25 Recreational Therapist Interview Questions and Answers

Recreational therapists are healthcare professionals who work with patients of all ages who have physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. The goal of recreation therapy is to help patients improve their quality of life and reach their fullest potential.

Recreational therapists use a variety of activities to achieve these goals, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, and other leisure activities. If you’re interested in becoming a recreational therapist, you’ll need to go through an interview process. This guide will give you some ideas about what to expect and how to answer common recreational therapist interview questions.

1. Are you certified as a recreational therapist?

Employers may ask this question to determine if you have the necessary qualifications for the job. If you are not certified, they may want to know what steps you plan to take to become certified. You can answer honestly about your certification status and explain how you plan to achieve certification in the future.

Example: “Yes, I am certified as a recreational therapist. I have been practicing in this field for the past five years and have obtained my certification through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). During that time, I have gained extensive experience working with individuals of all ages and abilities to help them reach their therapeutic goals. I have also completed additional continuing education courses related to recreational therapy, such as those focusing on music therapy, art therapy, and outdoor recreation.

I believe that my knowledge and experience make me an ideal candidate for this position. My passion for helping others combined with my commitment to providing quality care makes me confident that I can be a valuable asset to your team.”

2. What are the most common disabilities you work with?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience working with a variety of disabilities. You can answer this question by listing the most common disabilities you’ve worked with and how you helped patients overcome them.

Example: “I have worked with a variety of disabilities in my career as a Recreational Therapist. The most common disabilities I work with are physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. For example, I have experience working with individuals who have cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical impairments.

Additionally, I am experienced in helping those with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health issues. Finally, I have had the opportunity to provide recreational therapy services to children and adults with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, ADHD, and intellectual disability.”

3. How do you create an inclusive environment for patients and clients?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you interact with patients and clients. This is an opportunity to show that you value diversity, inclusion and respect for others.

Example: “Creating an inclusive environment for patients and clients is a priority of mine as a Recreational Therapist. I believe that everyone should feel welcome and accepted regardless of their background, abilities, or beliefs. To ensure this, I strive to create an atmosphere of respect and understanding.

I start by getting to know my patients and clients on an individual level. This allows me to understand their needs better and provide the best care possible. I also make sure to use language that is respectful and non-judgmental when speaking with them. Furthermore, I take into consideration any special accommodations they may need in order to participate in activities.”

4. What is your process for identifying a patient’s or client’s goals and interests?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your assessment process. They want to know how you use the information you gather from patients and clients to create treatment plans that are individualized and effective. In your answer, describe a specific example of how you used a patient’s goals and interests to develop an effective plan for their care.

Example: “When it comes to identifying a patient or client’s goals and interests, I take a comprehensive approach. First, I like to get to know the individual on a personal level by engaging in conversation about their hobbies, past experiences, and other activities they enjoy. This helps me gain insight into what type of recreational activities may be most beneficial for them.

Next, I assess the individual’s physical and cognitive abilities to identify any limitations that need to be taken into consideration when creating an activity plan. Finally, I collaborate with the patient or client to determine which activities are best suited to meet their needs and help them reach their desired outcome. By taking this holistic approach, I am able to create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to each individual’s unique goals and interests.”

5. Provide an example of a time you helped a patient or client overcome an obstacle.

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your problem-solving skills and how you use them to benefit patients. Use examples from your previous experience that highlight your ability to overcome obstacles, as well as your interpersonal skills.

Example: “I recently worked with a client who had been struggling to overcome her anxiety. She was unable to leave the house and felt overwhelmed by social situations. I used a variety of recreational therapy techniques, such as art therapy and music therapy, to help her manage her anxiety. We also discussed relaxation strategies that she could use in stressful moments.

After several weeks of working together, my client began to make progress. She started attending group activities outside of the home and eventually gained enough confidence to attend events on her own. Seeing her progress was incredibly rewarding for both of us. It showed me how powerful recreational therapy can be when it comes to helping people overcome obstacles.”

