Recreational Therapist

Recreational therapists work with disabled or ill individuals by providing and participating in recreational activities for them. They attempt to improve and enhance the mental and emotional well being of their clients through the use of various activities

Recreational therapists coordinate their work with physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and recreational and occupational therapists to rehabilitate people recreationally and emotionally. The programs they design involve exercise, mental stimulation, creativity and fun.

Recreational therapists need to have patience, tact and compassion, and a strong desire to help other people. They must also be comfortable working with people with disabilities and disease. They need excellent social and communication skills as well, and a sense of humor.

Education and Credentials Required
Most, but not all, entry-level positions require a bachelors’ degree in therapeutic recreation. An associate degree in therapeutic recreation, or a similar healthcare-related field, may be sufficient.

The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification offers certification for recreational therapists. In order to gain this certification you must prove you have a bachelors’ degree, pass a written exam, and complete a 480-hour internship. This certification is not mandatory, but many employers prefer it. Additionally, there are continuing education requirements to maintain certification.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for recreational therapists are expected to rise more slowly than average, except in nursing care facilities. Employment in hospitals is likely to see a downturn because of a move toward outpatient treatment, and an emphasis on minimizing costs.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for recreational therapists was $30,540. The top ten percent salary-wise made more recreational therapists $47,180, whereas the bottom ten percent made less than $18,130. Self-employed recreational therapists can expect to earn significantly more than salaried recreational therapists. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Recreational therapists must pay for their own health benefits and retirement benefits if they are self-employed.