Recreational Therapist - Behavioral Services Unit

Department: Behavioral Services Unit

Position Reports To: BSU, Unit Manager

Education: BS/BA degree in Therapeutic Recreation from an accredited college or university. CTRS certification preferred Successful completion of TCI Training or equivalent within three months of hire.

Mental Requirements: Emotional stability and organizational skills necessary to meet the demands of a stressful environment and emergency situations. Good interpersonal skills to interact in appropriate manner with various personalities, relating to patients, peers, supervisors, physicians, other hospital staff and outside agencies. Knowledge of regulatory requirements regarding risks involved in exposure to blood-borne and hazardous toxic substances. Self-motivation to effectively manage therapeutic recreation for often time's heavy caseload. Confidence and flexibility to function as a team player. Willingness to provide patient care for all patients within the Behavioral Health Department.

Physical Requirements: Audio/visual acuity and physical dexterity to interact appropriately with patients, peers, visitors, staff, and outside customers/agencies. Ability to do long periods of standing, walking, bending and stretching, and ability to change position and body motion quickly. Ability to lift and assist in lifting, utilizing appropriate body mechanics, without weight restriction. Ability to participate as a member of the team trained to physically subdue and restrain individuals in behavioral dyscontrol, of all sizes and strengths. This activity includes, but is not limited to, lifting, holding, straining and running.

Work Experience: 2 years of experience in Recreation Therapy in an acute MH environment required

Job Specific Duties: Observe, analyze, and record patients' participation, reactions, and progress during treatment sessions, modifying treatment programs as needed. Participate in the development of treatment plans to meet needs of patient, based on needs assessment, patient interests and objectives of therapy. Encourage clients with special needs and circumstances to acquire new skills and get involved in health-promoting leisure activities, such as sports, games, arts and crafts, and gardening. Counsel and encourage patients to develop leisure activities. Collaborate with members of treatment team to plan and evaluate therapy programs. Conduct therapy sessions to improve patients' mental and physical well-being. Provide individualized treatment activities and programs as needed. Determine need for and present behavior modification plans for review and approval. Instruct patient in activities and techniques, such as sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques, designed to meet their specific physical or psychological needs. Obtain information from medical records, medical staff, family members and the patients themselves to assess patients' capabilities, needs and interests. Design, plan, organize, direct and participate in treatment programs and activities to facilitate patients' rehabilitation, help them integrate into the community and prevent further psychosocial problems. Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and deliver quality services. Collaborate with supervisors and co-workers by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person to improve patient care. Perform and document progress notes, assessments and other clinical documentation in a complete, timely and appropriate manner. Ensure availability of activity supplies and equipment. Provide input and direction to unit programming through unit council or program meeting, regularly evaluating and updating the program to best represent patient needs.