6. If a patient or client is not enjoying an activity, how do you react?

Therapists often have to encourage patients and clients to try new activities. Employers want to know that you can help your patients or clients enjoy their time in therapy. Explain how you would approach this situation, especially if you have a specific strategy for encouraging enjoyment.

Example: “When a patient or client is not enjoying an activity, I take the time to understand why they are not enjoying it. It could be due to lack of interest in the activity itself, physical limitations, or any other number of reasons. Once I have identified the cause, I can then work with the patient or client to find an alternative activity that better suits their interests and abilities.

I also make sure to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients or clients so that they feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns. This helps me to ensure that all activities are enjoyable and beneficial for them. Finally, I strive to provide education and support throughout the process so that the patient or client can gain insight into how recreational therapy can help them reach their goals.”

7. What would you do if a patient or client was not making progress with their recreational therapy activities?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to challenging situations. In your answer, explain how you would identify the root cause of the issue and implement a solution that helps the patient or client make progress.

Example: “If a patient or client was not making progress with their recreational therapy activities, I would first assess the situation to determine what may be causing the lack of progress. This could include evaluating the activity itself and how it is being presented to the patient or client. It could also involve assessing any potential barriers that are preventing them from engaging in the activity.

Once I have identified the cause of the issue, I can then work on developing an appropriate solution. Depending on the situation, this could involve modifying the activity, providing additional support or resources, or finding alternative activities that better suit the individual’s needs. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the patient or client is able to make progress and benefit from the recreational therapy activities.”

8. How well do you communicate with patients and clients who have disabilities that impact communication?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your communication skills and how you interact with patients who have disabilities that impact their ability to communicate. Use examples from previous experiences in which you used alternative methods of communication, such as sign language or nonverbal cues, to help patients and clients understand what you’re saying.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with patients and clients who have disabilities that impact communication. I understand the importance of being patient, understanding, and empathetic when communicating with these individuals. I am also familiar with a variety of assistive technology and tools to help facilitate communication.

When working with this population, I take the time to get to know them on an individual level so that I can better understand their needs and preferences. This helps me to develop effective strategies for communication that are tailored to each person’s unique abilities and challenges. I always strive to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement or misunderstanding.”

9. Do you enjoy working with children? If so, what age groups do you prefer?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you are a good fit for their facility. If they have children who attend, it’s important that you enjoy working with them and understand how to best interact with them. You should also be able to work with other age groups as well.

Example: “Yes, I absolutely enjoy working with children. I have been a Recreational Therapist for the past five years and during that time I have had the opportunity to work with children of all ages. My favorite age group to work with is typically between 5-12 years old as they are often more open to new activities and experiences.

I believe that it is important to create an environment where children feel safe and comfortable so that they can explore their interests and develop their skills. I also strive to be creative in my approach when developing therapeutic activities for children so that they remain engaged and interested throughout the session.”

10. When working with a group of patients or clients, how do you determine who gets to participate in each activity?

This question can help interviewers understand how you prioritize your patients and their needs. It also helps them determine whether or not you have the ability to work with a team of other professionals. Your answer should show that you are able to collaborate with others, while still prioritizing the needs of each patient.

Example: “When working with a group of patients or clients, I take into consideration the individual needs and abilities of each person. I assess their physical, mental, emotional, and social capabilities to ensure that everyone is able to participate in activities safely and effectively. I also consider any special accommodations needed for certain individuals and make sure those are taken into account when planning activities. Finally, I strive to create an environment where all participants feel comfortable and included by providing options that are tailored to meet their unique interests and goals. This helps to foster engagement and encourages meaningful participation from everyone involved.”

11. We want to encourage our patients and clients to be active. How would you encourage a patient or client who isn’t active?

This question can help the interviewer understand your motivational skills and how you might encourage patients or clients to be more active. Use examples from previous experience where you helped a patient or client become more active, such as by encouraging them to walk around the hospital or clinic during their treatment or helping them find an exercise program that works for them.

