Launch Your Career as a Recreation Therapist with the VA

Are you a dedicated therapist looking to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated and compassionate Recreation Therapist to join the Mental Health team at the Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center. This role is a unique opportunity to provide evidence-based, clinical care in a world-class, Level 1A tertiary teaching facility.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Therapist, your day-to-day will involve:

Assessment: Evaluating functional, cognitive, and social strengths and limitations.
Treatment Planning: Designing individualized, measurable goals to promote recovery.
Intervention: Leading group and one-on-one sessions, including leisure education and relaxation-based activities.
Collaboration: Working alongside interdisciplinary team members to support Veteran wellness.
Documentation: Maintaining accurate clinical records in the electronic health record system.

Comparison: Standard vs. Clinical Therapeutic Approaches

Feature	Conventional Recreation	VA Clinical Recreation Therapy
Focus	Social Entertainment	Functional Recovery
Setting	Community Centers	Acute Mental Health Facilities
Documentation	Low Complexity	High (Evidence-Based Reporting)
Interdisciplinary	Minimal	High (Psychiatrists, Nurses, Social Workers)

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in therapeutic recreation.
Certification: Must hold a current CTRS certification.
Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Background: Ability to pass a federal background investigation.

Salary Overview

The GS-11 position offers a competitive salary range of $78,972 to $102,669 per year, reflecting the clinical rigor and professional responsibilities of the role.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous retirement matching through the Thrift Savings Plan, and substantial annual and sick leave accruals.

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your resume highlights specific clinical outcomes rather than just job duties. Use the official VA resume template provided in the job announcement to ensure your application passes initial screenings.

Joining the Atlanta VA team means more than just a job; it is a commitment to serving our nation's heroes. If you are a qualified Recreation Therapist ready to elevate your clinical practice, we encourage you to apply by September 24, 2026.

Note: All federal applicants must complete the online questionnaire via the official USAJobs portal to be considered.

Why This Recreation Therapist Job Matters

Empower Veteran recovery and wellness through creative, evidence-based therapeutic interventions at the prestigious Atlanta VA Medical Center.

Recreation Therapist Job Overview

The Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Recreation Therapist to join our Mental Health team. In this clinical role, you will design and implement comprehensive therapeutic programs that support the rehabilitation, social functioning, and overall quality of life for our nation's Veterans. This is an exceptional opportunity to work within a Complexity Level 1A teaching hospital, utilizing cutting-edge approaches to mental health care while making a profound, measurable difference in the lives of those who have served.

Requirements for Recreation Therapist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Bachelor's degree or higher in therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure with an emphasis in therapeutic recreation.
Current certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) by the NCTRC.
Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Completion of a background and security investigation.
Mandatory participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must be able to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Therapist

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level.
Expertise in clinical reasoning to adapt assessment tools for complex psychiatric diagnoses.
Proficiency in interpreting provider referrals and clinical consultations.
Demonstrated ability to document patient progress and intervention outcomes in an electronic health record system.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Competitive federal retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Opportunities for professional development and training within a teaching hospital environment.
✓Life insurance coverage options.
✓Flexible spending accounts and other employee wellness initiatives.

💡 How to Apply Recreation Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Therapist Job

Create or log in to your account on the official federal hiring portal.
Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and any applicable documents like DD-214 or professional licenses.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 24, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in recreation therapy to avoid assumptions by the hiring panel.
The VA uses specific documentation for clinical roles; ensure you use the provided resume template to remain compliant.
Review your application for accuracy before submitting to avoid disqualification due to missing information.
If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you upload your DD-214 and any other relevant preference documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Recreation Therapist at the Atlanta VA?

You will conduct clinical assessments, develop individualized treatment plans, and lead therapeutic groups to improve physical, mental, and social functioning for Veterans in an acute mental health setting.

Can I apply if I do not currently have my CTRS certification?

Candidates must generally hold the certification. Limited exceptions exist for temporary appointments at lower grade levels for those nearing certification, but it is a strictly required credential for long-term placement.

What does the salary range look like?

This position is set at the GS-11 level, with a salary range of $78,972 to $102,669 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The Atlanta VA Healthcare System provides a full spectrum of services, including surgery, mental health, and long-term care, fostering an environment where innovation and clinical excellence are standard.