Plan, direct, or coordinate medically-approved recreation programs for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions. Activities include sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and crafts. May assess a patient condition and recommend appropriate recreational activity.
KnowledgeDesign individualized therapeutic recreation programs synthesizing patient assessments, medical protocols, and creative activity modalities for diverse populations in hospitals and nursing homes.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate patient condition and functional capabilities in clinical settings, using psychological and therapeutic knowledge to recommend medically-appropriate recreational interventions.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered service principles with therapeutic recreation goals when establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships across diverse patient populations and care settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeCoordinate medically-approved recreation programs including sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and crafts in institutional healthcare settings, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and managing resources under time constraints.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of recreational equipment and adaptive devices, including therapeutic weight machines, musical instruments, sports equipment, and assistive technologies during patient treatment sessions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess patient progress and treatment effectiveness through continuous monitoring and documentation in electronic medical records, adjusting interventions to meet individualized goals.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for patient engagement and quality of life improvements when resolving conflicts and negotiating with interdisciplinary team members, family, and institutional stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize program schedules, activities, and resources, managing multiple concurrent therapeutic recreation interventions while adhering to institutional policies and safety standards.
Proficient
MindsetEngage patients in therapeutic activities through motivational and persuasive communication, demonstrating social perceptiveness and active listening when working directly with individuals requiring specialized care.
Developing
KnowledgeApply therapy and counseling techniques when coaching and instructing patients on skill development, following evidence-based therapeutic recreation protocols.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Recreational Therapists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
15,060
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $39,520. 25th percentile: U.S. $48,230. 50th percentile: U.S. $60,280. 75th percentile: U.S. $77,680. 90th percentile: U.S. $96,600. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$39,520
10% of workers earn the following or more
$96,600
Workers on average earn
$65,350
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Psychology4.5/5
Therapy and Counseling4.5/5
Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
Education and Training4.2/5
English Language4.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
Avid Technology Sibelius
Email software
Hyperscore
MakeMusic Finale
Musical instrument digital interface MIDI software
