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Recreation Therapy Aide Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

New

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

New

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA

$18 - $21.40/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

New

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

Emory Healthcare

Rehab Therapy Aide

Decatur, GA

$18 - $21.40/hr

Under the direct supervision of a Physical, Occupational, Recreation or Speech Therapist, assists with the provision of basic therapeutic services and other patient related activities; performs ...

New

UHS

Mental Health Aide -Part Time 2nd shift

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Work closely with education, recreation therapy, BCBA, RBT * Assist the teacher in teacher in the classroom as an instructional Aide. * Must be able to work every other weekends * Must be able to ...

UHS

Mental Health Aide 32 hr weekend

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Work closely with education, recreation therapy, BCBA, RBT * Assist the teacher in teacher in the classroom as an instructional Aide. * Must be able to work every other weekends * Must be able to ...

UHS

Mental Health Tech ( 2:45pm-11:15pm)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Work closely with education, recreation therapy, BCBA, RBT * Assist the teacher in teacher in the classroom as an instructional Aide. * Must be able to work every other weekend * Must be able to pass ...

UHS

Mental Health Tech (2:45pm- 11:15pm) Evening

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Work closely with education, recreation therapy, BCBA, RBT * Assist the teacher in teacher in the classroom as an instructional Aide. * Must be able to work every other weekend * Must be able to pass ...

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Recreation Therapy Aide information

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How much do recreation therapy aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy aide in Decatur, GA is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do recreational therapy assistants do?

Recreational therapy assistants support recreational therapists by helping plan and facilitate activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being for clients. They may set up equipment, supervise activities, and ensure safety during therapy sessions, often working in healthcare or community settings. Basic knowledge of activity planning and good communication skills are important for this role.

What are common challenges for recreation aides?

Recreation therapy aides often face challenges such as managing diverse patient needs and maintaining safety during activities. They must adapt activities for individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities and work in fast-paced environments, requiring strong communication and organizational skills.

What are Recreation Therapy Aides?

Recreation Therapy Aides are supportive healthcare professionals who assist recreational therapists in planning and implementing therapeutic activities for individuals with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities. They help organize and lead activities such as games, arts and crafts, and outings designed to improve clients' well-being and social skills. Recreation Therapy Aides also help monitor patients' progress, set up equipment, and ensure a safe and engaging environment. Their work is essential in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and other care settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Therapy Aide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Therapy Aide, you need a background in therapeutic recreation, basic healthcare knowledge, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and documentation systems is valuable in this role. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help build rapport with clients and adapt activities to diverse abilities. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, engaging, and effective therapeutic programs that enhance clients’ well-being.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy Aide vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectRecreation Therapy AideRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in recreational activities under supervision, often in healthcare or senior living settingsDevelops and implements therapy plans, working independently with clients in healthcare, rehab, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers, senior living facilitiesHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, community health organizations

The main difference is that Recreation Therapy Aides assist with activities under supervision, while Recreation Therapists design and lead therapy programs independently. Aides typically require less formal education, whereas Therapists need specialized degrees and certifications. Both roles work in similar environments, but Therapists have a broader scope of practice and responsibility.

Where do recreational therapists make the most money?

Recreational therapists tend to earn higher salaries in healthcare settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers, especially in regions with higher living costs. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills, but geographic location remains a significant factor influencing income levels for this role.

What skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

Recreation Therapy Aides need strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients. They should have basic knowledge of therapeutic activities, patience, and the ability to work as part of a team. Certifications in CPR and first aid are often required or preferred, along with a good understanding of safety procedures in recreational settings.

What are some common challenges Recreation Therapy Aides face when supporting diverse patient needs?