Example: “As a Recreational Therapist, I understand the importance of encouraging patients and clients to be active. One way I would do this is by creating an individualized plan for each patient or client that takes into consideration their physical abilities, interests, and goals. This plan could include activities such as walking, swimming, biking, or any other activity they may enjoy.

I would also strive to make these activities fun and engaging. For example, if a patient enjoys music, I might suggest going on walks while listening to their favorite songs. If a patient prefers outdoor activities, I might suggest exploring nature trails in the area. By making activities enjoyable and tailored to the individual’s needs, I believe it will help motivate them to stay active.

In addition, I would provide support and encouragement throughout the process. I think it’s important to recognize small successes and celebrate milestones with the patient or client. This can help build confidence and motivation to keep going. Finally, I would ensure that the patient or client has access to the necessary resources and equipment needed to participate in recreational activities.”

12. Describe your process for evaluating a patient’s or client’s progress after an activity.

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you use your skills and knowledge as a recreational therapist. Your answer should show the interviewer that you can assess progress, make adjustments and evaluate outcomes for patients or clients.

Example: “When evaluating a patient’s or client’s progress after an activity, I begin by assessing the individual’s overall physical and mental wellbeing. This includes observing their body language, facial expressions, and verbal responses to determine if they are feeling relaxed or anxious. After this initial assessment, I will ask questions about how they felt during the activity and what they enjoyed most. From there, I can gauge whether the activity was successful in helping them reach their goals.

I also take into account any feedback from other staff members who may have been present during the activity. Finally, I document my observations and make notes of any changes that need to be made for future sessions. By taking all of these factors into consideration, I am able to accurately evaluate a patient’s or client’s progress after an activity.”

13. What makes you stand out from other recreational therapists?

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you view yourself in relation to others. They want to know what makes you unique, so share a quality that sets you apart from other candidates.

Example: “I believe my experience and commitment to the field of recreational therapy makes me stand out from other recreational therapists. I have been working in this profession for over five years, providing therapeutic recreation services to a variety of populations. During this time, I have developed strong relationships with clients and their families, as well as built an extensive network of professionals in the field.

In addition, I am dedicated to staying up-to-date on current trends and best practices in the field. I attend conferences and workshops regularly to stay informed about new developments and techniques. I also take advantage of online resources such as webinars and podcasts to further my knowledge. Finally, I am passionate about advocating for the rights of those receiving recreational therapy services and strive to ensure they receive the highest quality care possible.”

14. Which recreational therapy specialty areas are you interested in learning more about?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your passion for recreational therapy and how you plan to grow professionally. Use this opportunity to share any areas that interest you, such as working with children or athletes, and explain why they appeal to you.

Example: “I am interested in learning more about all the specialty areas of recreational therapy. I have experience working with a variety of populations, including seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses. In my current role, I specialize in geriatric recreation, but I’m eager to expand my knowledge and skillset by exploring other specialties such as aquatic therapy, music therapy, art therapy, and outdoor adventure therapy.

I believe that having an understanding of different therapeutic modalities is essential for providing comprehensive care. My goal is to become a well-rounded therapist who can offer clients a wide range of options to meet their individual needs. I am confident that I can bring this expertise to your organization and help create meaningful experiences for those we serve.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of recreational therapy?

This question can help the interviewer determine your priorities and how you might approach a client’s treatment. Your answer should show that you understand what recreational therapy is and why it’s important to clients.

Example: “The most important aspect of recreational therapy is the ability to create meaningful and engaging activities for clients. As a Recreational Therapist, I believe it is my responsibility to provide an enjoyable experience that encourages physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes creating activities that are tailored to each individual’s needs and interests, as well as providing guidance and support throughout the process.

I understand that recreation can be used to improve social skills, increase self-confidence, and develop problem solving abilities. It is also important to recognize how different activities can help people cope with stress, depression, anxiety, or other issues they may be facing. By taking into account all aspects of a person’s life, I am able to design programs that best meet their needs.”

16. How often do you update your CPR certification?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are committed to keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date. They want to know that you will stay current with the latest research, techniques and best practices in your field. In your answer, explain how you plan to keep your CPR certification current.

