Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

Universal Health Services; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation & Generous PT

Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision & Rx

401(K) with company match

Tuition Reimbursement & Student loan

Employee Assistance Program

Life Insurance & Disability

FSA/HSA & Wellness Programs

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health, part of Universal Health Services, seeks a Certified Recreational Therapist to plan and lead therapeutic recreation activities for children and teens within a residential/partial hospital setting. The role emphasizes safety, group facilitation, and alignment with treatment goals under supervision.

The candidate will assess functional abilities, manage time effectively, and maintain professional boundaries while supporting therapeutic progress.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited school in Therapeutic Recreation, Art Therapy, Music Therapy and current certification or registration within the respective field.
• Experience working with children and adolescents within a residential and/or psychiatric environment.
• Prior residential treatment or psychiatric experience preferred.
• Supervision Exercised: Directors/supervisors provide guidance; may require physical exertion in activities.
• Must be able to operate 15 passenger vans and hold a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Plan goal oriented therapeutic recreation activities to include community engagement, therapeutic groups, and the ability to associate group sessions to current treatment goals
• Provide a lead role with hands‑on facilitation for groups and documentation
• Assess motor skills, cognition, and social functioning of patients and communicate findings to therapeutic treatment
• Prioritize and demonstrate effective time management, problem-solving abilities, social skills, including role modeling and respect for staff and children
• Demonstrate communication skills for limit‑setting and boundaries for patients and staff
• Practice therapeutic/professional boundaries; willingness to seek/accept supervision when needed

Education

Undergraduate degree in Therapeutic Recreation

Job description

Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health, part of Universal Health Services, seeks a Certified Recreational Therapist to plan and lead therapeutic recreation activities for children and teens within a residential/partial hospital setting. The role emphasizes safety, group facilitation, and alignment with treatment goals under supervision.

The candidate will assess functional abilities, manage time effectively, and maintain professional boundaries while supporting therapeutic progress.