Recreation Therapy Aides often work with individuals of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in adapting activities to meet each person's unique needs. Balancing group dynamics while ensuring everyone is engaged and included requires creativity and flexibility. Additionally, aides must collaborate closely with therapists, nurses, and family members to monitor progress and adjust interventions, making strong communication skills essential. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding, as it directly impacts participants' quality of life and well-being.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Therapy jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Recreation Therapy jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Recreation Therapy Aide jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Recreation Therapy Aide job openings:
Recreation Therapy Aide jobs near you
PRN Recreation Therapist - SHARE Military Initiative

PRN Recreation Therapist - SHARE Military Initiative

Shepherd Center

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted yesterday

Shepherd Center rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 1,020 rated hospitals

Job description

About Shepherd Center
With five decades of experience, Shepherd Center provides world-class clinical care, research, and family support for people experiencing the most complex conditions, including spinal cord and brain injuries, multi-trauma, traumatic amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and pain. An elite center ranked by U.S. News as one of the nation's top hospitals for rehabilitation, Shepherd Center is also recognized as both Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems. Shepherd is the only rehabilitation facility in the nation with an intensive care unit on-site, allowing us to care for the most complex patients and begin the rehabilitation process sooner. Shepherd Center treats thousands of patients annually with unmatched expertise and unwavering compassion to help them begin again.
Shepherd Center's culture is one of hope, humor, and hard work. You will enjoy career growth, strong relationships with co-workers, strong support from leadership, and fun activities that have kept over 12% of staff members working at Shepherd for more than 20 years.
Shepherd Center's SHARE Military Initiative has provided evidence-based rehabilitation for military veterans, service members, and first responders who are ready to accept help and healing for their daily struggle with traumatic brain injuries and mental health concerns
The Recreation Therapist is responsible for treating each patient (adolescent, adult, geriatric) assigned, determining short-term and long-term goals in conjunction with the patient and other Shepherd Center team members, and developing and implementing a comprehensive treatment program to meet these goals with moderate direct supervision. This hands-on and rewarding role gives the Recreation Therapist the opportunity to interact directly with patients, making an impact on their recovery through the rehabilitation continuum to their home community environment. This position is staffed within the full Recreation Therapy Program continuum on an as needed basis.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The Recreation Therapist is to plan, direct, and coordinate recreation leisure-based treatments to patients. A Recreation Therapist will plan and implement programming of events to meet the needs of patients and appropriate community members with disabilities. Job Functions:
  • Schedules patients for individual specialist meetings, classes, outings, and in-center activities on a weekly basis.
  • Schedule and implement individual patient meetings on leisure education and skills are completed on a weekly basis, or more often if appropriate.
  • Determines equipment needs in consultation with patient support system and other appropriate team members. Uses evaluation findings to determine appropriate discharge planning needs.
  • Develops and implements treatment program to further patient's functional skills, which is then periodically reassessed and adapted.
  • Provides patient and/or family with resources for use after discharge.
  • Facilitates community reintegration outings in accordance with policies and procedures for 1:1, group and/or team outings.
  • Prepares for and effectively teaches classes and lectures, conveying appropriate information and facilitating participant involvement to patients, family, and caregivers.
  • Participates in and modifies individual family training according to the needs of patient/family.
  • Plan, implement, and recap inhouse and community programming throughout the year.
  • Recognizes and discusses "age" developmental differences between adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients, communicates effectively with all patients, and relates this to all aspects of treatment.
  • Assigns duties to supportive personnel (students, volunteers, aides, techs, nursing, therapists) and supervises performance.
  • May float to inpatient, post-acute, or outpatient programs to provide patient evaluation or treatment sessions as needed.
  • Practices proper safety techniques in accordance with Center and departmental policies and procedures. Responsible for the reporting of employee/patient/visitor injuries or accidents, or other safety issues to the supervisor and in the occurrence notification system.
  • Monitors and ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements, organizational standards, and policies and procedures related to area of responsibility. Identifies potential risk areas within area of responsibility and supports problem resolution process.

REQUIRED MINIMUM EDUCATION
  • Bachelor's degree from accredited program in Therapeutic Recreation.

REQUIRED MINIMUM CERTIFICATION
  • Certification by NCTRC as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. (CTRS)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) within 90 days of start date.

REQUIRED MINIMUM EXPERIENCE
  • Two years of experience within the field of Recreation Therapy.

REQUIRED MINIMUM SKILLS
  • Two years of experience within the field of Recreation Therapy.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Current Georgia driver's license and insurable by Shepherd Center's auto insurance policy preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Use body, tools, or special devices to safely, effectively, and efficiently to move, guide, or place patients.
  • Involves some latitude for judgement with regards to precision attained and the selection of what adaptive device(s) to utilize.

WORKING CONDITION
  • Normal patient care environment. Some potential for exposure to blood and body fluids. Some potential exposure to infectious viruses.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified.

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