Recreational Therapist

About This Role

This full-time position involves providing therapeutic recreation-based treatment programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The role focuses on individual and group therapy, assessment, and collaboration with paraprofessional staff to foster participant growth. It suits a Certified Recreational Therapist dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Responsibilities

• Provide therapeutic recreation-based treatment program opportunities, including individual and group therapy, in a safe, effective manner to all program participants
• Complete assessment/evaluation in the areas of Recreational Therapy upon admission for all program participants
• Work directly with paraprofessional staff to facilitate training and program participant growth in the areas of Recreational Therapy
• Assist in the development of the rehabilitation plan of care to meet the needs of each program participant
• Communicate with the program participant, family, and funders as needed regarding participant status and need of services
• Remain current and compliant with federal, state, and accrediting body regulations and standards
• Adhere to work practices consistent with Mentor mission, policies, and procedures
• Adhere to code of ethics, standards of practice, and continuing education requirements of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)
• Procure and maintain all recreational equipment to assure safe and appropriate use by program participants and staff
• Advocate and educate staff, program participants, and families in the areas of recreational therapy and therapeutic recreation
• Maintain best practice methods through continued education coursework

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Recreational Therapy
• Two years of experience in a rehabilitation environment and/or work with persons with neurological and developmental deficits
• Certification of CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist)
• Knowledge of rehabilitative techniques relative to recreation for persons with diverse neurological impairment
• Ability to interpret evaluations from various disciplines (Neuropsychology, Occupational/Speech/Physical Therapies) and understand the relevance to your practice
• Ability to handle stressful situations in a calm, professional manner
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion
• Exceptional communication skills with an ability to establish trust and rapport quickly
• A good listener with an ability to empathize while still providing guidance

Benefits

• Full compensation/benefits package for full-time employees
• 401(k) with company match