What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation Specialist-Director of Activities position at MSH?
Out client who is the largest nonprofit organization in the Greater Los Angeles area is seeking a Director of Activities to join their team on a full-time permanent basis. Candidate must have their CTRS certification. This position is fully onsite 5 days a week and no weekend!
Overview:
The Director of Activities is responsible for overseeing and coordinating recreation therapy services, ensuring the development, implementation, and monitoring of individualized therapeutic plans to enhance patients' functional and social abilities.
Major Responsibilities:
- Conduct initial assessments and quarterly reassessments of assigned patients to evaluate functional and social abilities, set realistic recreation therapy goals, and identify major interests.
- Develop and implement individualized therapeutic Plans of Care, updating goals as needed and presenting them to the Interdisciplinary Team.
- Supervise recreation therapy activities delivered by Certified Nursing Assistants in the AGPU, ensuring treatment progress is monitored.
- Demonstrate proficiency in setting up and applying all recreation therapy modalities, including exercise.
- Plan, develop, and schedule therapeutic programs and recreational activities for patients, including those with dementia or sensory deficits.
- Plan and provide group and individual activities, greeting patients upon arrival and setting a positive tone for each day.
- Incorporate volunteers, intergenerational activities, and contracted services for entertainment, art, movement, and music therapy.
- Access community resources for outings and monitor patient safety during activities, preparing for emergencies and promoting good body mechanics.
- Provide recreational education to patients and families, and share information on patient interests with the Interdisciplinary Team.
- Participate in Interdisciplinary Team meetings, keeping the team informed of any changes in patients' conditions.
- Complete documentation in the medical record accurately and on time.
- Maintain competency in line with departmental, organizational, and professional standards.
- Understand and contribute to meeting budget targets while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
- Comply with safety policies and procedures, reporting any unsafe conditions to the Center Manager and ensuring a safe environment for all.
- Continuously seek improvements in service delivery and communication with patients.
- Demonstrate respect for patient rights, including dignity, self-determination, access to care, confidentiality, and independence.
- Adhere to all AGPU policies and procedures and deliver age-specific care as required.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Therapy or a related field, such as Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, or Music Therapy.
Certificates and Licenses:
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification is required.
- Verification of current CPR (BLS) training.
- Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Completion of TB screening and health examination by a hospital-designated nurse practitioner or physician is required for employment.
- MAB (Management of Assaultive Behavior) De-escalation Training and Certification must be obtained within 3 months of hire.
Experience: At least two years of experience providing and coordinating services in social or recreational programs for individuals with mental health conditions within the past five years. Preferred: Full-time experience in a patient activities program within an acute psychiatric setting, particularly serving a geriatric population, within the last three years.
