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Recreational Therapy Intern Jobs in Rochester, NY

Recreational Therapy Intern information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do recreational therapy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapy intern in Rochester, NY is $16.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreational therapy intern?

A Recreational Therapy Intern assists certified recreational therapists in planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic activities for individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. They gain hands-on experience by leading group or one-on-one sessions using activities like arts, sports, and music to improve patients' well-being. Interns also help with documenting patient progress and learning about treatment plans. This role provides valuable exposure to healthcare settings and prepares interns for a career in recreational therapy.

What kind of supervision and mentorship can a recreational therapy intern expect during their internship?

Recreational Therapy Interns typically work closely under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or experienced recreational therapy staff. Interns receive regular guidance, participate in team meetings, and may shadow or assist with group and individual activities, ensuring hands-on learning experiences. Mentors also provide constructive feedback, help interns develop professional skills, and encourage reflective practice throughout the internship. This supportive environment allows interns to build confidence while learning best practices in client care and activity planning.

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

To thrive as a Recreational Therapy Intern, you need foundational knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles, activity planning, and relevant coursework or progress toward a related degree. Familiarity with documentation tools, adaptive equipment, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is valued. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a willingness to learn from feedback help set successful interns apart. Mastering these skills ensures you can safely and effectively support clients’ therapeutic needs in collaboration with licensed professionals.

What are popular job titles related to Recreational Therapy Intern jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Recreational Therapy Intern jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Recreational Therapy Intern jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Recreational Therapy Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreational Therapy Intern job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,258 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Internship and Shadowing Opportunities

The Arc Wayne

Newark, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Arc Wayne rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Gain valuable work experience and give back to your community with an internship at The Arc Wayne!
Interning at The Arc Wayne allows you to create meaningful relationships with individuals with and without disabilities, prepares you for your future career and enhances the well-being of individuals supported by The Arc Wayne.
The agency's interns improve our community through a variety of programs and services that help advance their careers and showcase the valuable skills they possess. Let us help you explore the dozens of internship opportunities across the agency.
Programs:
  • Central administration human resources, public relations, marketing, graphic design, event planning, fundraising, finance, accounting, administration
  • Clinic physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social work, psychology
  • Nursing residential, day services, Roosevelt Children's Center
  • Community services recreation, respite care
  • Criminal Justice Treatment Alternatives for Safer Communities (TASC), defender-based advocacy, employment services, pretrial services
  • Day services art or music therapy, human services, recreation coordination, culinary
  • Key Industries job development, business relations, job coaching
  • Roosevelt Children's Center special education, clinical services (PT, OT, speech), early intervention
  • Residential services human services, nursing, care management
  • Erie Shore Landing culinary, business development, marketing, advertising, public relations

Benefits:
  • Flexibility we work with your schedule!
  • Meaningful relationships you have the opportunity to make a difference in the life of someone with a disability and create a life-long friendship
  • Community impact The Arc Wayne is one of the largest nonprofits in Wayne County and impacts thousands of people each year. Your time and talents impact a huge portion of your community.
  • Professional development gain real-world work experience while you finish a degree, and complete all your necessary credit hours.

About Us:
The Arc of Wayne was incorporated on October 1, 1964 by a group of dedicated parents, volunteers, and advocates in an effort to provide more opportunities for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prior to The Arc Wayne being formed, there were very few quality services and supports for anyone with a disability in the community. The team of Eleanor & Joseph VanHaelst, Gerald Campbell, David Breen, Lou Anne Montemorano, John & Amelia Catholdi, Bessie Schnabel, Mary Laudenslayer, and Janet Mosher came together to provide schooling, transportation, and day services for their children and others with disabilities in the community who needed services.
Today, The Arc Wayne has evolved into a private nonprofit with more than 550 employees serving about 1,700 individuals in the community through nearly three dozen programs and services across eight counties. The agency serves individuals from birth until the end of his or her life through a variety of services including Roosevelt Children's Center, residential, job placements, clinic, transportation and more. The Arc Wayne is always looking for new and innovative ways to serve the community, especially those with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The Arc Wayne is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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