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Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Summit BHC

Recreational Therapist (PRN)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... therapy services as a component of the patient's treatment plan designed to assist the patient with ... Engages patients in individual and/or group recreation programming. Individual and group ...

Town of Cary

PROGRAM ASSISTANT II- ACCESS- TEMP

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.78/hr

In this position, you will assist and lead specialized recreation programs and events and will work ... Recreation/Recreational Therapy, Education (General, Special, or Physical) or a related field.

UNC HEALTH

Acute Care Therapy Services Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$41.45 - $59.58/hr

... and or Recreational Therapy and Child Life Therapist. The manager is responsible for staff ... Assists the Assistant Director in ensuring the collecting, analyzing, evaluating, measuring, and ...

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Recreation Therapy Assistant information

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$9

$31

$65

How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy assistant in Raleigh, NC is $31.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $60.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 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 basic certifications such as CPR and first aid. Organizational skills and the ability to work as part of a healthcare team are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Therapy jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Recreation Therapy jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings:

Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,977 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Recreational Therapist (PRN)

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Summit BHC
Health Care and Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Summit BHCexternal

Part-time

This job post has expired 5 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Recreational Therapist (PRN) | Raleigh Oaks Behavioral Health | Garner, North Carolina

About the Job:

The Activity Therapist plans, organizes, and conducts comprehensive recreational therapy services as a component of the patient's treatment plan designed to assist the patient with learning healthy coping skills, strengths, hobbies, and assist with the development of social skills/relationships. Ensures all programming is consistent with accepted standards of practice and established policies and procedures.

Roles and Responsibilities:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Performs patient assessments through patient/family interview, obtaining information on the patient's needs, skills, interests, strengths, and limitations for the development and implementation of individualized treatment plan.
  • Plans and implements an activities program including but not limited to therapeutic leisure skills and activities, leisure education and leisure awareness to provide quality activities programs that meet patient needs and interests and helps the patient achieve his/her treatment goals. Coordinates patient activities while providing a safe environment.
  • Orients patients to the activities program, explaining the benefits of the activities to the patients.
  • Engages patients in therapeutic activities such as exercise, games sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques designed to meet their specific needs. Monitors and evaluates patient's progress, interest levels, attitude, and behaviors.
  • Engages patients in individual and/or group recreation programming. Individual and group programming will fall under the five activity domains: physical, social, intellectual, creative and spiritual. Modifies activities to suit the needs of specific groups.
  • Provides patients with activity resources, supplies and equipment, as needed. Requests needed supplies and equipment in a timely manner, as needed.
  • Helps patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent.
  • Performs all documentation such as assessments and progress notes in a timely manner.
  • Helps to develop and maintain departmental resources, sharing the responsibility to monitor equipment and supplies.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Specific Discipline in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy or related field is required. Master's degree preferred.
  • One or more years' experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility is required.

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or currently in the process of obtaining national certification; OR certified in the area of specialty (Art, Dance, Music, etc.) OR clinical professional licensure (LCPC, LPC, etc.) with certification in expressive therapy area required.

WORK LOCATION:

This position is on-site at the facility and is not a remote position.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS:

None.

Why Raleigh Oaks Behavioral Health?Raleigh Oaks Behavioral Health offers a comprehensive benefit plan and a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Qualified candidates should apply by submitting a resume. Raleigh Oaks Behavioral Health is an EOE.

Veterans and military spouses are highly encouraged to apply. Summit BHC is dedicated to serving Veterans with specialized programming at our treatment centers across the country. We recognize and value the unique strengths of the military community in supporting our mission to serve those who have served.

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About Summit BHC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Summit BHC, based in Franklin, TN, USA, is a recognized leader in the field of addiction treatment and behavioral health care services. The company operates a nationwide network of treatment centers aimed at caring for individuals battling substance abuse and mental health disorders. Summit BHC was established with the mission to provide high-quality, addiction treatment and behavioral health services to those in need throughout the United States. With compassion, dignity, and respect as their core values, they endeavor to instill hope during the journey to recovery and beyond.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2013

Social media

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