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Recreation Therapy Assistant

Wauwatosa, WI

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 ...

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How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy assistant in the United States is $32.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need to be a recreation therapy assistant?

A recreation therapy assistant needs strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients. Knowledge of therapeutic activities, patience, and the ability to follow treatment plans are essential, along with relevant certifications or training in recreation therapy or related fields. Physical stamina and the ability to work in various settings are also important.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy Assistant vs Recreational Therapist?

AspectRecreation Therapy AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, long-term care facilitiesSimilar settings, with more independent clinical responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, rehab centers, community programsHealthcare facilities, mental health centers, rehabilitation clinics
Job FocusAssist in implementing recreational activities under supervisionDesign and lead therapeutic recreation programs independently

Recreation Therapy Assistants support recreational activities under supervision, focusing on assisting with programs. Recreational Therapists develop and lead therapeutic recreation plans, often requiring higher credentials. Both roles work in healthcare settings, but the Therapist has more independent responsibilities and advanced qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Therapy Assistant, you need a background in recreation, therapy, or a related field, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and client documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you engage clients and adapt activities to diverse needs. These capabilities are crucial for promoting client well-being, enhancing quality of life, and supporting therapeutic goals.

What are some common challenges recreation therapy assistants face when working with diverse participant groups?

Recreation Therapy Assistants often work with individuals who have a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and needs, which can present challenges in planning and adapting activities to be inclusive and engaging for everyone. Balancing the physical, emotional, and cognitive limitations of participants while maintaining a positive and motivating environment requires strong communication and creative problem-solving skills. Additionally, assistants may need to collaborate closely with therapists, caregivers, and other staff to ensure activities align with therapeutic goals, which can require flexibility and teamwork.

How to become a recreation therapy assistant?

To become a recreation therapy assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in recreation therapy or a related field. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the state or facility, and strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of therapeutic activities are important for success in this role.

What is a recreation therapy assistant?

Recreation Therapy Assistants are professionals who help plan, implement, and oversee recreational activities for individuals with physical, mental, or emotional challenges. They work under the supervision of Recreation Therapists to support patients’ rehabilitation, improve their quality of life, and promote socialization. Their tasks may include organizing games, arts and crafts, outings, and fitness programs tailored to participants’ needs. Recreation Therapy Assistants typically work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community facilities.
What cities are hiring for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Therapy Assistant 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 Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs include:
Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Recreation Therapy Assistant

Reliance Community Care Partners

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Recreational Therapy Assistant | Raybrook Manor | Full Time

We are seeking a Full Time, 32 hours per week, Recreational Therapy Assistant who will be responsible for embracing and implementing the Vibrant Living programming model specifically focusing on Social Engagement and Intellectual Discovery with our residents on the skilled nursing unit on our Raybrook Campus. Our Vibrant Living model supports whole person wellness for residents to enjoy their highest level of functioning and quality of life by ensuring meaningful opportunities.

What will you do as a Recreational Therapy Assistant?

    • Work closely with the Recreational Therapist who plans the activities
    • Help to implement a variety of purposeful social and intellectual opportunities that will meet the many different needs, backgrounds, style and preferences of the Residents
    • Give the Residents the ability to find fulfillment out of the activity/event that appeals to them the most
    • Foster relationships with residents that will help them grow, regardless of their age or physical and cognitive abilities

Requirements:

    • Experience helpful, but not required
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • A minimum of 2 years of event planning experience is valued
    • Experience working with older adult populations is also highly valued
    • Experience or Knowledge of Individuals experiencing Dementia
    • Able to be flexible & spontaneous when working with those with Dementia
    • Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with all levels of staff, residents, and families is important - this requires courtesy, tact, respect, and patience in all situations

Schedule:

    • Monday - Thursday
    • 8:30am - 5:00pm

If this opportunity calls to you, please apply on-line atwww.hollandhome.org and click on the Careers tab at the top of the page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Apply