RECREATIONAL THERAPY IS ONE OF the most popular fields in the healthcare industry. It is not surprising considering recreational therapists are paid to have fun with their patients. Recreational therapy is exactly what it sounds like - using recreation and leisure activities as a therapeutic device. For example, horseback riding can offer numerous benefits to a teenager with Cerebral Palsy. It can improve physical functionality and neurological connections, provide opportunities for social inclusion, and overcome depression through freedom of movement. Adaptive swimming, one of the most common forms of recreational therapy, is a safe, low-impact way to regain strength after a heart attack, develop motor skills in children with disabilities, or treat the cognitive and emotional effects of Autism. The possibilities are endless, but the overall concept is that recreational activities can better a person's quality of life. Recreational therapists work with patients of all ages, with a broad range of emotional, cognitive, or physical illnesses or injuries. They do more than simply play. They carefully assess each patient's situation by reviewing medical records, consulting with the medical team, meeting with family members, and talking to the patient. Based on the patient's goals and interests, the therapist will develop a treatment plan designed specifically for that individual. It may involve any kind of activity - art, drama, music, dance, sports, games, or community outings. Once the plan is in place, regular treatment sessions begin using fun stuff to help improve their condition. Most recreational therapists work in hospitals, skilled nursing care facilities, or assisted living centers. Many work in VA facilities, helping veterans with emotional issues like PTSD or physical disabilities like amputations. Recreational therapy is extremely popular in nursing homes where the elderly need help keeping up their fine motor skills, brain function, and mental well-being. Recreational therapists can also be found working in school systems, prisons, halfway houses, special education departments, parks and recreation departments, and outpatient centers for substance abuse or rehabilitation. A bachelor's degree is required to become a certified recreational therapist. If you are not ready to spend four years in college, there is an alternative. It only takes two years to earn an associate degree, which is the minimum requirement for an entry-level position. However, an associate degree does not qualify you for certification, and without certification opportunities for pay raises and advancement are limited. A certified recreational therapist earns an average yearly income of roughly $50,000. Without a bachelor's degree and certification, the best you can expect is around $30,000. It is also possible to enter the field as a recreational therapy aide with no more than a high school diploma. This is a good way to experience what the work is really like before committing to the necessary training. Recreational therapy is a career that is both enjoyable and challenging. You will be paid to have fun while helping people achieve a better quality of life. It offers variety and flexibility - your training will prepare you to work with any population and build on your interests. If you are looking for a career in the healthcare field where patients will be happy to see you, read on.