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Recreational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Indiana (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 ...

Sycamore Services

Recreational Therapist

Danville, IN · On-site

As a member of our team, you will provide group and one-on-one recreational therapy sessions for adults and children with developmental disabilities based on the APIE process. You will assist in ...

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Recreational Therapy Assistant information

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$8

$31

$64

How much do recreational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapy assistant in Indiana is $31.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $59.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreational therapy assistant?

Recreational Therapy Assistants are healthcare professionals who support recreational therapists in planning, organizing, and leading activities that help improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of patients. They assist in implementing therapeutic recreation programs such as arts and crafts, games, music, and sports for individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Their work helps patients enhance their quality of life, develop social skills, and promote overall recovery. Recreational Therapy Assistants often work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community centers under the supervision of licensed recreational therapists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreational therapy assistant?

To thrive as a Recreational Therapy Assistant, you need a background in human services or therapeutic recreation, often supported by a relevant associate degree or certification. Familiarity with activity planning software, documentation systems, and adaptive equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you engage clients and support their well-being. These competencies are vital to effectively deliver therapeutic activities that enhance clients’ physical, emotional, and social health.

What are some common challenges faced by recreational therapy assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Recreational Therapy Assistants often work with diverse populations, including individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. This can make adapting activities to meet each participant’s needs a daily hurdle. Effective communication, patience, and creative problem-solving are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with licensed therapists and other healthcare staff ensures that programs are safe, inclusive, and engaging for all participants. Building strong rapport with clients also helps in understanding their preferences and motivates them to participate actively.

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

AspectRecreational Therapy AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredBachelor's degree in recreational therapy or related field; certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists in recreational activities under supervision, often in healthcare or rehab settingsDevelops and implements therapy plans independently, working directly with clients
Employer & IndustryHospitals, nursing homes, rehab centersHealthcare facilities, community programs, mental health centers

The Recreational Therapy Assistant supports recreational activities under supervision, focusing on assisting clients. The Recreational Therapist designs and manages therapy programs, requiring more advanced education and certification. Both roles work in healthcare settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How to become a recreational therapy assistant?

To become a recreational therapy assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue an associate degree or certification in recreational therapy or a related field. Relevant skills include communication, interpersonal abilities, and knowledge of therapeutic activities; some positions may require certification from a recognized organization such as the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreational Therapy jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Recreational Therapy jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Indiana?

For Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings:

Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings in Indiana 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,584 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Recreational Therapist

Sevita Health

Merrillville, IN • On-site

$56K/yr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Sevita Health rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 285 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

788th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Mentor Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here we believe every person has the right to live well, and everyone deserves to have a fulfilling career. You'll join a mission-driven team and create relationships that motivate us all every day. Join us today, and experience a career well lived.
Therapeutic Certified Recreational Therapist
Full Time Position
$56,000/per year
Merriville, IN
Do you have experience in Recreational Therapy and are looking for rewarding work in an organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others? Bring your commitment and clinical skills to a team-based workplace that puts people first.
  • Provide therapeutic recreation-based treatment program opportunities, including individual and group therapy, in a safe, effective manner to all program participants.
  • Complete assessment/evaluation in the areas of Recreational Therapy upon admission for all program participants.
  • 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 meet the needs of each program participant.
  • Communicate with the program participant, family, and funders as needed regarding participant status and need of services.
  • Remain current and compliant with federal, state, and accrediting body regulations and standards.
  • Adhere to work practices consistent with Mentor mission, policies, and procedures.
  • Adhere to code of ethics, standards of practice, and continuing education requirements of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA).
  • Procure and maintain all recreational equipment to assure safe and appropriate use by program participants and staff.
  • Advocate and educate staff, program participants, and families in the areas of recreational therapy and therapeutic recreation.
  • Maintain best practice methods through continued education coursework.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Recreational Therapy.
  • Two years of experience in a rehabilitation environment and/or work with persons with neurological and developmental deficits.
  • Certification of CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist).
  • Knowledge of rehabilitative techniques relative to recreation for persons with diverse neurological impairment.
  • Ability to interpret evaluations from various disciplines (Neuropsychology, Occupational/Speech/Physical Therapies) and understand the relevance to your practice.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations in a calm, professional manner. Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion.
  • Exceptional communication skills with an ability to establish trust and rapport quickly.
  • A good listener with an ability to empathize while still providing guidance.

Why Join Us?
  • Full compensation/benefits package for full-time employees.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid time off and holiday pay.
  • Complex work adding value to the organization's mission alongside a great team of co-workers.
  • Enjoy job security with nationwide career development and advancement opportunities.

We have meaningful work for you - come join our team - Apply Today!
Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized supports that lead to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face.
We've made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve all over the U.S.
As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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About Sevita

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized support that leads to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face. We've made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care, similar companies include Brookedale Senior Living, A New Hope, and North Star.

Industry

Nursing and residential care facilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1980

Social media

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