Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Career Guide
Therapeutic Recreation Specialists use structured activities—sports, games, arts, community outings—to help people with illness, injury, or disability improve physical, cognitive, social, and emotional functioning. They assess needs, create treatment plans, lead interventions, and document progress as part of an interdisciplinary care team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct patient assessments and set measurable treatment goals
  • Develop individualized recreation treatment plans and session outlines
  • Lead group and 1:1 therapeutic activities and adapt them for abilities
  • Document progress notes and outcomes in EHR
  • Collaborate with PT/OT/SLP, nursing, and physicians on care plans
  • Train patients and families on carryover and community reintegration
  • Select and maintain adaptive equipment and activity materials

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Lead Recreational Therapist
Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor/Manager
Rehabilitation Program Coordinator
Director of Therapeutic Recreation
Transition Opportunities
Activity Director (Long-Term Care)
Child Life Specialist
Behavioral Health Technician/Coordinator
Recreation Program Coordinator (Community Parks & Rec)

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
CTRS-level assessment and treatment planningAdapting interventions for complex medical/behavioral needsAccurate, timely EHR documentation and outcomes trackingManaging groups in acute psych/rehab milieus
Development SuggestionsComplete NCTRC-approved coursework and a 560-hour RT internship; shadow a CTRS and volunteer with adaptive sports or inpatient groups to practice documentation and facilitation.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$45,000-$52,000
Mid Level$52,000-$62,000
Senior Level$62,000-$75,000
Growth Trend
stable — Modest growth with steady demand in rehab, behavioral health, and aging services

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
Veterans Health Administration (VA)Encompass HealthHCA Healthcare
Industry Sectors
HealthcareBehavioral HealthLong-Term Care & Rehabilitation

Recommended Next Steps

1
Verify NCTRC eligibility, complete required RT coursework, and secure a 560-hour clinical internship; then sit for the CTRS exam.
2
Obtain BLS/CPR and CPI certifications; build a portfolio of group protocols with measurable goals and outcomes.
3
Gain experience by volunteering or per-diem work in rehab, behavioral health, or long-term care; network via ATRA chapters and request informational interviews with CTRSs.