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Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Therapy Assistant

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

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 ...

Alberta Health Services

$27.44 - $34.39/hr

The Recreation Therapy Assistant, supervised by the Recreation Therapist, provides services in close collaboration with the rest of the Allied Health and Nursing team. This position will assist with ...

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How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 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 assist with organizing events, supervising activities, and ensuring safety during therapy sessions, often working in healthcare or community settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of activity planning are important for this role.

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.

What skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

Recreation Therapy Assistants need strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients and team members. They should have knowledge of therapeutic activities, basic first aid, and often require certification in CPR and first aid. Organizational skills and the ability to adapt activities to individual needs are also important for success in this role.

Is becoming a PTA difficult?

Recreation Therapy Assistants and Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) are different roles; becoming a PTA requires completing an accredited associate degree program, passing the National Physical Therapy Exam, and obtaining licensure. The process involves coursework, clinical practice, and ongoing continuing education, making it a challenging but structured pathway for those interested in physical therapy. The difficulty depends on the individual's academic background and commitment to the required training and exams.

Where do PTAs get paid the most?

Recreation Therapy Assistants typically earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with robust healthcare industries. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific healthcare setting, like hospitals or rehabilitation centers.

What are Recreation Therapy Assistants?

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.
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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, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Recreation Therapy Assistant

Recreation Therapy Assistant

Reliance Community Care Partners

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Recreational Therapy Assistant | Raybrook Manor | Per Diem

We are seeking a per diem 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

Per Diem Hours:

    • Per Diem to start with possibility of increased hours
    • Possible half or full days to fill-in for current staff
    • Some weekends; 8:30am - 12:30pm Sat/Sun

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!

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