Recreation Therapy Assistant

Recreation Therapy Assistant

Serve as the recreation therapy assistant for the assigned patient care area/program(s). Responsible for carrying out a full range of Therapeutic Recreation programs and interventions inclusive of recreation treatment modalities and general recreation (diversional) activities, as defined and assessed or assigned by the Recreation Therapist and/or Supervisory Recreation Therapy Program Manager. Independently develop and implement diversional programs. These interventions address assessed patient needs, utilizing appropriate motivational and leadership approaches, and are implemented in both clinical and community settings.

Work with patients who have a variety of illnesses, diseases, and/or disabling conditions with varying degrees of impairment. At times work independently with patients and be responsible for minimizing all potential risks and following safety policies and procedures. Assure patients are appropriately dressed for prescribed outdoor activities; observe safety precautions in the use of tools and equipment; record attendance and participation in projects or activities;

and report patient reactions and responses.

Patient care areas may include Sub-acute & Acute Rehabilitation, Medicine, Psychiatric, Community Living Center, Dementia Special Care Unit, Hospice Unit, Day Treatment Program, Domiciliary, Substance Abuse Treatment, PTSD Treatment, Blind Rehabilitation, clinics, and inpatient units. Work with patients individually, in small groups, or in large groups depending on physical and mental status and treatment needs. Perform other duties as assigned.

Drive and/or escort patients to community activities; provide instructions on expectations and observe patients for unpredictable behavior. Physically assist individuals with physical disabilities (ambulatory or non-ambulatory) when getting into and out of vehicles and navigating community environments.

Assist in maintaining Recreation Therapy Department activity areas, offices, fishing areas, and outdoor activity areas by performing periodic on-site inspections and reporting issues. Manage all supplies and equipment used in assigned area(s)/program(s), including inventory, storage, issuing, servicing, and repair.

Solicit support and involvement of volunteers in specialized programs. Follow up on activities involving these individuals or groups to confirm participation, determine supply needs, and address other activity-related details. Directly supervise volunteers, Veteran work-study students, and Incentive Therapy patients who support program activities.

40 hours a week, Five 8 hour shifts, days off are determined by the needs of the service. Schedule to be discussed during interview.

Sunday
- Thursday

Tuesday
- Saturday

This is not a virtual position.

Position Description/PD#:
Recreation Therapy Assistant/ PD144760

Relocation/Recruitment

Incentives:

Not Authorized

Critical Skills Incentive (CSI):
Not Approved

Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Authorized