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Recreational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who-- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who-- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who-- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Wellness Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$19.38 - $21.42/hr

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Wellness Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$18.91 - $20.88/hr

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Wellness Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$19.38 - $21.42/hr

Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who- * Is licensed ... Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or * Has completed a ...

Recreational Therapy Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$9

$33

$68

How much do recreational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapy assistant in Rochester, MN is $33.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $63.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of PTAs make the most money?

Recreational Therapy Assistants (PTAs) typically earn higher salaries when working in specialized settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, or skilled nursing facilities. Additional certifications, experience, and working in high-demand regions can also increase earning potential for PTAs in recreational therapy roles.

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 skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

Recreational Therapy Assistants need strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients and team members. They should have basic knowledge of therapeutic activities, patience, and the ability to adapt activities to individual needs. Certification or training in recreational therapy or related fields is often preferred or required.

What are Recreational Therapy Assistants?

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 do recreational therapy assistants do?

Recreational therapy assistants support recreational therapists by helping plan and facilitate activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being for clients. They may assist with organizing events, supervising activities, and ensuring safety during therapy sessions, often working in healthcare or community settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of activity planning are important for this role.

Where do recreational therapists make the most money?

Recreational therapists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater healthcare funding, such as urban areas or states with robust healthcare industries. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the setting, such as hospitals or rehabilitation centers, where specialized skills are valued. Overall, geographic location significantly influences earning potential for recreational therapy assistants.

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, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN? For Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Recreational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapy Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,991 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

The Wellness Assistant is responsible for assisting in the enhancement of the residents’ quality of life through social, spiritual, therapeutic, and other wellness activities and programs within the community.


Assists in developing the community’s wellness programming.  Facilitates daily events and programming to meet the needs of the residents.  Performs data collection to assist with the residents’ assessment processes.  Assists in the implementation of the plan of care based on the residents’ needs.


Qualifications Preferred

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in long term care
  • BLS Certification.
  • First Aid Certification
  • If the person holding this position leads the program they must meet qualifications as required by federal regulations §483.15(f)(2) The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who--
    • Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who--
    • Is licensed or registered, if applicable, by the State in which practicing; and
    • Is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or as an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body on or after October 1, 1990; or
    • Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, 1 of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or
    • Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or
    • Has completed a training course approved by the State.

EEO/AA/Vet Friendly


$19.38-$21.42

A robust benefits package is available to eligible associates, designed to meet the needs of every stage of life, including paid time off (PTO), retirement, medical, dental, vision, education assistance, and a variety of additional voluntary benefits.  For more information visit our website at www.benedictineliving.org.