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Recreational Therapist Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sevita Health

Recreational Therapist

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$56K/yr

Work directly with paraprofessional staff to facilitate training and program participant growth in the areas of Recreational Therapy. * Assist in the development of the rehabilitation plan of care to ...

Sevita

Recreational Therapist

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$56K/yr

Work directly with paraprofessional staff to facilitate training and program participant growth in the areas of Recreational Therapy. * Assist in the development of the rehabilitation plan of care to ...

A Beautiful Mind Inc.

Recreational Therapist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $37/hr

... to assist clients who have medical, psychiatric, developmental disabilities, substance abuse ... The Recreational Therapist must be passionate about delivering excellent client care, exercise good ...

Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital

$25/hr

JOIN OUR TEAM AS A PRN RECREATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT! Your Work Matters How will you make a difference? Join our dynamic team at Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital and make a difference as a ...

StateJobsNY

Recreational Therapist

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$4.0K/wk

The Recreation Therapist will have continuous communication with treatment team and maintain ... PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES not limited to: • Assist homes in Staten Island to set up ...

UHS

Recreational Therapist Assistant- PRN

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$24.50 - $36.74/hr

Responsibilities Recreational Therapist Assistant-PRN Poplar Springs Hospital i s a 183 bed acute care and residential facility. For more than 30 years Poplar Springs Hospital has been guided by its ...

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Recreational Therapist Assistant information

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How much do recreational therapist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapist 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 is a recreational therapist assistant?

Recreational Therapist Assistants work under the supervision of certified recreational therapists to help plan, implement, and monitor recreational activities for individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Their goal is to support clients in improving their physical, emotional, and social well-being through activities like arts and crafts, sports, music, and games. They also assist with documenting client progress and ensuring a safe, supportive environment during activities.

What does a recreational therapist assistant do?

As a recreational therapist assistant, you support a primary therapist while providing therapy and care for clients or patients. You may help set up and run a therapeutic activity or treatment, examine the behavior of patients, help implement clinical treatments, or conduct a psychological assessment to gain a better understanding of the unique needs of each patient. Recreational therapist assistants often specialize in specific groups that use recreational therapy, such as children or veterans, and which group you work with may impact your career opportunities and path. Most recreational therapist assistants work regular hours, but employers may occasionally ask you to work overtime to help address particularly complex or difficult cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreational therapist assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreational Therapist Assistant, you need knowledge of therapeutic recreation methods, basic health care practices, and typically a relevant associate degree or certification. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and documentation systems is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creativity help you engage clients and support the lead therapist effectively. These skills are crucial for delivering safe, effective, and meaningful therapeutic activities that enhance clients' well-being.

How does a recreational therapist assistant typically collaborate with therapists and other healthcare team members?

As a Recreational Therapist Assistant, you’ll work closely under the supervision of certified recreational therapists, supporting the design and implementation of therapeutic activities for patients. You’ll often communicate with nurses, physical therapists, and social workers to coordinate care, share observations, and adjust activity plans based on patient progress. This collaborative environment helps ensure that recreational interventions are safely integrated into each patient’s overall treatment plan. Regular team meetings and report sharing are common and provide opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Recreational Therapist Assistant vs Recreational Therapist?

AspectRecreational Therapist AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists in therapeutic activities under supervision, in healthcare or rehab settingsDevelops and implements therapy plans independently, in hospitals, rehab centers, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare facilities, assisted living, and rehab centersWorks in similar settings, often with more responsibility for planning and decision-making

The main difference between a Recreational Therapist Assistant and a Recreational Therapist lies in their level of responsibility and required education. The assistant supports therapy activities under supervision, while the therapist independently develops and manages treatment plans. Both roles are vital in healthcare settings focused on improving patient well-being through recreational activities.

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Recreational Therapist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapist Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% 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.

Recreational Therapist Assistant (PRN)

Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital

Marysville, WA • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Recreational Therapist Assistant (PRN)

Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital - Marysville, WA 98271

Overview

Salary Range $25.00 - $25.00 Hourly Position Type Per Diem Education Level High School

Description

JOIN OUR TEAM AS A PRN RECREATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT!

Your Work Matters How will you make a difference?

Join our dynamic team at Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital and make a difference as a Recreational Therapist Assistant! In this role, you'll have the opportunity to plan and execute engaging activity services for our patients, contributing directly to their treatment goals and overall well-being. As a valued member of our interdisciplinary team, you'll provide continuous care, interaction, and positive role modeling to patients, fostering an environment conducive to healing and growth. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact in behavioral healthcare, we want to hear from you!

Your Experience Matters What we're looking for:

  • Education & Licensure: HS Graduation, GED, or higher. Completion of Activity Director Certified (ADC) course preferred.
  • Experience: One (1) year of related experience, including leading groups, with a knowledge of psychiatric patient care techniques with understanding of mental illness, preferred.
  • Additional Skill Requirements : Successful completion of CPR Certification and successful completion of CPI prior to assisting with a restraining procedure and within 30 days of employment. May be required to work overtime and flexible hours.

Your Care Matters What we provide for our team:

  • Cafeteria on site + one free meal per day
  • Employee engagement events
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee recognition program
  • Free parking

Disclaimer: Benefits are subject to change at the discretion of Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital.

Compensation:

The expected compensation for this role is $25 per hour. We're eager to engage with all qualified candidates, and consideration will be provided to experience and skill level. Join us as our Recreational Therapist Assistant.

Qualifications

Get to know us Outstanding Care, Compassionate People, Unparalleled Service

Welcome to Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital (SPBH), a premier healthcare provider in Marysville, WA, setting the gold standard for excellence in mental health and addiction treatment support. Located in Marysville, WA, SPBH offers a full continuum of care, including inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services and specialized, evidence-based programs for all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

At SPBH, the community is an integral part of our team, fostering collaboration to build an efficient, comprehensive, and seamless continuum of care. We take pride in offering dynamic, challenging, and highly rewarding positions. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with a team of experts, ensuring our patients receive personalized services that guide them towards achieving their treatment goals.

Join us in providing exceptional care and contributing to the well-being of individuals and families in need, and be a part of the transformative healthcare experience at Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital.

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE POSITIVE I.M.P.A.C.T.S.

Individuals Maintaining Positive Attitude and Commitment To Service

Apply