Example: “I take my professional development very seriously, so I make sure to update my CPR certification every two years. I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on best practices and safety protocols in recreational therapy, which is why I always ensure that my certifications are current. In addition to updating my CPR certification, I also regularly attend workshops and conferences related to recreational therapy to stay informed about new techniques and developments in the field.”

17. There is a new form of therapy that could help patients. How would you introduce it to your patients?

This question is a great way to assess your ability to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in therapy. It also shows that you are willing to try new things and adapt to change. When answering this question, make sure to explain why you would introduce it to patients and how you would do so.

Example: “As a Recreational Therapist, I understand the importance of providing my patients with the best possible care. When introducing new forms of therapy to them, it is important that I take the time to explain the benefits and potential outcomes of this form of therapy.

I would start by discussing the goals of the therapy and how it could help them reach their desired outcome. Then, I would provide an overview of what they can expect from the therapy, including any activities or exercises that may be involved. Finally, I would discuss any risks associated with the therapy and answer any questions they may have.”

18. Describe a time when you had to adjust your approach with a patient or client who was resistant to recreational therapy activities.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work with challenging patients. In your answer, try to highlight how you used your communication and problem-solving skills to help the patient or client overcome their resistance and complete the activity.

Example: “I recently had a patient who was resistant to recreational therapy activities. They were very uncooperative and unwilling to participate in any of the activities I suggested. After some careful consideration, I decided to adjust my approach by taking into account their individual needs and interests. I asked them questions about what they liked to do for fun and found out that they enjoyed playing board games.

So, I took this information and used it to create an activity tailored specifically to them. I set up a game night where we could play different board games together. This allowed me to engage with the patient on a more personal level and build trust between us. By the end of the session, the patient was much more open to participating in other recreational therapy activities.

This experience taught me the importance of being flexible when working with patients. Every person is unique and has different needs, so it’s important to be able to adjust your approach accordingly.”

19. Do you have experience working in an interdisciplinary team setting?

This question can help the interviewer determine how comfortable you are working with other professionals. It can also show them your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with others. Use examples from your experience in which you worked alongside other healthcare providers, such as physicians or nurses.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working in an interdisciplinary team setting. During my time as a Recreational Therapist, I worked closely with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech language pathologists to develop individualized treatment plans for patients. This allowed us to provide comprehensive care that was tailored to the patient’s needs. In addition, I had the opportunity to collaborate with other members of the healthcare team such as nurses, social workers, and physicians to ensure that our patients were receiving the best possible care. Working on this interdisciplinary team taught me how to effectively communicate with different professionals and understand their roles within the team. It also gave me insight into how each discipline can contribute to the overall success of the patient’s recovery.”

20. What strategies do you use to maintain professional boundaries?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to maintain appropriate boundaries with clients. This is especially important in a recreational therapy setting, as you will likely work with children and their families. You can answer this question by describing the strategies you use to ensure that you do not develop personal relationships with clients or their families.

Example: “I understand the importance of maintaining professional boundaries when working as a Recreational Therapist. I use several strategies to ensure that I remain within these boundaries at all times.

The first strategy is to always maintain an appropriate level of communication with clients. This means being respectful and courteous, while also setting clear expectations for their behavior. I also make sure to keep conversations focused on the therapeutic goals we are trying to achieve.

Another strategy I use is to be aware of my own personal biases and values. It’s important to recognize how they may affect the client’s experience and to take steps to minimize any potential conflicts.

Lastly, I strive to create a safe, comfortable environment where clients can feel free to express themselves without fear of judgement or criticism. This includes providing them with resources and support if needed.”

21. How do you handle situations where a patient or client is being disruptive during a session?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenging situations and whether you have the ability to remain calm under pressure. In your answer, try to highlight your problem-solving skills and emphasize that you are willing to take action when necessary.

