Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

$41,600 - $47,840/Yr

Ryan Sitrin - New Hartford, NY

Full-time

New Hartford, NY

About the position

The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist at Sitrin Health Care Center is responsible for developing and implementing therapeutic recreation programs that enhance the physical, social, spiritual, and mental well-being of residents, particularly those with neurological impairments. This role involves assessing residents' needs, creating individualized care plans, and facilitating recreational activities that promote engagement and self-esteem. The specialist will work closely with residents, families, and the therapeutic recreation team to ensure a supportive and enriching environment.

Responsibilities

• Observe resident attendance, mood, behavior, and degree of involvement to evaluate facility programs and resident progress.
• Assist in community planning related to the interests of the facility and the needs of residents and families.
• Develop and implement therapeutic recreational care plans and resident assessments.
• Interview residents or family members to obtain recreational information/history and involve them in planning therapeutic recreation programs.
• Assist in developing a written plan of care for each resident's activity programs that identifies problems/needs and goals.
• Encourage resident/family participation in the development and review of their plan of care.
• Assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining a quality assurance program for the Therapeutic Recreation Department.
• Attend facility in-service programs, staff meetings, and care plan meetings as scheduled.
• Participate in facility surveys made by authorized government agencies as necessary.
• Assist in arranging transportation for outings when necessary.
• Perform administrative requirements, such as completing necessary forms and reports.
• Create and maintain a warm and positive atmosphere throughout the unit.
• Assist in developing volunteer recreation assignments.
• Participate in orientation and in-service training programs related to Therapeutic Recreation.
• Prepare and clean up recreation rooms and areas before and after programs and functions.
• Assist in moving/arranging equipment/supplies for scheduled functions.
• Befriend residents to encourage self-esteem by visiting and conversing regularly.
• Oversee residents engaging in scheduled therapeutic recreation programs.
• Plan TR calendar events and develop a monthly/weekly schedule based on residents' needs and interests.
• Coordinate and implement monthly special events.
• Make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Relate to and work with a variety of disabilities, including neurologically impaired and behaviorally challenged individuals.
• Be flexible and willing to work a varied schedule, including holidays, evenings, and weekends.
• Possess leadership ability to seek out and incorporate new methods into existing Therapeutic Recreation Services.
• Perform duties according to the highest ethical and moral standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Recreation/Leisure Studies with a concentration in Therapeutic Recreation.
• National certification from NCTRC desirable.
• Valid New York State driver's license.
• Preferred neurological/rehabilitation experience in a long-term care setting.