Recreational therapists use leisure activities to help people of all ages and abilities improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
Salary
- United States: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $76,670 in February 2024. The top 10% of earners made more than $105,530, while the bottom 10% earned less than $48,410.
- Canada: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $83,867 in 2024.
- Australia: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $92,640 in 2024.
- United Kingdom: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $67,140 in 2024.
- Ireland: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $64,200 in 2024.
- New Zealand: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $84,400 in 2024.
- South Africa: The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $37,400 in 2024.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors can affect a recreational therapist’s salary, including:
- Experience: Recreational therapists with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
- Education: Recreational therapists with a master’s degree typically earn higher salaries than those with a bachelor’s degree.
- Location: Recreational therapists who work in urban areas typically earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas.
- Work Setting: Recreational therapists who work in hospitals typically earn higher salaries than those who work in other settings.
Job Outlook
The employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 16 percent from 2024 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for recreational therapy services from older adults and people with chronic health conditions.
Education and Training
To become a recreational therapist, you need a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field. Some employers may also require a master’s degree. In addition to education, you must complete an internship to gain supervised work experience.
Certifications
The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) offers several certifications for recreational therapists. These certifications can demonstrate your competence and knowledge to employers.
Skills
Recreational therapists need a variety of skills, including:
- Communication Skills: Recreational therapists must be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Recreational therapists must be able to assess patients’ needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
- Organizational Skills: Recreational therapists must be able to manage their time and resources effectively.
- Creativity: Recreational therapists must be able to create and implement innovative treatment activities.
- Patience: Recreational therapists must be patient and understanding with patients who may have challenging conditions.
If you are interested in a career as a recreational therapist, you should have a strong desire to help others and be able to work well with people of all ages and abilities.
