What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Recreational Therapy position at Trillium Behavioral Health?

Job Description

The Director of Recreational Therapy is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing therapeutic recreation programs that support the emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being of patients in an inpatient behavioral health setting. As both a department manager and a practicing therapist, this role provides direct patient care while leading a team of recreational therapists and activity staff. The director ensures all therapeutic activities align with patient treatment plans, enhance recovery, and comply with regulatory standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Clinical & Therapeutic Program Development

Develop and implement structured recreational therapy programs that support patient treatment goals, including activities such as art therapy, music therapy, movement therapy, mindfulness exercises, and social skill-building activities.
Conduct individual and group recreational therapy sessions, integrating evidence-based techniques to improve patient mental health and overall well-being.
Collaborate with psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, and other clinicians to align therapy programs with individualized treatment plans.
Monitor and assess patient progress, adjusting interventions as needed to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Team Leadership

Supervise and manage recreational therapy staff, including hiring, training, and evaluating performance.

Develop department policies, procedures, and schedules to ensure effective program delivery.

Ensure compliance with Joint Commission (TJC), CMS, and state mental health regulations regarding therapeutic programming.

Prepare reports for hospital leadership, quality improvement committees, and accreditation bodies.

Patient Engagement & Safety

Implement therapeutic recreation activities that promote engagement while ensuring safety in an inpatient setting.

Identify and address patient behavioral risks during recreational activities.

QUALIFICATIONS :

Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Psychology, or a related field. Master’s preferred.

Minimum 4 years of experience in recreational therapy, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role in a behavioral health setting.

Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS); additional certification in specialized therapy modalities (such as music therapy, art therapy or adventure therapy) preferred.

Ability to engage diverse patient populations with creative, adaptable therapeutic activities.

Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary treatment team.

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