Trauma-Informed Recreation Therapist: Healing Through Play

Child & Family Services; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 51,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO & Holidays

Life Insurance

Medical insurance options

Dental insurance options

Vision insurance options

Wellness Program

Job summary

Child and Family Services in Buffalo, NY seeks a Recreation Therapist to deliver structured, trauma-informed recreational interventions within a residential treatment setting for children who have faced trauma. The role focuses on emotional regulation, social skills, and growth through play.

You will design safe, healing activities, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and help families access community connections to support ongoing recovery and development.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or NYSED-approved program.
• Certification/registration as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist may apply.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead trauma-informed recreational and therapeutic activities that support emotional regulation, skill-building, and joy.
• Build environments where children feel safe, seen, and valued.
• Assess each child's social and interpersonal skills and emotional strengths.
• Develop personalized recreation-based treatment goals that foster communication, problem-solving, healthy relationships.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure each child's needs are met holistically.
• Participate in treatment team meetings and service planning.
• Help families access community activities that support connection beyond residential care.
• Plan and facilitate engaging activities like art, movement, outdoor play, games.
• Partner with community providers to bring in diverse experiences.
• Apply Trauma-Informed Care and De-escalation strategies in daily interactions.

Skills

Trauma-informed approach

Communication skills

Teamwork

Creativity & adaptability

Independent & collaborative

Education

Master's degree in Therapeutic Recreation

Certified/Registered Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Job description

Child and Family Services in Buffalo, NY seeks a Recreation Therapist to deliver structured, trauma-informed recreational interventions within a residential treatment setting for children who have faced trauma. The role focuses on emotional regulation, social skills, and growth through play.

You will design safe, healing activities, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and help families access community connections to support ongoing recovery and development.