Recreational Therapist

What They Do:

Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts; drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree

     

What They Make:

The median annual wage for recreational therapists was $48,220 in 2019.

 

Where They Work:

  • Hospitals

  • Nursing homes

  • Government parks and recreation departments

 

Career Outlook:

Employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

 

Sources:

 

Updated February 2021