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Diversional Therapist

Diversional therapists provide recreational and leisure services for individuals in healthcare centres and in the community to encourage them to take part in activities, assist in their social development and promote a sense of wellbeing.

Diversional therapists work with a wide range of clients whose needs arise from ageing, physical or intellectual disabilities, mental illness or undergoing medical treatment.

They work alongside other health and community workers to help clients reach their full potential.

TASKS

Diversional therapists may perform the following tasks:

help clients to identify their preferred recreational activities
encourage and support clients to take part in activities suited to their particular needs and interests
provide information on resources available within the local community and from associated agencies
perform administrative duties
arrange for the purchase of leisure and recreational supplies and equipment
organise leisure and recreational events
train and supervise volunteers
encourage interaction between clients and the community

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy helping and interacting with people
interested in leisure and recreation as a way of promoting wellbeing
sensitive to the needs of a wide range of individuals
able to work as part of a team
able to coordinate and lead group activities

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a diversional therapist you usually have to complete a degree in health science at university with a major in leisure and health or therapeutic recreation. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12 with English.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Before undertaking clinical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a National Police Certificate, a Provide First Aid Certificate, immunisations and a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Graduates of the degree courses may be eligible for membership of Diversional Therapy Australia.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Diversional therapists work with individuals and groups in a range of settings, including aged-care facilities, respite care, community health centres and retirement villages. Diversional therapy programmes are also offered in the geriatric, psychiatric and rehabilitation departments of public and private hospitals, as well as in correctional institutions, often in association with occupational therapy services.

Diversional therapists may also work in agencies and institutions that provide special services for clients with visual, hearing and speech disabilities. These include Vision Australia, MS Australia and the Australian Red Cross. They may also work in private practices or consultancies.

Job opportunities depend on the number of people living in aged-care facilities and residential care institutions, the number of aged citizens and funding for institutions and programmes.