications & Skills:

  • Individuals pursuing a healthcare-related degree or those passionate about serving older adults are encouraged to apply.
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Creativity and enthusiasm for designing engaging activities.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to document clearly and accurately.
  • Basic computer skills (email, flyers, internet browsing).
  • Knowledge of community recreation resources is a plus.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Ability to safely perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and occasional daytime hours.
Why Join St. Camillus?
  • Be part of a mission-driven organization that values dignity, compassion, and community.
  • Gain hands-on experience in healthcare and therapeutic recreation.
  • Make a direct, positive impact on residents’ daily lives.
  • Work alongside dedicated professionals in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Hours: Every other Weekend/ Two Evenings with opportunity to pick up hours

Apply