Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Overview

Diversified Treatment Alternative Centers (DTAC) is seeking a dedicated and clinically driven Therapeutic Recreation Specialist to support our residential treatment program for male adolescents ages 8-18. This role offers the opportunity to use recreation as a therapeutic intervention, helping youth build healthy coping skills, improve social functioning, and achieve long-term success in a structured, trauma-informed environment.

Why Join DTAC

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of adolescent males
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary treatment environment
• Use recreation as a clinical tool to support healing and growth
• Join a well-established organization committed to quality care and outcomes

Position Summary

The Therapeutic Recreation Specialist works as part of the interdisciplinary treatment team to develop and implement structured, trauma-informed recreational programming. This role is essential in promoting emotional regulation, social skills development, and positive behavioral change.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all clients
• Conduct functional baseline assessments to identify client strengths and needs
• Develop and implement individualized and group recreation treatment plans
• Plan and facilitate on-site and off-site recreational activities
• Co-facilitate psychoeducational and skills-based groups
• Support adherence to clinical models, including DBT-A
• Model appropriate coping skills, communication, and emotional regulation
• Maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes and incident reports
• Collaborate with therapists, leadership, and treatment team members
• Transport clients to appointments when required
• Maintain professional boundaries and ensure HIPAA compliance
• Participate in scheduled shift coverage, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, or a related Human Services field
• Active CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist) credential
• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in therapeutic recreation, behavioral health, residential treatment, or a related setting
• Strong documentation, organization, and communication skills
• Ability to pass required background clearances

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working in residential treatment settings
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles
• Familiarity with clinical models such as DBT-A
• Experience facilitating therapeutic and psychoeducational groups

Requirements

• Commitment to maintaining sight-line supervision standards
• Completion of required documentation with high accuracy
• Compliance with all training and regulatory requirements
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Pay

$21.00 – $25.00 per hour

Schedule

Shift: Tuesday and Saturday at Danville Residential; Wednesday and Friday at Lewisburg Residential; Thursday assigned to either location based on program needs. Hours: 11am - 7pm. Full-Time.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Flexible Spending Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral Program

Work Location

This is an in-person position supporting two residential treatment facilities located in Danville, PA and Lewisburg, PA. Candidates must be able to reliably travel between both locations according to the assigned schedule.