About the Job

NOC: 3144
Occupation: Recreational Therapists and Other Specialized Therapists
Category: Health Occupations

Nature Of Work:

Art therapists, music therapists, and recreational therapists are part of a group of specialized therapists who use techniques such as art, athletics, dance, drama, music, gymnastics, movement, or recreation to aid in the treatment of mental and physical disabilities and illnesses.   They assess patients' current and potential functioning levels and prepare treatment plans. Patients must be observed and analyzed as the treatment sessions are being implemented. They may also develop therapy programs for the general patient population or in the community.

Skills:

To work in recreational therapy, you must have a genuine and sensitive interest in people and their ability to achieve. You must be able to communicate effectively with people and demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, good judgement, patience, and self-discipline. Therapists must be creative and unique in their approach to each client. The ability to inspire confidence and to motivate clients is important. A strong sense of responsibility, good judgement, and communication skills are also necessary.

Other Considerations:

Those not employed with public institutions or agencies are often self-employed in a private or group practice.   There is a distinct training path for each of these occupations and no movement between these occupations.