O*NET Career Intelligence

Recreational Therapists

SOC 29-1125.00

Plan, direct, or coordinate medically-approved recreation programs for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions. Activities include sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and arts and crafts. May assess a patient condition and recommend appropriate recreational activity.

Zone 4 Healthcare Practitioners and Technical

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Social Perceptiveness

4.1

Service Orientation

4.1

Active Listening

4.0

Speaking

4.0

Coordination

4.0

Reading Comprehension

3.8

Critical Thinking

3.8

Instructing

3.8

Knowledge Areas 8

Psychology

4.5

Therapy and Counseling

4.2

Customer and Personal Service

4.2

English Language

4.0

Education and Training

3.9

Sociology and Anthropology

3.5

Administration and Management

3.4

Clerical

3.1

Key Tasks

1Obtain information from medical records, medical staff, family members and the patients themselves to assess patients' capabilities, needs and interests.

2Conduct therapy sessions to improve patients' mental and physical well-being.

3Plan, organize, direct, and participate in treatment programs and activities to facilitate patients' rehabilitation, help them integrate into the community, and prevent further medical problems.

4Observe, analyze, and record patients' participation, reactions, and progress during treatment sessions, modifying treatment programs as needed.

5Confer with members of treatment team to plan and evaluate therapy programs.

Also Known As

Activities Director Activities Therapist Activity Assistant Activity Coordinator Activity Director Activity Therapist Adventure Therapist Certified Recreational Therapist Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) Child Life Therapist