Recreation Therapist Jobs in Virginia
A Recreation Therapist, also known as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, utilizes treatment services and recreation activities to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals. They interact with diverse patient populations from children to the elderly, with a broad range of health conditions, such as developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, and physical illnesses or injuries. Recreation Therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for individuals in institutions, clinical environments, or community settings.
To become a Recreation Therapist, one must possess a combination of hard and soft skills. These include excellent interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, creativity, and adaptability. They should have a strong understanding of human anatomy, disability issues, and therapeutic theories. Additionally, they need to be physically fit, as the job often involves physical activities. A bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field is typically required. Most employers prefer candidates who are certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). Before becoming a Recreation Therapist, a person may have roles such as a Recreation Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, or Occupational Therapist Assistant.
Community Offsite Events Coordinator (Park and Recreation Specialist I)
- Fairfax, VA
- 6 hours ago
- Fairfax, VA
- 6 hours ago
recreation, or a closely related field; plus two years of related experience in recreation center, park, athletic field, golf course operations, or community-based program coordination or a related...
Recreation Specialist II - Senior Programs Bookmark this Posting Print Preview | Apply for this Job Position Details Position Information Working Title of Vacant PositionRecreation Specialist II -...
Community Offsite Events Coordinator (Park and Recreation Specialist I)
- Reston, VA
- 2 days ago
- Reston, VA
- 2 days ago
recreation, or a closely related field; plus two years of related experience in recreation center, park, athletic field, golf course operations, or community-based program coordination or a related...
recreation activities for clients in the residential treatment program to enhance their physical, social and emotional well-being....
Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Training & development Vision insurance Ellie Mental Health is hiring an Art Therapist for its Old Town Alexandria, Virginia...
Will carry a case load, develop and implement therapeutic activity sessions, and complete all related documentation....
Recreation Certification Two (2) years experience providing Recreation/Activities Therapy....
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification required or ability to obtain this certification within 1 year....
This position is that of Afloat Recreation Specialist (NAF Civilian position) on board ships worldwide. The primary purpose of this position also known as "Fun Boss" is to plan, coordinate,...
Recreation Therapist The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia United States, Virginia, Manassas Jun 03, 2025 Recreation Therapist Job Code: RE1486 Part Time | The schedule alternates bi-weekly...
Title: Recreation Therapist - #WWRW0084 State Role Title: Therapist II Hiring Range: Anticipated Starting Salary $50,107 Pay Band: 4 Agency: Dept for Aging & Rehab Svcs Location: Wilson Wkfc Rehab Ctn...
Registry, or American Occupational Therapy Association) is required upon hire: -Art Therapist -Music Therapist -Recreation Therapist -Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist CJW Medical Center is...
Music Therapist | The Pavilion at Williamsburg Place | Williamsburg, Virginia About the Job: The Therapist I is a part of the multidisciplinary team responsible for providing direct clinical...
Establishes goals and objectives for music therapy treatment, considering one's needs, capabilities, interests, and overall therapeutic value....
The City of Norfolk Department of Parks & Recreation is seeking a Recreational specialist that is responsible for developing and implementing fitness programs, leading exercise classes, and...
Demographic Data for Virginia
Moving to Virginia? Find some basic demographic data about Virginia below.
Recreation Therapist Online Courses and Training Opportunities
Title Synonyms
Users interested in this job title also searched for the following job titles
Salary for Recreation Therapist Jobs in Virginia
Required or preferred licenses and certifications for Recreation Therapist positions.
Highest Education Level
Recreation Therapists in Virginia offer the following education backgroundQualifications / Skill Sets
The following top skills are often required or desired to land a Recreation Therapist position
- Swimming
- Certified Lifeguard
- Dance
- Gymnastics
- Water Safety Instructor
- Events
- CPR First Aid
- Eating Disorders
- Aquatics
- Officiating
- Music Therapy
- Relaxation
- Gait Training
- Treatment Planning
- Neuromuscular Therapy
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Art Therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Anxiety
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Therapeutic
- Interventions
- Exercise
- Developmental Disabilities
- Yoga
- Masters
- Outpatient
- Psychiatry
- Acute Care
- Discharge Planning
- Trauma
- Geriatrics
- Behavioral Health
- Fitness
- Music
- Mental Health
- Patient Care
- Wellness
- Basic Life Support
- Masters In Education
- Nursing
- First Aid
- Counseling
- Referrals
- Health Care
- Interviewing
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
- Collaboration
- Documentation
- Employee Development
- Bachelor's Degree
- Regulations
- Policy Development
- Research Skills
- Organization
- Customer Service
- Scheduling
- Leadership
- Communication Skills
Other Career Titles
Here are some other career titles that require similar skills
Recreation Therapist Related Career Advice Articles

How to Become a Physical Therapist
Wondering how to become a physical therapist? Use this guide to learn about what physical therapists do, how long it takes to be a physical therapist, and even the average physical therapist salary.
Read article »
What Employers Look for When Hiring for Therapist Jobs
Ready to launch your career in professional therapy? Find out what you can do to stand out to employers and get one step closer to becoming a therapist.
Read article »
Which Physical Therapy Career Path is Right for You?
Just beginning your physical therapist career? Learn about the different types of physical therapy and choose the right physical therapy career path for you.
Read article »