Diversional Therapist
SOC 29-1125.00 · ESCO 3259 · OSCA 411331
Role snapshot
Overview
Plans and runs recreational and creative activities for people in aged care, disability, or rehabilitation settings to promote social engagement, wellbeing, and quality of life. This involves assessing client needs, developing tailored programs, facilitating group and individual sessions, and evaluating outcomes to enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
Significantly improves the quality of life for individuals facing health challenges by fostering social connection, promoting independence, and providing meaningful engagement through therapeutic activities.
On the job
- Assess client needs and interests to develop individualised and group activity programs
- Plan, organise, and facilitate a variety of therapeutic activities, including arts and crafts, music, games, exercise, and community outings
- Adapt activities and equipment to meet the diverse physical, cognitive, and emotional needs of clients
- Document client progress, participation, and responses to activities, adjusting plans as necessary
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, families, and caregivers to ensure holistic client care
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Diversional Therapy, Leisure and Health, or a related field.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Diversional Therapist
Allied Health
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SIR
Individuals with strong social interests who enjoy helping others, combined with investigative tendencies for assessment and planning, and realistic skills for hands-on activity facilitation, thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Open-minded
Explores diverse activities and creative approaches to meet varied client needs and interests.
Organised
Manages multiple activity programs, client schedules, and documentation with precision and reliability.
Engaging
Energetically interacts with clients, motivating participation and fostering a positive group environment.
Empathetic
Understands and responds to the emotional and physical needs of clients with compassion and patience.
Resilient
Maintains composure and effectiveness when working with challenging client behaviors or emotional situations.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations through creative and engaging activities.
- Those who enjoy a mix of direct client interaction, program planning, and team collaboration in a healthcare setting.
- People seeking a career where empathy, patience, and adaptability are highly valued.
Watch out for
- Can be emotionally demanding, requiring resilience when working with clients facing health challenges or difficult behaviors.
- Requires meticulous documentation and administrative tasks alongside direct client interaction.
- Occasional weekend work or community outings may be required, impacting work-life balance.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Diversional Therapist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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