Recreational Therapist Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of health and wellness, the focus on recreational therapist assistants has become increasingly significant.

As society pays greater attention to the importance of recreational therapy, the demand for skilled individuals who can support and enhance the therapeutic experience grows.

But what does it truly mean to be a recreational therapist assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of recreational therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable recreational therapist assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Recreational Therapist Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Recreational Therapist Assistants aid in the implementation of various therapeutic activities and programs to help patients improve their physical, social, and emotional well-being.

They work under the direct supervision of a Recreational Therapist.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in planning and implementing recreational therapy programs and activities
• Providing direct patient care in a supportive and compassionate manner
• Assisting patients in participating in therapeutic recreational activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, social activities, and community outings
• Observing and documenting patient progress and reactions to therapeutic activities
• Setting up and preparing materials and equipment for therapeutic activities
• Communicating patient progress and any concerns to the supervising Recreational Therapist
• Maintaining a safe and clean therapeutic environment
• Assisting patients with mobility, including transfers and ambulation
• Participating in team meetings and contributing to treatment planning
• Complying with all relevant regulations, standards, and policies related to patient care and privacy

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and creative Recreational Therapist Assistant to aid our team in providing therapy programs designed to meet the physical, social, and emotional needs of our clients.

Recreational Therapist Assistant responsibilities include assisting with the planning and implementation of therapeutic recreational programs, documenting client progress, and providing individualized care according to each client’s unique needs and abilities.

Our ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of therapeutic recreation techniques, excellent interpersonal skills, and a passion for helping others.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist Recreational Therapist in planning and implementing therapeutic recreational programs
• Monitor and document clients’ progress and responses to therapies
• Provide individualized care based on each client’s unique needs and abilities
• Help clients participate in activities and ensure their safety during therapy sessions
• Assist in maintaining therapy equipment and supplies
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop individualized therapeutic plans
• Follow facility policies and maintain client confidentiality
• Communicate with clients’ families about progress and therapy goals

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Recreational Therapist Assistant or similar role
• Understanding of therapeutic recreation techniques and principles
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong physical stamina to assist with client activities
• Ability to work with a diverse population of clients
• Patience and empathy towards clients’ needs and challenges
• Current CPR and First Aid certification
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Recreational Therapist Assistant
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a healthcare or rehabilitation setting. Physical activity is a major part of the job, as is working closely with clients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Recreational Therapist or Rehabilitation Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $40,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Recreational Therapist Assistant Do?

Recreational Therapist Assistants typically work under the supervision of a Recreational Therapist.

They work in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and parks and community centers.

Their primary job is to assist in the planning, organization, and execution of therapeutic recreational programs.

These programs are designed to improve the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of their clients, who may include elderly individuals, children, adolescents, or adults with disabilities or specific health conditions.

Recreational Therapist Assistants may lead activities such as arts and crafts, sports, games, music, and community outings.

They also help clients use adaptive equipment and provide any necessary support during activities.

These professionals are responsible for setting up and cleaning up activity areas, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and documenting client progress and participation.

They also provide valuable input to the Recreational Therapist regarding the effectiveness of certain activities and propose changes or new activities as needed.

Additionally, Recreational Therapist Assistants often interact with the clients’ family members to provide updates on their progress and to suggest activities that can be continued at home.

Their job is not only to facilitate recreational activities, but also to help clients develop social skills, improve self-confidence, and increase their independence and overall quality of life.

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Recreational Therapist Assistant should possess a specific set of skills and qualifications to perform their role effectively:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, understanding their needs and goals effectively.
• Understanding of recreational therapy techniques and practices, and the ability to assist in implementing these for patients.
• Physical fitness and stamina to participate in various recreational activities and to assist patients during these activities.
• Ability to monitor and assess the progress of patients, recording observations accurately for the recreational therapist.
• Empathy and patience to work with people who have disabilities or illnesses and understand their unique challenges.
• Flexibility and adaptability to adjust activities and programs based on individual patient needs.
• Problem-solving skills to identify potential issues during therapy sessions and find appropriate solutions.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols during therapeutic activities to ensure the wellbeing of patients.

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Experience Requirements

Recreational Therapist Assistants typically require prior experience in therapeutic recreation services or a related field.

This can be obtained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work during or after their study.

Entry-level candidates for this role often have 1 to 2 years of experience in a recreational setting, such as a hospital, nursing home, or community recreation centers.

They would have gained hands-on experience working with individuals of different age groups and health conditions, under the supervision of a qualified Recreational Therapist.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are often skilled at planning, coordinating, and implementing therapeutic activities for diverse client groups.

They may also have experience in maintaining patient records, preparing progress reports, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in this role are expected to have extensive knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles and practices.

They may be capable of conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing direct patient care.

Their experience may also encompass leadership roles, including supervising and training junior staff or volunteers.

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Recreational Therapist Assistants usually require an associate degree or a certificate program in recreational therapy or a related field.

These programs provide students with a theoretical understanding of recreational therapy and practical experience.

Key areas of learning include human anatomy, physiology, medical and psychiatric terminology, and therapeutic techniques.

Many states require Recreational Therapist Assistants to be licensed, which typically involves passing a state-recognized exam.

Licensing requirements can vary by state, but generally, individuals must be at least 18 years old, have completed their educational program, and have some form of supervised clinical experience.

To further advance their career and skills, Recreational Therapist Assistants can pursue additional certifications or credentials.

For instance, the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification offers the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential.

Many employers also prefer candidates with First Aid and CPR certifications.

Voluntary certification and continued education demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to their profession and can provide opportunities for career advancement.

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Recreational Therapist Assistant is approximately $32,330 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific employer.

 

Recreational Therapist Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Recreational Therapist Assistant need?

Recreational Therapist Assistants should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients.

They should have a good understanding of the therapeutic benefits of recreational activities and the ability to adapt these activities to suit the abilities of different patients.

They should also be patient, compassionate, and have a genuine desire to help improve the quality of life for their patients.

 

Do Recreational Therapist Assistants need a degree?

While not always required, many Recreational Therapist Assistants have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field.

However, the most important requirement is usually relevant experience, along with certifications like First Aid and CPR.

Some states may also require licensure or registration.

 

What should you look for in a Recreational Therapist Assistant resume?

Look for a background in recreational therapy or a related field, along with any relevant certifications such as First Aid or CPR.

Experience working with the specific patient population your facility serves (e.g., seniors, children, people with disabilities) is also important.

References that can vouch for their patient handling skills, compassion, and reliability can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Recreational Therapist Assistant?

A good Recreational Therapist Assistant is creative, adaptable, and patient.

They should be able to come up with engaging activities that are suitable for their patients’ physical and cognitive abilities.

They should have excellent interpersonal skills, as they’ll be working closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

They should also be compassionate and empathetic, to help motivate and support their patients in their therapy.

 

Is it challenging to hire Recreational Therapist Assistants?

Hiring Recreational Therapist Assistants can be challenging as it requires finding candidates who are not only qualified, but also genuinely passionate about helping people.

This can be a physically and emotionally demanding job, so it’s important to find candidates who are resilient and committed to the well-being of their patients.

Offering a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development can help attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the enriching world of being a recreational therapist assistant.

Guess what?

It’s not just about assisting in treatment plans.

It’s about crafting a healthier, happier future, one therapy session at a time.

With our handy recreational therapist assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step in creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapy session contributes to the larger goal of holistic well-being.

Let’s shape a brighter, healthier future. Together.

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