FAQ
Recreational Therapist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a recreational therapist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a recreational therapist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about recreational therapists
What’s the difference from a recreation worker?
Recreational therapists use activities as treatment with clinical goals.
Do I need certification?
Most employers want the CTRS.
Where do they work?
Hospitals, rehab, long-term care and community programs.
How much does a recreational therapist make?
The median annual wage for recreational therapists was $61,960 ($29.79 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $40,990 and the highest 10% earned more than $100,420.
How long does it take to become a recreational therapist?
Most people need about 4 years plus internship of training. A bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or a related field is typical, plus an internship and the CTRS exam.
Do you need a degree to be a recreational therapist?
Yes, usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and most employers want the CTRS credential, which requires a degree and internship.
Is recreational therapist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.8% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 1,400 openings each year. Upsides include creative, meaningful therapy; a common challenge is that lower pay than some therapies.
What skills does a recreational therapist need?
Key technical skills include therapeutic assessment, activity adaptation, group facilitation, and treatment planning. Employers also value creativity, empathy, and enthusiasm.
What certifications are available for recreational therapists?
Common credentials include Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), State license, CPR and first aid, and Adaptive sports certifications. A few states license recreational therapists; many employers require the CTRS credential.
Still deciding?
Try the Recreational Therapist fit quiz, compare with Recreation Worker, or explore Recreational Therapist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1125 (Recreational therapists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Recreational therapists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.