How much does a Recreational Therapist make?
Recreational therapists help people who are sick, injured, or disabled. They use activities like games, art, and sports to improve their health. This job can be very rewarding. The average yearly salary for a recreational therapist is around $83,000. This means most people in this job earn between $66,000 and $104,000 each year.
The salary can change based on where you work and how much experience you have. Some recreational therapists work in hospitals, schools, or nursing homes. Others might work in private practices. Experience also plays a big role. New therapists might start at the lower end of the salary range. As they gain more experience, they can earn more. Some therapists even reach salaries over $130,000 a year. This shows that with hard work and dedication, there is good earning potential in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Recreational Therapist?
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $127,744
In Stockton, professionals can find rewarding roles in healthcare facilities. The city offers a variety of opportunities to work with diverse populations. Companies like Kaiser Permanente provide a supportive environment for growth.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $114,365
Bakersfield offers a chance to make a difference in community health. The city's healthcare sector is growing, with opportunities in both hospitals and private clinics. Adventist Health is a notable employer in the area.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $110,570
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for those in the field. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and opportunities. Major employers like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center provide extensive resources for professional development.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $108,228
Houston is a bustling city with many healthcare facilities. The city offers a range of opportunities to work with different patient groups. Memorial Hermann Health System is a leading employer in the area.
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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $107,284
Jackson offers a welcoming environment for healthcare professionals. The city's healthcare sector is expanding, with many opportunities for growth. St. Dominic's Hospital is a key employer in the region.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $107,161
Miami provides a dynamic setting for those in the field. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and opportunities. Baptist Health South Florida is a major employer in the area.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $107,117
Dallas offers a variety of opportunities in the healthcare sector. The city's growing population provides many chances to make a difference. Baylor Scott & White Health is a leading employer in the region.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $105,033
Virginia Beach offers a supportive environment for healthcare professionals. The city's healthcare facilities provide many opportunities for growth and development. Sentara Healthcare is a notable employer in the area.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $104,981
Charlotte provides a range of opportunities in the healthcare sector. The city's growing population offers many chances to make a positive impact. Atrium Health is a leading employer in the region.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $102,398
San Jose offers a vibrant setting for those in the field. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and opportunities. Stanford Health Care is a major employer in the area.
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What are the best companies a Recreational Therapist can work for?
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Alliant Personnel Resources
Average Salary: $124,000
Alliant Personnel Resources offers rewarding Recreational Therapist jobs. They operate in various locations, providing diverse opportunities. Their focus on employee well-being and professional growth makes it a top choice for many.
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Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $94,420
Complete Therapies, L.L.C. provides excellent Recreational Therapist positions. They work in multiple locations, offering a supportive environment. Their commitment to quality care and employee satisfaction stands out.
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Rehab Without Walls
Average Salary: $90,040
Rehab Without Walls offers competitive salaries for Recreational Therapists. They operate in various locations, providing a dynamic work environment. Their innovative approach to therapy makes it a great place to work.
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Collage Rehabilitation Partners
Average Salary: $87,855
Collage Rehabilitation Partners provides rewarding Recreational Therapist jobs. They have locations in several areas, offering diverse opportunities. Their focus on patient care and employee development is commendable.
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University of Maryland Medical System
Average Salary: $68,915
The University of Maryland Medical System offers solid Recreational Therapist positions. They operate in multiple locations, providing a stable work environment. Their dedication to healthcare excellence is evident.
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Fairfax Behavioral Health
Average Salary: $68,060
Fairfax Behavioral Health provides good Recreational Therapist jobs. They work in various locations, offering a supportive work culture. Their focus on mental health care is a key aspect of their services.
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North Spring Behavioral Healthcare
Average Salary: $67,832
North Spring Behavioral Healthcare offers decent Recreational Therapist positions. They operate in multiple locations, providing a stable work environment. Their focus on behavioral health care is notable.
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New York State Office of Mental Health
Average Salary: $65,809
The New York State Office of Mental Health provides good Recreational Therapist jobs. They have locations across the state, offering diverse opportunities. Their commitment to mental health care is strong.
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Mission Community Hospital
Average Salary: $65,304
Mission Community Hospital offers solid Recreational Therapist positions. They operate in several locations, providing a supportive work environment. Their focus on community health care is commendable.
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Liberty Healthcare Corporation
Average Salary: $63,992
Liberty Healthcare Corporation provides decent Recreational Therapist jobs. They work in various locations, offering a stable work environment. Their dedication to healthcare services is evident.
How to earn more as a Recreational Therapist?
A Recreational Therapist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying positions. For example, becoming certified in areas like aquatic therapy or art therapy can attract employers willing to pay more for these skills. Continuing education also helps stay current with the latest techniques and trends, making a therapist more valuable.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary increases. Working in diverse settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practices can provide a well-rounded skill set. Each environment offers unique challenges and learning opportunities, enhancing a therapist's resume. Networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can connect therapists with potential employers and peers.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Recreational Therapist:
- Specialized Certifications: Obtain certifications in areas like aquatic therapy or art therapy.
- Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and trends in the field.
- Diverse Experience: Work in various settings to gain a well-rounded skill set.
- Networking: Attend conferences and join professional organizations to connect with potential employers.
- Professional Development: Pursue advanced degrees or additional training to enhance qualifications.
