The recreational therapy work force: One county’s view

The Occupational Outlook Handbook for 2010-2011 edition states a growth rate of approximately 15 percent for recreational therapists throughout the country through 2018. This article explores the growth rate examining one county in one state. Washington State was chosen because data for four therapist types, occupational, physical, recreational, and speech were available to view and compare. Information regarding various aspects of employment for recreational therapists is examined. Estimated occupational employment for 2018 for recreational therapists in Washington State and Spokane County are included with a comparison for occupational employment of physical, occupational, and speech therapists in the same state and county. Both the state and county projections for the growth rate for recreational therapists are above 15 percent.