Activity Therapist

Harboroaks; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Activity Therapist to lead and implement therapeutic recreation programs. In this role, you will assess patient needs and develop tailored activity plans that promote mental and physical well-being. You will engage patients in various activities, from sports to arts, fostering independence and social skills. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives while working in a supportive healthcare environment. If you're dedicated to enhancing patient care through recreation, we invite you to apply.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field required.
• 3+ years experience in recreation in a healthcare setting.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement therapeutic activity programs for patients.
• Facilitate activity sessions to improve mental and physical well-being.

Skills

Therapeutic Recreation

Patient Assessment

Activity Planning

Social Skills Development

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation

Master's Degree

Tools

CPR Certification

De-escalation Techniques

Job description

Overview

PURPOSE STATEMENT:

Plan, direct, and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the patient’s treatment plan.

Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Complete activity assessment through patient observation and patient/family interview, obtaining information on the patient’s needs, skills, interests, and limitations for the development and implementation of the treatment plan.
• Plan, organize, direct, and implement activities within the treatment program to facilitate patient progress toward treatment goals.
• Plan and implement an activities program, including therapeutic leisure skills and activities, leisure education, and leisure awareness.
• Facilitate and lead activity sessions to improve patient mental and physical well-being.
• Instruct patients in activities and techniques such as sports, dance, music, art, or relaxation techniques designed to meet their specific needs.
• Develop treatment plans and implement activity interventions that meet patient needs and interests and help the patient achieve their treatment goals.
• Engage patients in therapeutic activities, such as exercise, games, and community outings.
• Help patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent.
• Modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude towards patients at all times. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

OTHER FUNCTIONS:

• Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred.

• Three or more years’ experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of the patient population served by the facility required.
• Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting is preferred.

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or currently in the process of obtaining national certification; OR certified in the area of specialty (Art, Dance, Music, etc.) OR clinical professional licensure (LCPC, LPC, etc.) with certification in expressive therapy area required.
• CPR and de-escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by the facility).
• First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.

While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the requirements of the job, management reserves the right to add or remove duties from particular jobs when circumstances (e.g., emergencies, changes in workload, rush jobs, or technological developments) dictate.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual’s characteristics protected by applicable state, federal, and local laws.