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Recreation Therapy Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Therapy Intern

San Ramon, CA

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

This internship opportunity is nonpaid. The Intern Program Under supervision of National and State certified Recreation Therapists, the program is designed to provide challenging work experiences in ...

Recreation Therapy Intern

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

This internship opportunity is nonpaid. The Intern Program Under supervision of National and State certified Recreation Therapists, the program is designed to provide challenging work experiences in ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

Knowledge of recreation therapy interventions and practices. * Knowledge of psychology, human ... Completion of approved recreation therapist internships may substitute for the one year of required ...

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Recreation Therapy Internship information

See salary details

$14

$35

$64

How much do recreation therapy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy internship 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.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Recreation therapy internships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their early twenties. Age is generally not a barrier, and internships often value relevant skills, certifications, and a genuine interest in the field over age. Many interns start their careers later or switch fields, making 22 a suitable age for an internship in recreation therapy.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a Recreation Therapy Internship?

During a Recreation Therapy Internship, you can expect to actively participate in planning, facilitating, and evaluating therapeutic recreation activities for clients with diverse needs. Interns often work alongside certified recreation therapists, gaining exposure to creating individualized treatment plans, documenting client progress, and adapting activities for various physical or cognitive abilities. You will also collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including occupational therapists, nurses, and social workers, to ensure holistic care. This hands-on experience helps build practical skills and prepares you for professional certification.

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

AspectRecreation Therapy InternshipRecreation Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires enrollment in a related degree program; may include supervised hoursRequires certification (e.g., CTRS) and licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship sites such as hospitals, rehab centers, community programsFull-time employment in healthcare, rehabilitation, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and training phase, often unpaid or for creditProfessional role with responsibilities for patient care and program planning

The Recreation Therapy Internship is a training period for students gaining practical experience, while a Recreation Therapist is a licensed professional providing therapeutic recreation services. Internships prepare individuals for certification and full practice, which requires meeting specific credentials and gaining hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Therapy Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Therapy Intern, you generally need coursework in recreational therapy or a related field, along with a foundational understanding of therapeutic recreation principles. Familiarity with assessment tools, activity planning software, and documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience are essential soft skills for engaging clients and adapting interventions to their needs. These skills are vital because they ensure effective support for clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being during therapeutic activities.

Can counseling interns get paid?

Recreation therapy internship programs may offer stipends or hourly pay to interns, but compensation varies by organization and location. Interns often gain practical experience and may earn a small salary or academic credit, depending on the program's structure and funding. It's important to check specific internship opportunities for their compensation policies and requirements.

What is a recreation intern?

A recreation intern is a student or entry-level professional gaining practical experience in recreation therapy or leisure services. They assist with planning and implementing recreational activities, often under supervision, and may work in settings such as hospitals, community centers, or rehabilitation facilities to support clients' physical and mental well-being.

What can you do with a recreational therapy degree?

A recreation therapy internship prepares individuals to work as recreational therapists, designing and implementing activity programs to improve clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being. Graduates can find employment in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and community organizations, often requiring certification such as CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist). The role involves assessing client needs, planning therapeutic activities, and documenting progress, typically within healthcare or community settings.

What is a Recreation Therapy Internship?

A Recreation Therapy Internship is a supervised, hands-on training experience for students pursuing a career in recreational therapy. During the internship, interns work under the guidance of certified recreational therapists to develop skills in planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic recreation programs for individuals with illnesses or disabilities. The internship provides practical exposure to diverse client populations and settings, helping students meet education and certification requirements. It is an essential step for those seeking to become Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS).
What cities are hiring for Recreation Therapy Internship jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Therapy Internship 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 Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Therapy Internship jobs include:

Recreational Therapy Internship

Live at Whitestone

Greensboro, NC • On-site

Internship

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Thank you for inquiring about a Recreational Therapy internship at WhiteStone: A Masonic & Eastern Star Community!
We have a long running tradition of caring for the senior population that was established in 1912. We are a continuing care retirement community and offer the following levels of care: Independent Living, Skilled Nursing, Rehabilitation, Long Term Care, and a Memory Care unit. We currently have 4 LRT/CTRS's on staff at our community.
If you would like to apply for an internship with us, please submit an application below.
Application deadlines for each semester are as follows:
  • Spring - October 1st
  • Summer -February 1st
  • Fall - July 1st

The application process will require the following items. Please ensure that all are included prior to submitting your application.
  • Cover letter
  • Most current resume
  • Letters of reference from a minimum of three (3) references. Using at least one from each of the following categories:
    1. Professor from your Recreational Therapy Department
    2. Past or current employer or other professional reference if you have not been previously employed
    3. Character reference from someone not related to you

HOSPITALITY FOCUS:
WhiteStone fully embraces a culture of hospitality. To that end, we include the following hospitality promises as a guide for our interpersonal interactions with residents, co-workers, and guests:
  • We greet residents, employees and guests warmly, by name and with a smile.
  • We treat everyone with courteous respect.
  • We strive to anticipate resident, employee and guest needs and act accordingly.
  • We listen and respond enthusiastically in a timely manner.
  • We hold ourselves and one another accountable.
  • We embrace and value our differences.
  • We make residents, employees and guests feel important.
  • We ask "Is there anything else I can do for you?"
  • We maintain high levels of professionalism, both in conduct and appearance, at all times.
  • We pay attention to details.

WELLNESS FOCUS:
WhiteStone interns are expected to promote a healthy community culture for all residents, employees, and interns. This is a whole-person approach to health and wellness which includes eight dimensions of wellness: Emotional, Environmental, Health Services, Intellectual, Physical, Social, Spiritual and Vocational. Through these efforts we can ensure and exceed residents' wellness needs relating to their mind, body and soul, which may also have a positive effect on the employees and interns, as a result.
Criminal background, drug screen, references required. EOE