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Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Recreational Therapists
Description
Design, deliver, and evaluate medically approved therapeutic recreation programs in hospitals, rehab centers, long-term care, and community settings. Use evidence-based leisure interventions—such as sports, arts, music, drama, and outings—to improve physical, cognitive, social, and emotional functioning. Assess abilities and interests, set goals, and adapt activities to promote recovery, participation, and quality of life.
  • • Assess clients’ abilities, interests, risks, and needs using interviews, records, and standardized tools.
  • • Develop individualized treatment plans with measurable goals and activity-based interventions.
  • • Conduct group and individual sessions to enhance physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health.
  • • Instruct clients in adaptive techniques, assistive devices, and leisure skills suited to their goals.
  • • Observe and document participation, responses, and outcomes; modify interventions as needed.
  • • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to plan, coordinate, and evaluate care.
  • • Educate and motivate clients and caregivers to pursue healthy leisure and community participation.
  • • Plan and facilitate community reintegration outings, special events, and therapeutic programs.
  • • Promote safety, accessibility, and infection control; manage risks during activities.
  • • Maintain accurate notes, progress reports, and outcome data; present findings to the team.
  • • Develop transition and discharge plans with referrals to community resources and follow-up activities.
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Related Pathways
Healthcare & Human Services View
Source
Tasks & skills: O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge). Learn more
Sources & Standards: This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
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