They go to activity rooms to work with patients. They also work in recreation rooms or outside at a playing field or swimming pool. Therapists work closely with people of all ages who have varying degrees of disability. They generally work a 40-hour week. Some therapists work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Wages vary with level of training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies by the area of the country, number of years of experience, and employer. There were 480 people employed as recreational therapists in Indiana in 1998. It is estimated that between 1996 and 2006, about 48 jobs per year will need to be filled in this occupation. This number includes new jobs and jobs resulting from the replacement of current workers.