Recreation Therapist Duties and Responsibilities: Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. Salary: The average yearly pay is $38,370 Education: Most recreational therapists need a bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field. Recreational therapists typically need a bachelor's degree . Many employers require therapists to be certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. Demand for this particular career: 7% Reflection: i wouldn't want to be a Recreation Therapist because it doesn't interest me.