Department of Civil Service

Health and Human Services - Therapy

Salary Range

NYC Metro - From $53,765 to $67,780
Rest of State - From $50,678 to $64,693

(Salary may differ from what is listed for an agency and/or location. See HELP job postings for specific salary.)

Career Ladder Information

Below is a listing of titles that are most commonly used as steps for upward mobility for this title series.

As a Recreation Therapist you would plan and conduct activities for client/patient groups, working individually or as a member of a treatment team or treatment program. You would analyze and report behavioral patterns to a team leader or other supervisor, verbally or in medical records. As a treatment team member, you would participate in team meetings, recreation/leisure assessment and evaluation. In addition, you may be required to requisition, store and maintain equipment and supplies. The goal of each program is to bring about positive change in a client’s/patient’s mental, physical and/or social behavior.

• Helen Hayes Hospital
• Veterans Home At Montrose
• Veterans Home At Oxford
• Office for OPWDD People W Dev Disab
• Office of Addiction Services and Supports
• Office of Mental Health
• Veterans Home at NYC

Either 1. a bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation;

Or 2. a bachelor's degree in Recreation, Physical Education or Adaptive Physical Education AND one year of experience in planning and administering a therapeutic recreation program* which involved developing and coordinating therapeutic recreational activities for geriatric patients/residents, individuals with developmental disabilities, individuals with psychiatric disabilities, individuals that are physically challenged, or individuals in treatment for chemical dependency;

Or 3. current credentials as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) issued by the National Council For Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC), 7 Elmwood Drive, New City, NY 10956. For further information you may contact them at (845) 639-1439 or at www.NCTRC.org

Or 4. current licensure by NYS as a Creative Arts Therapist. For information about licensure, visit www.op.nysed.gov or call (518) 474-3817.