Recreational Therapist / CTRS

Position Overview

This non-exempt position reports to the Director of Clinical Social Services and is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing medically approved therapeutic activities for patients within the facility. The Recreational Therapist plays an integral role in supporting patients' psychosocial, emotional, and functional well-being through structured therapeutic programming. Activities may include leisure skill development, socialization, physical/exercise activities, cognitive stimulation, and creative expression (arts and crafts, music, etc.). This role collaborates closely with the interdisciplinary treatment team and contributes directly to individualized patient care planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a full range of recreational therapy services, including assessments, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions
• Deliver therapy services both independently and as part of the interdisciplinary treatment team
• Plan, coordinate, and assist with scheduling therapeutic activities
• Lead and actively participate in group and individual activities
• Observe patient participation and engagement during sessions
• Track patient progress and document treatment goals and outcomes
• Maintain accurate, timely, and detailed documentation for all individual and group therapy sessions
• Document group participation in accordance with facility and regulatory requirements
• Consult with patients to support therapeutic goals
• Conduct individual and family sessions at least twice monthly
• Meet with patients and psychiatrists monthly for medication management support, as needed
• Provide clinical input to support patients' overall psychosocial treatment plans

Education & Certification Requirements

One of the following is required:

• Bachelor's degree (4-year) with a focus in Recreational Therapy
• Bachelor's degree with CTRS certification
• Bachelor's degree in Arts or Music (with applicable therapeutic experience)

License/Certification: CTRS certification through an approved certification program, as required by state regulations for Activity Therapy

Preferred Knowledge & Skills

• Basic understanding of DSM-V diagnostic criteria
• Basic knowledge of medical and psychiatric diagnoses and conditions
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to engage patients in therapeutic activities
• Excellent documentation and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented clinical environment

Why Join Freedom Behavioral Hospital

• Be part of a patient-centered, compassionate care team
• Make a meaningful impact in behavioral health treatment
• Supportive leadership and collaborative clinical environment
• Opportunity to apply creativity and clinical skills every day
• Stable healthcare setting with professional growth opportunities