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A recreational therapist is in charge of improving the general quality of life for those who are ill or have a disability.
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Recreational Therapist SalaryFor those who have a disability or are ill, a recreational therapist provides a combination of treatments and recreational activities that are designed to both help with the condition and improve the general quality of life of the patient. This can include everything from acute exercise regiments to dance, arts and crafts, sports, and various types of games. The majority of the activities a recreational therapist plans are more to improve the quality of life in the patient, and not to actually treat the medical condition they are afflicted with.
These activities are designed to help build confidence in the patient, reduce the rates of depression and emotional distress, and even help to recover basic motor skills. Many recreational therapists find work in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation centers, and as independent contractors, working on a client to client basis.  To become a recreational therapist, you will need to get an appropriate degree, typically a bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or in therapeutic recreation. These degrees are offered at most colleges, universities, and community colleges. Through your training, you will learn about the different medical conditions that your skills will work on, and how certain activities help certain conditions.
Some states will require licensing for recreational therapists, but this varies from state to state. There are also a number of certification programs, while they are not required to work as a recreational therapist, are highly recommended. Many employers prefer to hire therapists who have certifications. Around 75 percent of professional recreational therapists have at least one certification. The median recreational therapist salary is $35,000, but the normal salary range for a recreational therapist is between $26,000 and $45,000. This range represents around 75 percent of the work force. The average salary for a recreational therapist is $35,500.
Recreational therapists who work for the government or in hospitals generally make more, while those who work in nursing homes or community care centers tend to make less. Being a recreational therapist can be very rewarding. Using a series of skills, you will help to improve the standard quality of life for many individuals.
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