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Profession: Rehabilitation Therapy

Recreational Therapist: Also known as Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, they provide treatment services and recreation activities for individuals with disabilities or illness. Using a variety of techniques, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings, therapists improve and maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their clients. Recreational therapists are different from re creation workers, who organize recreation activities primarily for enjoyment.

Salary Range: $29,660 - $49,140

Salary Notes: Median earnings are $38,370, with the best salaries at general medical and surgical hospitals, state government, psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals, nursing care facilities, and community care facilities for the elderly.

Where you can study:
Springfield College, Springfield, MA

Where you might work:
Hospitals - Nursing Facilities - Senior Citizen Centers and Retirement Communities - State and Local Health Departments -

Job Outlook: Employment is expected to grow 4% through 2016, which is slower than average for all occupations. Job opportunities should be best for people with a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or in recreation with courses in therapeutic recreation. Opportunities should also be good for therapists who hold specialized certifications such as aquatic therapy, meditation, or crisis intervention.

Education, Licensing and Certification: A bachelor’s degree with a major or concentration in therapeutic recreation is the usual requirement for entry-level positions. Some states regulate recreation therapists, but requirements vary.

Professional Organizations:
American Therapeutic Recreation Association 601-450-2872 www.atra-online.com
National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification 845-639-1439 www.nctrc.org/
National Recreation and Park Association 800-626-6772 www.nrpa.org/