How To Become a Recreational Therapist Complete Guide | SkillsAndTech

Becoming a Recreational Therapist is a process that takes time, effort, and dedication. However, the rewards of working in this field are numerous and include helping people recover from injuries and improve their quality of life. This blog post will provide a complete guide on how to become a Recreational Therapist. We will cover everything from the necessary education and training requirements to job outlook and salary information.

Steps For How To Become a Recreational Therapist

If you want to become a recreational therapist, there are a few steps you need to follow. Here is a complete guide on how to become a recreational therapist:

1. Get a degree in recreation therapy or a related field. You can find programs at many colleges and universities.

2. Complete an internship or practicum in recreation therapy. This will give you hands-on experience working with clients.

3. Pass the national certification exam for recreation therapists. This will show that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be a successful therapist.

4. Find a job working as a recreation therapist in a hospital, rehabilitation center, nursing home, or other health care setting.

5. Continue your education by taking courses and attending conferences related to recreation therapy. This will help you stay up-to-date on new developments in the field and hone your skills.

Educational Requirements To Become a Recreational Therapist

In order to become a recreational therapist, one must complete an accredited recreational therapy program. There are many accredited programs across the country that offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees in recreational therapy. Many recreational therapists hold a bachelor’s degree in recreation therapy, but some hold a master’s degree or doctorate.

In order to be eligible for admission into an accredited recreation therapy program, one must have completed high school or equivalent.

Most programs also require applicants to have taken certain prerequisite courses, such as psychology, sociology, anatomy and physiology, and kinesiology. Some programs may also require applicants to submit letters of recommendation and participate in an interview process.

Once admitted into an accredited recreation therapy program, students will take coursework that covers topics such as human development and psychopathology, therapeutic recreation intervention techniques, assessment and evaluation in recreation therapy, and medical aspects of disability.

Students will also complete fieldwork experiences that provide them with hands-on training in the field of recreation therapy.

Upon successful completion of an accredited recreation therapy program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination administered by the Certification Board for Recreational Therapists (CBRT).

Job Description of Recreational Therapist

A recreational therapist is a professional who helps people with disabilities or chronic health conditions improve their functioning and quality of life through engagement in therapeutic recreation and other activities.

The job description of a recreational therapist varies depending on the setting in which they work, but generally includes assessment of patients, development and implementation of treatment plans, and documentation of patient progress.

Recreational therapists may work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, community mental health centers, or private practice.

In order to become a recreational therapist, one must complete a bachelor’s degree in recreation therapy or a related field such as psychology, sociology, or special education.

Many states also require licensure or certification. Those interested in pursuing a career in recreational therapy should consider taking courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and pharmacology to better prepare for the field.

Recreational Therapist Career and Salary

As a recreational therapist, you will help people with physical, mental, or social disabilities recover from their injuries and improve their overall quality of life. Your job will be to design and implement therapeutic recreation programs that address the specific needs of your patients.

In order to become a recreational therapist, you will need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in recreation therapy or a related field. Many employers also prefer candidates who have certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).

The median salary for a recreational therapist is $47,860 per year. However, your exact salary will depend on factors such as your experience level, geographical location, and the type of facility you work in.

Benefits of Successful Recreational Therapist

There are many benefits to becoming a successful recreational therapist. The ability to help people improve their quality of life is extremely rewarding. In addition, recreational therapists can earn a good salary and enjoy job security. Here are some other benefits of becoming a successful recreational therapist:

You can make a difference in people’s lives

Recreational therapists have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of their patients. They can help them regain independence and improve their overall quality of life.

You can earn a good salary

The median annual salary for recreational therapists is $47,860. Therapists with more experience and advanced credentials can earn even more.

You will enjoy job security

The demand for recreational therapists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2026 due to an aging population and an increased focus on treating patients with disabilities.

What Skills Are Recreational Therapist Needed ?

As a recreational therapist, you will need to have a wide range of skills in order to be successful. Here are some of the skills that you will need:

1. Communication Skills

As a recreational therapist, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with your patients. You will need to be able to understand their needs and wants, and then explain to them how recreation therapy can help them achieve their goals.

2. Organizational Skills

You will need to be well-organized in order to manage your time and resources effectively. You will also need to be able to keep accurate records of your patients’ progress.

