Recreation Therapist

Lakeridge Health; Oshawa; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in Oshawa is seeking a Recreation Therapist to work collaboratively in supporting clients' mental health goals. The ideal candidate has a degree in Recreation & Leisure Studies, a Post Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation, and at least two years of related experience. Responsibilities include assessments, program implementation, and working with interdisciplinary teams. Flexible working hours are included, along with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years recent, related knowledge and experience.
• Demonstrated experience in applying prompt assessment.
• Experience working with individuals with Mental Health issues.
• Knowledge of psychotropic medications and symptom management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and group assessments.
• Set goals and implement intervention programs.
• Support clients' work towards mental health goals.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Critical thinking

Time management

Problem solving

Education

Degree in Recreation & Leisure Studies or related field

Post Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Internet/Intranet

Job description

OPSEU

Job Title: Recreation Therapist
Status: Regular Full Time
Department: Mental Health D/N Treatment
Program: Mental Health & Addictions
8 Hour Shifts, Days Schedule (Subject to Change)
Location: Lakeridge Health Oshawa
Wage Schedule: $36.970 - $43.140 per hour
OPSEU: 2500003318

This position is open to all qualified OPSEU staff throughout Lakeridge Health commencing 18 November 2025 and closing at 11:59 pm on 25 November 2025.

Position Description

The Recreation Therapist (RT) works collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team within the intensive day treatment program supporting clients' work towards their Mental Health goals. The RT is primarily responsible for assessment, intervention and evaluation related to clients' leisure needs, interests, abilities, community support and recovery. Using a client-centered approach, this position involves collaboration with the client, family, and the interdisciplinary team in the development of therapeutic recreation interventions, which maximize independent leisure functioning and enhance the well-being of the client. The major functions of the RT are directly related to the Therapeutic Recreation Standards of Practice.

Duties and Responsibilities

Using a collaborative approach and evidence based practice, the RT is responsible for individual and group assessment, goal-setting, and implementation of intervention programs to promote independent functioning within the physical, emotional, mental and social domains.

Qualifications

• Degree in Recreation & Leisure Studies or a related Bachelor level degree and Post Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation
• Member of Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO)
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support certification
• Minimum 2 years recent, related knowledge, skills and experience
• Demonstrated experience in applying prompt assessment
• Experience working with individuals with Mental Health issues
• Knowledge of psychotropic medications, symptom management and their impact in providing therapeutic recreation interventions
• Proven experience in crisis intervention
• Experience developing and leading workshops and groups
• Demonstrated computer proficiency in Word, Power Point, Internet/Intranet and various data bases relevant to therapeutic recreation
• Demonstrate skills associated with working independently in the community
• Demonstrated ability to assess, plan and implement a personalized approach to service delivery within the guidelines of the Therapeutic Recreation Service Model in accordance with TRO Standards of Practice
• Demonstrated knowledge of community resources and an ability to liaise with such services
• Highly developed in interpersonal and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member
• Excellent organizational, critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Demonstrated strong problem solving abilities, effective decision-making skills and ability to lead small and large client groups
• Effective time management and organizational skills and ability to be flexible & adaptable to change
• Valid driver's license and able to provide own transportation
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to Lakeridge Health's comprehensive safety programs and practices including staff safety, patient safety and environmental safety and participation in regular in-service education sessions
• Demonstrated commitment to our core values of Inclusion, Compassion, Innovation, Teamwork and Joy

Conditions of Employment

The terms and conditions of employment are in accordance with the Collective Agreement between the Hospital and OPSEU Local 348.

Successful External applicants must provide a satisfactory Criminal Investigation Reference for the vulnerable sector, dated within the past six (6) months.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the recruitment and assessment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.

Equal Opportunity Statement

At Lakeridge Health we value inclusion and diversity. We are committed to fostering a culture that is respectful, inclusive and accessible and to employing a workforce that is representative of the diverse community we provide services to. As an equal opportunity employer we welcome applications from all qualified applicants.

Lakeridge Health is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all team members and patients. New Lakeridge Health team members will be required to complete a Pre-employment Health Assessment as a condition of employment.