Example: “When a patient or client is being disruptive during a session, I approach the situation with patience and understanding. First, I try to identify the underlying cause of their behavior by asking questions and listening to their responses. This helps me gain insight into what may be causing them distress. Once I have identified the root issue, I can then develop an appropriate plan of action that will help address the problem.

My ultimate goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients and clients so they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement. To do this, I use evidence-based therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and relaxation exercises to help manage disruptive behaviors. I also provide education on how to cope with difficult emotions in a healthy way. By doing this, I am able to help my patients and clients learn better ways to express themselves and ultimately improve their overall well-being.”

22. How would you go about creating a new recreational therapy program for a specific population?

This question can help the interviewer assess your organizational and leadership skills. Use examples from previous experience to highlight how you plan, organize and implement new programs or initiatives.

Example: “When creating a new recreational therapy program for a specific population, I would first start by researching the needs of that population. This could include looking into any existing programs and talking to other professionals in the field who have experience working with this population. After gathering all the necessary information, I would then create an individualized plan based on my findings.

I would also ensure that the program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the population while still being engaging and fun. This could involve incorporating activities such as music, art, sports, or outdoor recreation depending on what works best for the group. Finally, I would evaluate the program regularly to make sure it’s meeting the goals set out at the beginning and adjust accordingly if needed.”

23. How familiar are you with different adaptive equipment and tools used in recreational therapy?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your knowledge of the tools and equipment used in recreational therapy. They want to know that you have experience using these tools and can apply them effectively during a patient’s treatment. In your answer, describe any specific tools or equipment you’re familiar with and explain how you’ve used them in the past.

Example: “I am very familiar with the different adaptive equipment and tools used in recreational therapy. I have been working as a Recreational Therapist for the past 5 years, so I have had plenty of experience using these tools. During my time as a Recreational Therapist, I have become well-versed in the use of various types of adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, communication devices, and therapeutic aids. I also understand how to properly assess a patient’s needs and determine which type of adaptive equipment or tool would be best suited for them. In addition, I am knowledgeable about the proper maintenance and storage of this equipment and can provide instruction on its safe and effective use. Finally, I am passionate about helping people reach their goals through the use of recreational therapy and adaptive equipment, and I look forward to bringing that enthusiasm to this new job.”

24. What challenges have you faced as a recreational therapist?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience and how you overcame challenges. They want to know that you can handle difficult situations, but also that you’re willing to share them with others. In your answer, try to be honest while still being positive.

Example: “As a recreational therapist, I have faced many challenges. One of the most common challenges I’ve encountered is working with clients who are resistant to change or reluctant to participate in activities. To overcome this challenge, I focus on building trust and rapport with my clients by listening to their concerns and understanding their individual needs. I also strive to create an environment that encourages them to express themselves and feel comfortable participating in activities.

Another challenge I face as a recreational therapist is finding creative ways to engage clients in therapeutic activities. To address this issue, I use a variety of techniques such as music therapy, art therapy, and outdoor recreation. I also make sure to tailor each activity to the client’s interests and abilities so they can get the most out of it.”

25. Describe a situation in which you had to advocate for a patient’s or client’s needs.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you can use them to help patients or clients. In your answer, try to describe a situation in which you used your communication skills to advocate for someone else’s needs and the positive outcome of that interaction.

Example: “As a Recreational Therapist, I am passionate about advocating for my patients and clients. Recently, I was working with a patient who had been diagnosed with severe depression. Despite the fact that he was receiving treatment from his primary care physician, he was still struggling to find joy in life. After discussing his needs with him, I determined that engaging in recreational activities would be beneficial for him.

I advocated for this patient by speaking with his doctor and other members of his healthcare team to explain why recreational therapy could help him improve his quality of life. I also worked with the patient’s family to ensure they were on board with the plan. Finally, I created an individualized program tailored to his specific needs and interests. This included outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, as well as creative activities like painting and drawing.

The patient responded positively to the program and has since seen significant improvements in his mental health. He is now more engaged in life and is able to enjoy activities that he once found unenjoyable. This experience reinforced my belief that advocating for my patients and clients is essential to providing them with the best possible care.”