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Recreational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Amae Health

Clinical Care Coordinator

Orange, CA · On-site

Our integrated model brings psychiatry, therapy, primary care, dietitians, and community support ... Member Engagement & Support - Facilitate groups, arts and crafts, and recreational activities to ...

Amae Health

Clinical Care Coordinator

Orange, CA

Our integrated model brings psychiatry, therapy, primary care, dietitians, and community support ... Member Engagement & Support - Facilitate groups, arts and crafts, and recreational activities to ...

Amae Health

Clinical Care Coordinator

Orange, CA · On-site

Our integrated model brings psychiatry, therapy, primary care, dietitians, and community support ... Member Engagement & Support - Facilitate groups, arts and crafts, and recreational activities to ...

Quiet Capital

Clinical Care Coordinator

Orange, CA · On-site

$59.24/hr

Our integrated model brings psychiatry, therapy, primary care, dietitians, and community support ... Member Engagement & Support - Facilitate groups, arts and crafts, and recreational activities to ...

Nhcare

PACE Day Center Manager(Riverside)

Riverside, CA · On-site

$96 - $141/hr

... therapists and care coordinators to help them maintain good health and a good quality of life. Our ... The role also includes oversight of CNA, PCA, and Recreation (Activities) services. This position ...

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Recreational Therapy Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$34

$70

How much do recreational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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 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:

Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA 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 $70,808 per year, or $34 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

HAALO Innovations, LLC

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Supervise residents and implement individual and behavior plans to ensure their health, safety, and well-being.

  • Assist residents with daily living activities, including hygiene, meal preparation, and community outings.

  • Monitor and document residents' health, behavior, and medication administration, and report any changes to management.

Job description

HAALO Innovations, LLC.

JOB SUMMARY: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) will be responsible for the health, safety, and well-being of individuals residing within the HAALO Innovations Residential Facility Program. The DSP will be responsible for a variety of duties related to the overall care of individuals with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviors. This includes direct supervision of individuals and implementation of individual plans and behavior plans. DSP's are required to follow HAALO's policies, Title 22, and Title 17 regulations. The DSP must be trustworthy, dependable, patient, and a dedicated team member. All DSPs follow the Facility Manager's lead and report directly to the Administrator.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Must be available to work various hours starting at 5:00 am Monday to Friday, and at 6:00 am on Saturday and Sunday: some shifts may be graveyard (ALL SHIFTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE). Some morning shifts are split shifts during the weekdays. Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following additional assignments, projects, and duties:
  • Adheres to the Mission and Statement of Purpose of HAALO Innovations, LLC.
  • Respect residents' rights and advocate accordingly. Ensure all residents and staff demonstrate respect and promote choices for all residents.
  • Escort residents to exterior medical/psych/ therapy appointments. Ensure that all proper documentation is completed, signed, and returned.
  • Promote residents' interaction with family members and socialization in the community.
  • Act as an appropriate role model and support residents in using appropriate language, appearance, dress, manners, and respect.
  • Promotes participation and involvement in community outings.
  • Support residents in their daily living and assist them with their daily living skills (i.e., including but not limited to cooking, homemaking, banking, shopping, etc.).
  • Assist residents with their hygiene, including but not limited to incontinence needs, bathing, dental care, trimming and filing nails, etc.
  • Assist the Administrator, Manager, or co-workers in developing resident objectives and behavior plans when assigned.
  • Assist with planning and implementing recreational activities with supervisory approval.
  • Assist in planning healthy, weekly menus according to residents' dietary needs and preparing daily meals.
  • Make recommendations regarding the health and well-being of residents to HAALO's Manager and Administrator.
  • Administer, monitor, and document resident medications according to HAALO policies and procedures.
  • Observe and document residents for any changes in behavior, health, or mental health status that may have resulted from medication, environment, or life events, etc.
  • Phone in and pick up prescriptions as needed. Examine all new prescription packaging and labeling to ensure the correct medication is received and conduct a pill count.
  • Operate and maintain household appliances and tools, agency cell phones, fire extinguishers, and other minor residential equipment in a conscientious manner.
  • Perform housekeeping duties with residents, including, but not limited to, vacuuming, dusting, sweeping, mopping, dishwashing, cleaning of bathrooms, and laundry, etc.
  • Provide safe and secure transportation services to residents following all HAALO policies and procedures. Always adhere to all traffic laws and public safety standards.
  • Must comply with HAALO's policy when managing confidential information for HAALO Innovations and the individuals who receive care.
  • Comply with CCL Regulations Title 22 and Regional Regulations Title 17 policy and procedures.
  • Must be able to type on a PC and maintain documentation with all aspects of HAALO residents' paperwork.
  • Understand and follow HAALO policies and procedures in the event of an emergency.
  • Follow shift change procedures at the beginning and end of each shift worked.
  • Attend all mandatory meetings, including in-house staff meetings and required training.
  • Participate in the ID Team Meetings in coordinating resident data, IPP/ISP for semi-annual and annual reviews.
  • Perform other job-related duties and complete projects, as they may be assigned by administrative personnel.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
  • High School diploma/GED required.
  • Must remain professional with HAALO's residents, staff, consultants, and affiliates of HAALO, including verbally, in writing, and via phone.
  • Must be able to read and write in English with proficiency.
  • Must be able to complete all required training in the required allotted time successfully.
  • Must be able to multitask and manage work time efficiently.
  • Computer Knowledge and skills (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
  • Must be CPR and First Aid certified (within two months of hire).
  • The ability to work flexible hours: weekdays & weekends, A.M. and P.M. shifts.
  • Must be at least 20 years of age or older.
  • Must be fingerprinted, pass DOJ/FBI background, and be able to maintain a background clearance. Must pass a health screening, physical exam, and TB clearance.
  • Must possess a valid California Class C Driver's License to operate an agency or personal vehicle.
  • Must be insured or able to be insurable by the agency.
  • Must possess and maintain a clean 24-month driving record (no major traffic violations and not more than two minor traffic violations) to operate agency vehicles.
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry a minimum of 35 lbs.; stand and sit for extended periods; bend at the waist and knees; kneel for extended periods.
  • Must possess the ability to exercise restraint and self-control in potentially volatile situations, including, but not limited to, being confronted verbally or physically in a threatening or aggressive manner by the people receiving support. This also includes the ability to deal with and redirect aggressive behavior.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
DSP I/II or DSP I Certification
High school diploma or GED: Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or Human Services; a Registered Certificate as a Behavior or Psychiatric Technician or in a field related to Mental Health is desirable. An equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred. 6 months of professional experience working with intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals is preferred but not required.
CHANGES IN JOB DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES:
HAALO Innovations reserves the right to make changes to job descriptions, responsibilities, functions, employment practices, supervisory lines of authority, employment titles, etc., as it deems necessary.
HAALO Innovations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Types: Part-time
Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • 401(k)
  • Paid orientation
  • Paid training
Work Location: In person