Recreation Therapist
How this pay compares
This posting does not state an hourly rate. Open recreational therapist jobs in California post a median of $33.69 an hour, the middle half $31–$41.26, across 8 jobs that state their pay. Recreational therapists employed in California earn a median of $47.20 an hour (source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025) (source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics).
Recreational therapists in California: pay by town and employer
The Mental Health & Social Work job market: pay, applicant demand and hiring, researched nightly
Mental health and social work jobs in our research
- How long these jobs stay listed: Still listed at 7 days 76.6%
- Applicant demand per open job on this site (1.00x is the average job): Index 0.61x · Clicks 32
- How often these jobs state their pay: Jobs stating any pay 59.0% · Stating an hourly rate 43.4%
From every open job we read and every apply click on this site, as of 5 Nov 2026. Every figure for Mental health and social work jobs
About the job
With traumatic brain injury, life changes in an instant. For us, there is no greater reward than easing human suffering and helping people put their lives back together. As a Recreational Therapist you will play a critical role in transforming lives and helping individuals regain their independence and quality of life.
At CNS, we are a community of "PATHfinders" who work together to find every path possible for our patients to reach their maximum independence and quality of life. We create a supportive work environment through selflessness, innovation, and hard work. We take work very seriously, but we also enjoy a great atmosphere of fun and professional development, and we are committed to promoting a rich environment for each other to thrive through collaboration and empowerment.
Pay Range $70,304 - $85,000
Responsibilities
As a Recreational Therapist, you will assist patients in the development of skills, knowledge and behaviors for daily living and community involvement. Together with clinical and residential rehabilitation, you will use a wide range of therapeutic activity and community-based interventions and techniques to improve the physical, cognitive, emotional, social, spiritual, and leisure functioning of patients. Work is full time during the weekdays, 7:30am-4:30pm. Work is performed at the clinic with some work at the residential site and in the community.
- After assessing patients, develops programs with measurable goals that incorporate specific abilities, tolerance, and interests into therapy to achieve optimal outcomes that transfer to real life situations.
- Uses creative healing methods such as art, exercise, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, vocational and community outings, and other modalities to help patients improve.
- Organizes and facilitates individual and group recreational programs using any one or combination of prescribed play, recreation, experiential activity, and education processes to improve the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual functioning and well-being of patients to enable a greater quality of life.
- Locates, develops, and stays current on clinical and community resources available to enhance patient programs and outcomes. Develops curriculum to enhance treatment. Teaches patients how to use community resources and recreational facilities.
Qualifications
Experience and Education
- Educational Background : Bachelor's Degree in Recreational Therapy or healthcare-related field required.
- Work Experience :
- Minimum of 2 – 5 years of related work experience required.
- Certification in Recreational Therapy is desired. Eligibility to sit for certification and maintaining certification is required.
- Membership in the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) is desirable.
- Must maintain a good driving record under the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Benefits Package Includes:
At CNS, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being and professional growth. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy as a full-time staff member:
- Paid Time Off : Enjoy generous paid time off to relax and recharge.
- Extended Sick Leave : Take the time you need to recover with extended sick leave.
- Insurance : Access to PPO medical, dental, life, and vision insurance starting the 1st of the month after hire.
- Paid Holidays : Celebrate with 9-10 paid holidays per year, including a floating personal observance day.
- 401(k) Plan : Plan for your future with our company matching 401(k) retirement savings plan.
- Professional License Reimbursement : Get reimbursed for your professional license fees.
- Continuing Education Assistance : Pursue further education with our continuing education assistance program.
- Daily Pay: access your earnings immediately after you complete your shift!
- LifeMart Benefits : As a valued member of our team, you have access to exclusive discounts and savings through LifeMart, a proprietary, members-only discount shopping website. LifeMart provides real savings on a wide range of products and services to help you manage everyday needs. Some of the benefits include:
- Travel : Discounts on flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages.
- Tickets : Savings on movie tickets, theme parks, and other entertainment options.
- Electronics : Deals on the latest gadgets, computers, and home electronics.
- Family Care : Discounts on childcare, eldercare, and pet care services.
- Wellness : Savings on gym memberships, fitness equipment, and wellness programs.
- Home & Auto : Discounts on home improvement services, appliances, and auto care.
- Financial and Legal : Savings on financial planning, tax services, and legal assistance.
- Apparel : Deals on clothing, shoes, and accessories from top brands.
- Flowers & Gifts : Discounts on flowers, gift baskets, and other special occasion items.
- Restaurants and Dining : Savings on dining out at popular restaurants.
Wisely Financial Services:
As part of our comprehensive benefits package, we are pleased to offer access to Wisely's financial services. These services are designed to provide flexibility and control over your finances, helping you manage your money more effectively and achieve your financial goals. Here are some of the key services offered by Wisely:
- Early Direct Deposit : Opt-in to receive your paychecks early through direct deposit.
- Cashback Rewards : Earn cashback rewards on purchases at participating merchants, accessible through the myWisely mobile app.
- Prepaid Debit Cards : Use Wisely's prepaid debit cards for everyday financial transactions.
Call to Action
Are you passionate about making a difference in people's lives? Join us at CNS and be part of a team that is dedicated to helping individuals with brain injuries find hope and independence. Apply now to become a Recreational Therapist and start your journey with us today!
I WANT IN!
Apply Now!
From Centre for Neuro Skills's job posting, checked 5 Nov 2026. The employer's own page is the final word on requirements and availability.
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About Centre for Neuro Skills
Centre for Neuro Skills hires therapists, nurses and mental health staff in Texas and California.
Hires in Texas, CaliforniaPay on its listings: 31.8% of its open jobs state an hourly rate
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