Recreational therapists plan, direct, or coordinate medically-approved recreation programs for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions. Activities may include sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and arts and crafts.
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- Recreational Therapists
Health Science
What do they typically do
- Prepare and submit reports and charts to treatment team to reflect patients' reactions and evidence of progress or regression
- Conduct therapy sessions to improve patients' mental and physical well-being
- Counsel and encourage patients to develop leisure activities
- Develop treatment plan to meet needs of patient, based on needs assessment, patient interests and objectives of therapy
- Instruct patient in activities and techniques, such as sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques, designed to meet their specific physical or psychological needs
- Plan, organize, direct and participate in treatment programs and activities to assist in patients' rehabilitation, help them integrate into the community, and prevent further medical problems
- Get information from medical records, medical staff, family members, and the patients themselves to assess patients' capabilities, needs, and interests
- Observe, analyze, and record patients' participation, reactions, and progress during treatment sessions, modifying treatment programs as needed
Number of Jobs
Average Annual
Job Growth -0.1%
Job Opening 21
Education & Training
- Education Most require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.Associated Programs or MajorsLicense
Private Training Programs
427
424
Change -3