Recreation Therapist

Description:

PACE Recreational Therapists work with participants to restore motor, social and cognitive functioning, build confidence, develop coping skills, and integrate skills learned in treatment settings into community settings. Intervention areas vary widely and are based upon client interests. Examples of intervention modalities include creative arts (e.g., crafts, music, dance, drama, among others), sports, adventure programming, dance/movement, and leisure education.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Develops, implements, and posts a monthly calendar (of recreation activities) that meets the mental, physical and psycho-social needs of ESP participants as measured by ratings of the Activities Program in ESP’s consumer satisfaction survey, and feedback through Participant Council and Participant Advisory Council. Ensures that activities schedules include a variety of meaningful activities that match the individual interests and functional needs of ESP participants If not certified or eligible to be certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation of similar body, collaborates with an Occupational Therapist to ensure that group activities programs are consistent with participants’ level of cognitive, motor, balance and other functional statuses. Plans, attends and organizes outings and field trips to community events and incorporates same in activities calendar. Ensures that personal care assistants (PCAs) are trained in new activities. Assigns PCA’s to activity and personal care responsibilities consistent with individual competencies and roles. Conducts morning huddles Considers individual PCA interests and strengths when assigning activities responsibilities.

Qualifications and Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree consistent with qualifications for Therapeutic Recreation Certification from a recognized accrediting body such as the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. ; Bachelor’s degree in a related field including but not limited to, occupational therapy, music or art therapy with experience working in a social or recreational program; At least five years recent experience working in a social or recreational program, one of which was full-time in an activities program in a health care setting with responsibility for activities planning and management and has completed a certificate program in activities. Ability to clearly and concisely communicate with a culturally and educationally diverse participants, families, and staff. Bilingual a plus. Must be computer literate and able to utilize a variety of computer programs to appropriately document and communicate clinical and non-clinical information. Must be creative, innovative and able to organize and manage a variety of activities and responsibilities. Must be comfortable in functioning as part of an interdisciplinary team. Ability to supervise and develop direct care staff.

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