Recreational Therapists

Experience as a volunteer or part-time aide, along with education and work experience, are needed to obtain certification. 

Most people become interested in recreation therapy because they have compassion for those who need help. To be a successful recreational therapist, you must be kind and gentle when providing therapy to clients, as much as you should enjoy and be enthusiastic about the activities in which you involve your clients. You will also need patience and a positive attitude. Since this is people-oriented work, therapists must be able to relate to many different people in a variety of settings. They must be able to deal assertively and politely with other health care workers, such as doctors and nurses, as well as with the clients themselves and their families. In addition, successful therapists must be creative and have strong communication and listening skills in order to develop and explain activities to patients.