Recreation Therapist – EDRP Eligible; Clinical Care

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) – a student loan payment reimbursement program. Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit the EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program approval—award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years)—is determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the application.

Former EDRP participants are ineligible to apply.

• United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
• Education: The following education requirements apply to the recreation therapist.
  • A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with a major in therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure—with an option and/or emphasis in therapeutic recreation.
  • The degree must be approved by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).
  • OR – A bachelor's degree or higher in any field from an accredited college or university and must be a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS).
  • The degree must be approved by the NCTRC.
  • If hired under this education, the certification cannot be waived.
• Certification: Required – Recreation Therapist. Applicants must be certified in recreation therapy as a CTRS by the NCTRC.
• Loss of Credential: A recreation or creative arts therapist who fails to maintain the required registration and/or certification must be removed from the occupation—which may also result in termination of employment.
• Grandfathering Provision: May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
• Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
• English Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English – as required by 38 U.S.C. 7403(f).
• Grade Determinations: Recreation Therapist – GS-11 Experience.
• Experience: At least one year of creditable experience at the next lower grade level.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to adapt assessment tools and treatment interventions to address the complexity of the diagnosis or disabilities and demonstrate the clinical reasoning needed to identify the need for further in‑depth specific assessment of function and utilization of unconventional methods and techniques.
  • Knowledge to independently interpret provider referrals and consults and apply all health and safety regulations to minimize and mitigate risks in patient care and the environment of care.
  • Skill in effectively communicating and educating—in a clear and concise manner—with patients, families, caregivers, and other health care professionals to facilitate the interdisciplinary treatment process.
  • Skill in independently utilizing appropriate screening and evaluation techniques required to appropriately provide direct patient care in areas such as – but not limited to – recommendations for recreation therapy assistive devices, including fit and function.
  • Skill in independently applying evidence‑based and best practice therapeutic techniques and interventions.
  • Knowledge of the principles and techniques in recreation therapy assessment and the treatment of recreation, leisure, and biopsychosocial functional deficits.
• Preferred Experience:
  • Experience working with adult population.
  • Experience working with mental health population.
  • Experience working in a residential rehabilitation setting.
• Performance Level: The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑11.
• Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required are typical for the occupation and would generally not require a pre‑placement examination.

• This vacancy will remain open until filled.
• The first cut‑off date is Friday – May 29 2026.
• Additional applications will be referred as needed.
• Applications expire after 90 days. Please update your application through USAJobs if you wish to be reconsidered.
• The incumbent is responsible…