Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Recreational Therapist
What recreational therapists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review patient goals in team rounds. From there, the day usually includes assess patients’ needs and interests, plan therapeutic recreation programs, and lead individual and group activities. Most work full-time, sometimes evenings and weekends when patients are available.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a recreational therapist working full time.
- Review patient goals in team rounds.
- Lead adaptive sports with stroke patients.
- Run a music group on the psychiatric unit.
- Assess a new patient’s interests.
- Take patients on a community outing to practice skills.
- Document progress notes.
- Plan next week’s programs.
Where recreational therapists work
Recreational therapists work in hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes, psychiatric facilities and community programs.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time, sometimes evenings and weekends when patients are available.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Assess patients’ needs and interests
- Plan therapeutic recreation programs
- Lead individual and group activities
- Adapt activities for abilities
- Track progress toward goals
- Coordinate community outings
- Document treatment
Tools you’ll use every day
- Adaptive sports equipment
- Art and music supplies
- Games
- Electronic health records
- Assessment tools
- Community resources
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Creative, meaningful therapy
- Variety of activities
- Part of healthcare teams
- Helping people find joy again
What’s hard
- Lower pay than some therapies
- Physical and emotional demands
- Documentation
- Limited awareness of the field
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I want to help people heal
- I love games, arts or sports
- I’m creative
- I’m patient
- I like working on healthcare teams
- I want meaningful work
Not sure? Take the free Recreational Therapist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Assess fall risk and medical needs
- Use adaptive equipment correctly
- Plan outings with safety and accessibility in mind
- Follow infection control