What jobs can a recreational therapist do?
James Williams
Updated on April 03, 2026
Work environment Recreational therapists are typically employed by hospitals, nursing homes, parks and recreation departments, community health centers, school districts, adult care programs, substance abuse centers, and correctional facilities.
Is recreational therapy a good career?
Recreation Therapists are an important part of the interdisciplinary treatment team. Recreation Therapy is a career that is highly satisfying and meaningful. Therapeutic Recreation is a growing, evidence-based field.
What major is recreational therapy?
Most entry-level recreational therapists need a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation. Some applicants may qualify for paraprofessional positions with an associate’s degree in therapeutic recreation or another subject related to health care.
What are the benefits of being a recreational therapist?
Benefits usually include paid holidays and vacations, health insurance, and retirement plans. Some therapists receive tuition assistance for additional study. Recreational therapists in private practice must provide their own benefits.
Is it hard to find a job in recreational therapy?
Most therapeutic recreation grads are likely to be searching for recreation therapist positions. They are out there, it just may require some patience and flexibility to find your ideal job. It is important to note that these positions will most likely require the applicant to have their CTRS designation.
Is there a demand for recreational therapist?
Employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the U.S. population ages, more people will need recreational therapists to help treat age-related injuries and illnesses. …
Is recreational therapy in demand?
Employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 1,700 new jobs over the 10-year period.
What are the 5 domains of recreation therapy?
What are the five domains:
- Mental/Cognitive Functioning.
- Physical Functioning.
- Psychological/Emotional Functioning.
- Social Function.
- Spiritual Function.
How much do Ctrs make?
While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $123,500 and as low as $35,000, the majority of CTRS salaries currently range between $62,500 (25th percentile) to $98,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $123,500 annually across the United States.
What are my career options in recreation therapy?
As a recreational therapist, you might find yourself organizing arts and crafts, sports, dance, theater, and musical activities. Some of the areas in which you might work include hospitals, nursing care facilities and community health centers.
What kind of jobs can you get with a recreation degree?
Recreational Therapy Assistants/Workers positions are a great place to start out to gain experience. These positions are also a great place to stay if you prefer the client interaction and program implementation aspect of recreation therapy.
What kind of Education do you need to be a recreational therapist?
Education Requirements A bachelor’s degree related to recreational therapy is usually required to work as a recreational therapist. Some subjects you might study in a degree program include medical terminology, human anatomy, assistive devices, and disabilities. You may also complete an internship.
How are recreational therapists help people with disabilities?
Your work as a recreational therapist can help people with disabilities or illnesses lead more active and independent lives. With the help of patients’ family members, you’ll develop a program of leisure activities based on patients’ needs, whether they be to build social skills, relieve depression or improve mobility and motor function.