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Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ellis Medicine

Recreation Therapist

Schenectady, NY · On-site

... therapy assistants, mental health assistants, peer counselors, and volunteers. Recreations therapists conduct individual assessments with each patient and customize activities based on that ...

Ellis Medicine

Recreation Therapist

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$22.28 - $32.31/hr

... therapy assistants, mental health assistants, peer counselors, and volunteers. Recreations therapists conduct individual assessments with each patient and customize activities based on that ...

Ellis Medicine

Recreation Therapist

Schenectady, NY

... therapy assistants, mental health assistants, peer counselors, and volunteers. Recreations therapists conduct individual assessments with each patient and customize activities based on that ...

UCP Madison County

Recreation Therapy Specialist

Utica, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Core Responsibilities * Assist artists at Day Program Studio sites to create their art. * Assist ... Recreation Therapy Specialist Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all ...

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How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% 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 Technician

CommonSpirit Health

Little Rock, AR • On-site

$30K - $38K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

CommonSpirit Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 531 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

417th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

CHI St. Vincent, a regional health network serving Arkansas, is part of CommonSpirit Health. We have served Arkansas since 1888 with a history of many firsts. Together with more than 4500 coworkers, 1000 medical staff and 500 volunteers we consistently receive praise for care advancements. CommonSpirit Health was formed by the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health in 2019. With our combined resources CommonSpirit is committed to building healthy communities advocating for those who are poor and vulnerable and innovating how and where healing can happen both inside our hospitals and out in the community. CHI St. Vincent provides you with the same level of care you provide to others. We care about our team member well-being and offer benefits that complement and support your work/life balance.


As a Recreation Therapist, you'll improve patient well-being by designing therapeutic recreation programs, helping them develop skills and enhance quality of life.
Every day you'll assess needs, plan treatments, and lead engaging activities, collaborating with teams and documenting progress.
To be successful in this role, you need strong therapeutic recreation knowledge, creativity, and interpersonal skills.


Bachelor’s Degree. Specialty in a therapeutic recreation preferred. 

Certification as Recreational Therapy Assistant preferred.

Must have current BLS and CPI.

At least on year workplace experience with a mental health population preferred or internship as recreational therapy assistant.  

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