DIR Floortime Therapist (DFA)

Strides ABA; Paterson (NJ); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Professional growth

Flexible schedules

Near-home cases

Training & support

Job summary

WonDIRful Play in Paterson, NJ is seeking a part-time DIR Floortime Player to engage children through play-based interactions that foster emotional and developmental growth. The role offers mentorship from our clinical team and opportunities to grow professionally while supporting families in their child’s progress.

The position requires DIR Floortime training or willingness to obtain it, a high school diploma (bachelor’s preferred), good communication with families, and physical ability to

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; bachelor's degree preferred.
• DIR Floortime Basic Certification or willingness to undergo training.
• Experience with children, esp. with autism or developmental delays.
• Strong understanding of child development and the DIR Floortime model.
• Excellent communication with families and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Engage in play-based interactions to support emotional and developmental growth.
• Build strong connections with children and families during sessions.
• Help each child reach milestones through DIR Floortime approaches.
• Receive guidance and mentorship from the clinical team.

Skills

DIR Floortime

Child development

Family communication

Mobility assistance

Education

DIR Floortime Basic Certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Job Title: DIR Floortime Player (DFA)

Job Type: Part-time

Location: Paterson, NJ 07502

Schedule: Wednesday and Friday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM.

About Us

At WonDIRful Play, we provide meaningful, play-based therapeutic interventions to support the growth of children with Autism. We use the DIR Floortime approach, which is centered around the individual needs of each child. Our goal is to create enriching interactions and experiences that foster connection and developmental progress through.

We are looking for passionate and skilled DIR Floortime Players (DFA) who are willing to obtain the basic DIR training.

Position Overview

As a DIR Floortime Player (DFA), you'll make a meaningful difference in a child's life through engaging, play-based interactions that support emotional and developmental growth. As a DIR Floortime Player (DFA), you'll build strong connections with children and families while helping each child reach important milestones through the DIR Floortime approach. You'll receive ongoing guidance, mentorship, and support from our clinical team, ensuring every DIR Floortime Player (DFA) feels confident and successful in their role. At Strides, we are committed to helping our DIR Floortime Players feel valued, supported, and appreciated while making a lasting impact on the children and families they serve.

Benefits

• Competetive pay based on experience.
• Opportunities for professional growth.
• Morning, afternoon, and evening cases available.
• Cases close to home.
• Training and ongoing support provided by experienced DIR Floortime professionals.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.

• DIR Floortime Basic Certification: Applicants must possess a DIR Floortime Basic Certification or be willing to undergo the training as a condition of employment.
• Experience working with children, particularly those with developmental delays, autism, or sensory processing challenges.
• A strong understanding of child development and the DIR Floortime® model.

Excellent communication skills for working with families and collaborating with other team members.

• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds (due to the physical nature of the role and potential to assist clients with mobility).
• Ability to kneel, sit, stand, and move around frequently during sessions.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (for community and in‑home services).
• Clean background check required for working with children and families.

Legal Requirements

• Adherence to HIPPA guidelines for confidentiality and data protection.
• Compliance with all federal, state and local regulations regarding child welfare and mandatory reporting.
• Physical ability to assist with safety protocols including, lifting or moving clients when needed.
• If you meet the qualifications above and are passionate about helping children thrive, we'd love to hear from you.