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Recreation Therapy Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ellis Medicine

Recreation Therapist

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$22.28 - $32.31/hr

An associate degree in recreational therapy; training in art, drama, or music therapy; or qualifying work experience would qualify for an associate level recreation therapy position. PHYSICAL ...

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Recreation Therapy Associate information

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$14

$35

$64

How much do recreation therapy associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy associate in the United States is $35.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy Associate vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectRecreation Therapy AssociateRecreation Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree or certification in recreation therapy support rolesRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in recreation therapy or a related field, along with certification (e.g., CTRS)
Work EnvironmentAssist in recreational activities in hospitals, rehab centers, or community settingsDesign and implement therapeutic recreation programs in healthcare, mental health, or rehabilitation facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare providers, community centers, and rehab facilities as support staffEmployed as licensed professionals responsible for therapeutic planning and assessment

In summary, Recreation Therapy Associates support recreational activities under supervision, while Recreation Therapists lead and develop therapeutic programs, requiring higher education and certification.

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 set up equipment, supervise activities, and ensure safety during therapy sessions, often working in healthcare or community settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of activity planning are important for this role.

Is there a demand for recreational therapists?

Recreational therapy associates are in demand as healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, and senior living communities seek professionals to improve patient quality of life through therapeutic activities. The field is expected to grow steadily due to an aging population and increased focus on holistic health approaches. Certification and relevant skills in activity planning and patient engagement enhance job prospects.
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Recreation Therapy Associate jobs near you
Recreational Therapist - Geriatric Psychiatry Unit

Recreational Therapist - Geriatric Psychiatry Unit

Los Angeles Jewish Health

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!
Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual's needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.
The Auerbach Geriatric Psychiatry Unit at LAJH is a leading facility for short-term psychiatric care, offering compassionate, specialized treatment tailored to the unique needs of seniors through a nationally-acclaimed model of high-quality care.
The responsibilities of the Recreational Therapist include, but are not limited to:
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct initial assessments to evaluate patients' functional and social abilities, identify major interests, and set realistic recreation therapy treatment goals.
  • Develop and implement appropriate recreation therapy programs, monitoring treatment progress and adjusting as needed.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in facilitating therapeutic programs and modalities in both group and individual settings, including exercises, leisure, sensory, creative, recreational, and social activities.
  • Assess progress, update goals, and develop a therapeutic Plan of Care with ongoing recommendations based on changes in the patient's condition; present and coordinate the Plan of Care with the Interdisciplinary Team, keeping the team informed of any changes.
  • Complete medical record documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Provide recreational education to patients and their families or caregivers in accordance with recreation therapy standards.
  • Maintain competency in line with departmental, organizational, and professional standards.
  • Comply with safety policies and procedures, reporting any unsafe conditions to the AGPU leadership team and ensuring a safe environment for all.
  • Consistently meet or exceed AGPU targets for productivity and patient satisfaction.
  • Continuously seek improvement in service delivery and communication with patients.
  • Demonstrate respect for patient rights, including dignity, self-determination, access to care, confidentiality, and independence.
  • Collaborate effectively with staff peers and contractors to achieve AGPU goals and drive success.
  • Provide age-specific care for individuals over the age of 60, demonstrating proficiency in meeting the unique needs of older adults.

Experience and Skills:
Degree and Diplomas: Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Therapy or a related field, such as Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, or Music Therapy.
Certificates and Licenses: Valid California driver's license with a clean driving record. Completion of TB screening and a health examination by a hospital-designated nurse practitioner or physician is required for employment. CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) certification required upon (3) months of hire.
One of the following is strongly preferred:
  • Recreation Therapist Certified (RTC)
  • National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification: Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
  • Licensed Occupational Therapist, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
  • Certified through Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) as ATR-BC, Board Certified/Registered in Drama Therapy (RDT, RDT-P, RDT-BC)
  • Registered as a Music Therapist or Board Certified (MT-BC) in Music Therapy
  • Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC)
  • Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Verification of current CPR (BLS) and first aid training

Experience: Minimum of one year of experience facilitating therapeutic activities and recreational programs for individuals with mental health conditions or the elderly population within the past five years. Preferred: Full-time experience in a patient activities program in an acute psychiatric setting within the last 3 years.
Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!

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