Recreation Therapist Jobs in Washington
A Recreation Therapist, also known as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, utilizes treatment services and recreation activities to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals. They interact with diverse patient populations from children to the elderly, with a broad range of health conditions, such as developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, and physical illnesses or injuries. Recreation Therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for individuals in institutions, clinical environments, or community settings.
To become a Recreation Therapist, one must possess a combination of hard and soft skills. These include excellent interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, creativity, and adaptability. They should have a strong understanding of human anatomy, disability issues, and therapeutic theories. Additionally, they need to be physically fit, as the job often involves physical activities. A bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field is typically required. Most employers prefer candidates who are certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). Before becoming a Recreation Therapist, a person may have roles such as a Recreation Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, or Occupational Therapist Assistant.
WDVA Recreation Therapy Specialist, Memory Care, Full-Time - Permanent, Washington Veterans Home
- Home, WA
- 1 day ago
- Home, WA
- 1 day ago
Bachelor's degree involving major study in recreation, therapeutic recreation, a related field, or one (1) year of experience as a Recreation & Athletics Specialist 1....
LICENSURE: Certified as a Recreation Therapist (CTRS), WA State Registered Recreation Therapist, Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration (can be obtained after hire)....
The City of Redmond is a thriving, culturally diverse community, and home to over 80,000 residents. Redmond is the hub to an array of commerce and industry ranging from technology, aerospace, and...
Performs routine respiratory therapy treatments such as oxygen, therapeutic aerosols, intermittent positive pressure breathing, incentive spirometer, and airway care to include intubation/extubation...
The Recreation Program Specialist for the Recreation Department will be responsible for coordinating office work tasks to insure efficient and effective facility operations and maintenance. Task...
Job Description The City of Renton is recruiting for a Recreation Specialist - Adaptive Programs to join our Parks & Recreation department. The Adaptive Recreation Program consists of Special...
The City of Renton is recruiting for a Recreation Specialist - Adaptive Programs to join our Parks & Recreation department. The Adaptive Recreation Program consists of Special Olympics,...
DSHS BHA Recreation Therapist 2 We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Recreation Therapist 2 to join our team at the Child Study and Treatment Center (CSTC) in Lakewood, WA....
as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Must register with the Washington State Department of Health as a Recreation Therapist Ability to obtain WA State Food Handler's Card within 14 days...
This position provides a variety of therapeutic social, recreational and diversional events for clients. Conducts individual assessment to identify the clients' individual interests/needs....
Demographic Data for Washington
Moving to Washington? Find some basic demographic data about Washington below.
Recreation Therapist Online Courses and Training Opportunities
Title Synonyms
Users interested in this job title also searched for the following job titles
Salary for Recreation Therapist Jobs in Washington
Required or preferred licenses and certifications for Recreation Therapist positions.
Highest Education Level
Recreation Therapists in Washington offer the following education backgroundQualifications / Skill Sets
The following top skills are often required or desired to land a Recreation Therapist position
- Baseball
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Certified Lifeguard
- Dance
- Gymnastics
- Water Safety Instructor
- Events
- CPR First Aid
- Crisis Prevention
- Mood Disorders
- Aquatics
- High School Diploma
- Officiating
- Relaxation
- Therapeutic Modalities
- Music Therapy
- Treatment Planning
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Art Therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Exercise
- Interventions
- Developmental Disabilities
- Therapeutic
- Group Counseling
- Dementia Care
- Outpatient
- Psychiatry
- Discharge Planning
- Acute Care
- Behavioral Health
- Music
- Fitness
- Mental Health
- Hospital Operations
- Patient Care
- Wellness
- Basic Life Support
- First Aid
- Nursing
- Counseling
- Health Care
- Referrals
- Interviewing
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
- Documentation
- Employee Development
- Collaboration
- Bachelor's Degree
- Regulations
- Policy Development
- Teamwork
- Organization
- Customer Service
- Research Skills
- Scheduling
- Leadership
- Communication Skills
Other Career Titles
Here are some other career titles that require similar skills
Recreation Therapist Related Career Advice Articles

How to Become a Physical Therapist
Wondering how to become a physical therapist? Use this guide to learn about what physical therapists do, how long it takes to be a physical therapist, and even the average physical therapist salary.
Read article »
What Employers Look for When Hiring for Therapist Jobs
Ready to launch your career in professional therapy? Find out what you can do to stand out to employers and get one step closer to becoming a therapist.
Read article »
Which Physical Therapy Career Path is Right for You?
Just beginning your physical therapist career? Learn about the different types of physical therapy and choose the right physical therapy career path for you.
Read article »