3. Interpersonal Skills

You will need strong interpersonal skills in order to build rapport with your patients and their families. You should also be comfortable working as part of a team.

4. Problem-Solving Skills

As a recreational therapist, you will often encounter challenges that require creative solutions. You should be able to think outside the box and come up with new ideas that will benefit your patients.

5. Physical Stamina

Recreation therapy can be physically demanding at times. You should be physically fit and able to handle occasional lifting and moving of equipment.

Reasons of Why becoming a Recreational Therapist

There are many reasons why someone might want to become a recreational therapist. For some, it may be a way to give back to the community and help those in need. Others may be drawn to the field because of its flexibility and the ability to work with a variety of people.

Recreational therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and even in private practice. This flexibility means that there are many opportunities for therapists to find a place that fits their interests and lifestyle.

The work of a recreational therapist can be very rewarding. Seeing patients improve and reach their goals is one of the most gratifying aspects of the job. Recreational therapists also have the opportunity to build relationships with their patients and watch them grow over time.

Conclusion

Becoming a recreational therapist is a great way to help people cope with physical, emotional, and mental health issues. The job requires a lot of compassion and understanding, as well as the ability to think outside the box to come up with fun and therapeutic activities. If you have what it takes, follow the steps in this guide and you’ll be on your way to becoming a certified recreational therapist.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)

What does a Recreational Therapist do ?

A Recreational Therapist works with individuals who have physical, emotional, or mental disabilities. They use recreation and play to help these individuals develop life skills, social skills, and coping skills.

Recreation Therapists also work with groups of people with similar disabilities. They may work in a hospital, nursing home, outpatient clinic, or community center.

Recreational therapy is an evidence-based practice that uses recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.

In order to become a recreational therapist one must complete an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in recreational therapy and pass the national exam administered by the Certifying Board for Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CBTRS).

How much do Recreational Therapist make ?

Recreational therapists are health care professionals who work with patients to help them recover from physical or mental illness. They use a variety of methods, including recreation, arts and crafts, and exercise to help their patients improve their physical and mental health.

Recreational therapists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field. Some states require recreational therapists to be licensed or certified.

The median annual wage for recreational therapists was $47,860 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,520, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $76,880.

How much does it cost to be a Recreational Therapist ?

The cost of becoming a recreational therapist varies depending on the route you take. If you choose to get a bachelor’s degree, you can expect to pay for tuition, books, and other fees associated with attending college. The average cost of a four-year degree is around $30,000.

If you opt to pursue a master’s degree in recreational therapy, you can expect to pay slightly more. The average cost of a two-year master’s program is around $40,000. However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you may be able to complete a shorter master’s program that costs less.

In addition to the cost of your education, you will also need to factor in the cost of licensure and certification. The fee for taking the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification exam is $350.

And although it is not required in all states, many employers prefer or require their recreational therapists to be licensed. The cost of becoming licensed varies by state but is typically around $100-$200.

So how much does it really cost to become a recreational therapist? If you get your bachelor’s degree and pursue licensure and certification, you can expect to spend around $35,000-$45,000 total. Of course, this number could be higher or lower depending on the specific programs and schools you choose and whether or not you receive financial aid.

How long does it take to become a Recreational Therapist ?

Becoming a recreational therapist is a process that takes time, effort, and dedication. The length of time it takes to become a recreational therapist depends on many factors, such as your previous education and work experience, the state in which you plan to practice, and the specific requirements of the employer.

In most states, recreational therapists must have at least a bachelor’s degree in recreation therapy or a related field. Some states also require licensure or certification. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed an accredited recreation therapy program and have passed the national certification exam administered by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).

The process of becoming a certified recreational therapist can take several years. However, those who are dedicated to helping others improve their quality of life through therapeutic recreation can find great satisfaction in this rewarding career.

How many hours of Recreational Therapist Work

There are typically two types of recreational therapist work settings: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient facilities include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities. Outpatient facilities include community recreation programs, wellness centers, day treatment centers, and private practices.

Recreational therapists typically work full time. Hours may vary depending on the facility in which they work and whether they are working with patients in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Some therapists may also work weekends or holidays.