Direct Care & Activities Specialist

Acadia Healthcare; Clarksdale (MS); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Acadia Healthcare is seeking a dedicated individual to provide one‑on‑one or group instruction and daily assistance to patients. Duties include supporting program activities, vehicle checks when driving, data collection, client assessments, meal preparation, and collaborative adjustments to training plans.

The role emphasizes maintaining a clean, safe therapeutic environment, monitoring behaviors, promoting independence, and addressing patient needs with empathy and professionalism.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must have a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Provide assistance with program activities.
• Complete routine daily check of van (including tires, gas gauge, etc.) and report deficiencies to supervisor if driving is required.
• Accurately monitor and maintain data collection sheets and submit to supervisor in a timely manner.
• Assist with assessment of clients' strengths and needs as necessary.
• Assist with preparation of clients' meals and provide client training as needed.
• Communicate with supervisor related needs to revise, delete, or add training objectives as deemed necessary.
• Physically assist in maintaining facility in a neat and orderly manner.
• Monitor and document individual behaviors using specific and descriptive terms accurately (i.e., behavior changes, accidents, seizures, etc.).
• Encourage individuals to be independent and attend and participate in assigned activities.
• Provide realistic, positive assurance to individuals regarding benefits of treatment and participation.
• Assist in physical maintenance of a therapeutic environment by promoting an environment that encourages individuals to learn new skills and make choices through activity involvement, hands‑on instruction/guidance, etc.
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Must be at least 21 years of age

Job description

Acadia Healthcare is seeking a dedicated individual to provide one‑on‑one or group instruction and daily assistance to patients. Duties include supporting program activities, vehicle checks when driving, data collection, client assessments, meal preparation, and collaborative adjustments to training plans.

The role emphasizes maintaining a clean, safe therapeutic environment, monitoring behaviors, promoting independence, and addressing patient needs with empathy and professionalism.