Activities Coordinator/Recreation Therapist

Description

Job Summary:

RiverValley Behavioral Health Children's Hospital is seeking a dedicated Activities Coordinator/Recreation Therapist to develop and implement structured therapeutic recreational programs for children and adolescents receiving behavioral health treatment. This role is essential in enhancing patients' emotional, cognitive, physical, and social well-being through engaging and evidence-based recreational activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Development & Implementation

  • Design, organize, and lead structured recreational therapy programs tailored to the needs of children and adolescents with behavioral health challenges.
  • Utilize evidence-based interventions to support treatment goals, improve coping skills, and encourage social interaction.
  • Ensure activities align with individualized treatment plans and collaborate with clinical teams to assess patient progress.

• Patient Engagement & Support

  • Facilitate therapeutic group and individual activities, such as art therapy, music therapy, movement-based therapy, games, and outdoor activities.
  • Modify activities as needed to accommodate varying abilities and ensure inclusion for all patients.
  • Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment that fosters positive peer interactions.

• Collaboration & Documentation

  • Work closely with the interdisciplinary treatment team, including therapists, nurses, and psychiatrists, to integrate recreational therapy into the overall treatment plan.
  • Document patient participation, progress, and behavioral observations in electronic health records (EHR).
  • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and staff regarding therapeutic activities and their benefits.

• Safety & Compliance

  • Maintain safety standards in all recreational areas and ensure adherence to hospital policies and procedures.
  • Monitor and address any behavioral concerns that arise during activities.
  • Ensure compliance with accreditation and regulatory standards related to recreational therapy.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field required.
  • Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) preferred.
  • Previous experience in a behavioral health setting working with children and adolescents is highly desirable.

• Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles and techniques.
  • Ability to plan and facilitate age-appropriate, engaging activities that support emotional and psychological well-being.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with patients and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Physical & Work Requirements:

  • Ability to participate in physical activities, including movement-based therapy and outdoor recreation.
  • Work is primarily conducted in an inpatient hospital setting, requiring frequent interaction with patients in various therapeutic environments.

Why Join RiverValley Behavioral Health Children's Hospital?

• Be part of a mission-driven organization committed to providing high-quality behavioral health care for children and adolescents.
• Work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment where your expertise in recreational therapy makes a direct impact on patient outcomes.
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Salary : $22 - $24