Recreational Therapist

Job Overview

This Recreational Therapist position is all about helping people improve their quality of life through purposeful leisure activities. You'll design and lead programs that use recreation as a tool for recovery, rehabilitation, and personal growth. The work typically takes place in healthcare settings or community based organizations around Indianapolis, IN.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assess individual needs. You'll evaluate patients' physical, emotional, and social functioning to determine what types of recreational activities will benefit them most.
• Plan and facilitate group sessions. Think arts and crafts, sports, music therapy, gardening, or outings into the community. Each session has a therapeutic goal attached to it.
• Document progress. You'll write progress notes and adjust treatment plans when something isn't working. It's not just about having fun; it's about measurable outcomes.
• Collaborate with other therapists. You'll coordinate with physical therapists, social workers, and nurses to make sure your recreational goals align with the overall treatment plan.
• Maintain equipment and supplies. From board games to adaptive sports gear, you'll keep everything organized and safe to use.

Requirements

• Certification or licensure. In most states, you need to be a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or hold a state license. Some roles in Indianapolis, IN may accept related certifications with relevant experience.
• Education. A bachelor's degree in recreational therapy, therapeutic recreation, or a closely related field is standard.
• Experience with special populations. You should have worked with people who have mental health conditions, physical disabilities, or age related impairments.
• Physical stamina. You'll be on your feet, leading activities, and sometimes assisting with mobility. It's not a desk job.
• Creativity and adaptability. Plans change. Patients have bad days. You need to pivot without getting frustrated.

What It's Like in This Role

The work environment in Indianapolis, IN varies by employer; some are clinical and structured, others are more community focused and flexible. You'll typically work as part of a care team, which means you're not isolated. There's regular communication with other professionals who share your patients. The tools you'll use range from assessment software to actual recreational equipment like sports gear or art supplies. Schedules can be demanding; evening or weekend hours aren't uncommon, especially when working with patients who have day jobs or family commitments.

Why You'll Like This Opportunity

You're not stuck in a cubicle. Each day brings different patients and different activities. There's real room to grow; whether that means moving into a supervisory role, specializing in a type of therapy, or shifting to a different employer in Indianapolis, IN that fits your style better. You'll also pick up transferable skills in counseling, program management, and patient advocacy.

Schedule & Work Type

Most positions are full time, typically 35 to 40 hours per week, though part time roles exist. You'll usually work onsite in hospitals, rehab centers, or nursing homes. Remote work is rare for this role since it's hands on by nature. Some employers in Indianapolis, IN offer compressed workweeks or flexible start times.

How to Apply

Click the Apply Now button to be redirected to the employer's application system. If that link is unavailable, you'll see similar Recreational Therapist openings in Indianapolis, IN to explore.

Disclaimer

JobXi is a job listing platform and not the employer for this role. Job availability and details may change at any time. Any external site you visit will have its own privacy policies and terms.

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.