ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

Westminster Commons

Activities Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health ... Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program * Must be willing ...

Westminster Commons

Activities Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health ... Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program * Must be willing ...

Westminster Commons

Activities Director

Atlanta, GA

$18.25 - $25/hr

Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health ... Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program * Must be willing ...

Westminster Commons

Activities Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health ... Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program * Must be willing ...

Westminster Commons

Activities Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health ... Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program * Must be willing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRecreation Therapy JobsRecreation Therapy Assistant JobsRecreation Therapy Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

Recreation Therapy Assistant information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$9

$31

$65

How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy assistant in Decatur, GA is $31.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $61.01 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.
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 job categories do people searching Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings:
Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,265 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Activities Director

Westminster Commons

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

This position is eligible for $2K Sign-on Bonus
SUMMARY

Plan, organize and direct the implementation and evaluation of activity programming for the residents. Assure that personalized, individual activity plans are developed and implemented meeting the interests, physical, mental and psychosocial needs for all residents.

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS
  • Two (2) years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years in a health care setting.
  • Completion and certificate of a State approved Activity Therapy Training Program
  • Must be willing to participate in continuing education and have an understanding of health related problems and the normal aging process.
  • Must work well with all residents in the facility and their families.
  • Certificate or diploma as Therapeutic Recreation Specialist preferred.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This list is subject to individual facility policies, procedures and practices, which may require additional duties and responsibilities.

  • Plans, executes and evaluates a diversified activity program which meets the
    varied needs and interests of individual residents.
  • Supervises, trains and evaluates Activities Assistants, volunteers, etc.
  • Assures that each resident's activity program is consistent with Plan of Care
    established by resident and interdisciplinary team.
  • Maintains accurate and timely documentation according to Medicare/Medicaid
    certification standards.
  • Participates in resident care conferences.
  • Identifies and uses community resources consistent with interests and needs of residents.
  • Coordinates staff relating to the activity program giving appropriate directions and feedback.
  • Recruits community volunteers for resident involvement activities; coordinate
    scheduling and supervise their activities.
  • Makes daily rounds regarding opinions/feelings/comfort with service and care
    provided by Activity Department.
  • Plans and/or attends department specific and facility-wide in-service education.
  • Maintains professional development relationship with local area professional
    groups in similar field.
  • Accomplishes all tasks and responsibilities of Activity Services in compliance with state licensure department, federal Medicaid and Medicare certification and other state and federal licensure and certification body rules and regulations.
    Maintains current knowledge and understanding of the same.
  • Respects and maintains residents' dignity, individuality, privacy and
    confidentiality, knowledgeable of Residents' Rights.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Apply