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Recreational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

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Recreational Therapy Assistant information

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$9

$34

$70

How much do recreational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapy assistant in Riverside, CA is $34.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $65.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Recreational Therapy jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Recreational Therapy jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,808 per year, or $34 per hour.

Family Specialist (SATS East)

SOUTH COAST COMMUNITY SERVICES

Redlands, CA • On-site

$24.50 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

South Coast Community Services takes pride in providing our staff with competitive compensation, opportunities for professional growth, access to diverse client populations, clinical autonomy, and a strong support system of seasoned employees. The Family Specialist develops a strength-based relationship with children while providing support, case management, and behavioral coaching. The Family Specialist ensures the family's voice and choice is respected and implemented throughout the course of treatment. This position intervenes with maladaptive behaviors and strives to meet the child's needs and preserve the family unit. This position works both independently and with other multidisciplinary team members.


PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: 

School Aged Treatment Program (SATS) is designed to support children and youth with a mental health disorder that interferes with their academic performance or functioning in their family, school, or community. SATS serves children and youth ages 0-21. Program referrals typically come from schools, social workers, DBH, self-referrals, etc. Services typically include therapy, case management, rehabilitation services, groups, etc. and are provided in the field (home, school, community) and by telehealth. 


 JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist the child in the home, school, and community by providing a variety of supportive and case management services, including mentoring, coaching, behavioral support, etc. 
  • Recognize and reinforce positive behaviors, activities, and skills exhibited by the youth.
  • Ensure sensitivity to family culture, values and beliefs, and operate from a family- centered, strength-based perspective.
  • Supporting youth in learning and applying the essential skills to interact harmoniously with both adults and peers in various environments.
  • Provide transportation to the youth for academic, social, recreational, and/or employment activities.
  • Maintain proficient and accurate documentation adhering to all program, contract, and payer standards. 
  • Work in coordination with the client's multidisciplinary team, including county representatives, schools, outside agencies, etc. in the development and execution of the treatment plan.
  • Develop knowledge of community resources to serve children and their families. 
  • Serve on committees, lead trainings, and represent the program at community functions as needed. 
  • Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Microsoft Outlook.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of crisis management skills and can perform such skills as necessary.
  • Ability to remain organized and manage multiple tasks at once. 
  • Able to establish and maintain appropriate rapport with children, youth, and families.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team. 
  • Knowledge of behavioral modification techniques and the child welfare system. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to drive a motor vehicle without restrictions, often in heavy traffic and frequently long distances (one hour or more) to ensure safe transport to client settings and to safely transport clients to appointments as needed.
  • Senses of vision, hearing and smell sufficient to regularly operate a motor vehicle, to visualize threats in the environment or risks to clients, and to operate safely in the field.
  • Required to occasionally lift and carry 10-20 pounds.
  • Regularly required to sit, stand, climb stairs (1 or more flights) and walk while in route to and during family visits.
  • Regularly required to sit and use computer in office settings.

Management reserves the right to add, change, delete or rescind duties or responsibilities of positions within the job classification at any time. 


Requirements

 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: Education/Experience

Tier I: AA or Bachelor's degree in human services or related field. (Bachelor's degree required for all Youth Partners).  1 year of experience in working with youth in a mental health or social service setting preferred. 

Tier II: Bachelor's degree in human services or related field.  2 years of equivalent experience.

Tier III: Bachelor's degree in human services or related field.  4 years of equivalent experience.  

Tier IV: Bachelor's degree in human services or related field.  6 years of equivalent experience. Or Master's Degree in related field.



Licensure, Registration, Certification

  1. Valid CA driver's license and proof of automobile insurance.
  2. Completion of CPR/First Aid certification within the first thirty (30) days of employment.