Recreational Therapists
Career Snapshot
A recreational therapist is rewarded for minor victories that make a great impact in the life of a patient: the smile of a stroke survivor who discovers she can move her stiff, constricted hand; the pride of a psychiatric ward patient who develops a work of art.
With America's ageing population comes a renewed emphasis on long-term care. As a result, more physical and psychological rehabilitation will be required in the coming years. They employ a number of strategies to assist persons with impairments, illnesses, or other issues in using their minds, hands, feet, and entire bodies.
A recreational therapist can help someone who is discouraged by a difficult endeavour by using movement, games, art, and music. Though experience in some part of amusement is desirable, this is a health care job. Employment can be obtained at hospitals, rehabilitation centres, adult day service centres, or school districts assisting special education departments; alternatively, you may be assigned by a physician to visit a recovering patient at home.
Certified therapeutic recreation professionals must have a bachelor's degree, pass an exam, and complete a 360-hour internship. Internships are frequently included as part of academic work in college programmes. If you are patient, diplomatic, persuasive, and creative, this job path allows you to make a positive effect in many people's lives.