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Recreational Therapist
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Scorecard
Based on Michigan data
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What they do
A Recreational Therapist directs and coordinates recreational activities for people with disabilities or illness to help them improve their emotional and physical well-being, improve motor skills and increase confidence. Leads activities involving movement, sports, games, and other activities for brain stimulation. Assists patients with disabilities to learn to use public resources such as parks and public transportation, and integrate in the community. Works with people of all ages, in schools, nursing homes, clinics and other healthcare facilities, or in parks and recreation departments.
$57,406 / year median in Michigan
+1% projected growth
Job Description
Recreational Therapist Schedule:
40 hours minimum per week | 8:00 am- 4:30 pm | Monday
Friday Department:
Participant Care |Ypsilanti, MI What You'll Do In This Role:
Bring purpose, connection, and joy to everyday life. As a Recreational Therapist, you'll deliver evidence-based therapeutic recreation services that support participants' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. As a key member of the interdisciplinary team, you'll assess individual needs, design personalized care plans, and lead meaningful interventions that inspire engagement, promote independence, and enhance quality of life for older adults living in the community. Department Participant Care Employment Type Full Time Location Ypsilanti, Mi Workplace type Onsite Reporting To Amanda Biniecki Key Responsibilities Assessment and Care Planning Conduct comprehensive therapeutic recreation assessments upon enrollment, semi and annually, and with significant changes in participant status. Identify strengths, limitations, leisure interests, cognitive and psychosocial needs. Develop individualized recreation therapy goals and interventions as part of the participant's care plan. Monitor outcomes and modify interventions based on participant response and IDT input. Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) Participation Actively participate in IDT meetings, care conferences, and care transitions. Collaborate with providers, nurses, social workers, rehabilitation staff, dietary, and home care teams. Provide recreation‑related clinical input for participant goals, risk mitigation, and quality‑of‑life planning. Therapeutic Interventions Plan, implement, and lead individual and group therapeutic recreation activities addressing: Cognitive stimulation and memory support Physical endurance, balance, and motor skills Emotional expression and coping skills Socialization and community integration Adapt activities to accommodate medical conditions, functional limitations, and sensory impairments. Provide interventions in the PACE center, community settings, or participant homes as indicated Participant Engagement & Quality of Life Promote participant choice, autonomy, and culturally responsive programming Encourage meaningful leisure participation that aligns with participant values and life history Support participants experiencing social isolation, depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline Documentation and Compliance Maintain timely, accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR). Ensure compliance withCMS PACE
regulations, state and federal requirements, and organizational policies. Participate in quality improvement initiatives and program evaluations. Program Development & Support Assist with planning special events, community outings, and wellness programs. Support volunteers or activity aides as applicable. Educate staff and caregivers on the therapeutic value of recreation and engagement The above is a summary of the position, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties this position will be required to perform. If selected for the position you will receive a full job description. Skills, Knowledge & Expertise Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, or related field Current certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) through NCTRC. Minimum of one (1) year working with the frail and elderly. Knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles and documentation standards. Experience in PACE, geriatrics, rehabilitation, long‑term care, or community‑based programs desired. Job Benefits Career Growth & Development- Advance your career with tuition assistance and school scholarships up to $3,000 per semester. Wellness Program & Reimbursemen t
- Prioritize your health and well-being, reimbursed 120 a year! Competitive Benefits for Full-Time Team Members
- Enjoy Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance starting on the 1st of the month after 30 days of hire. Retirement Savings Plan
- Secure your future with employer contributions. Generous 6 weeks of Flexible time off per year —plus paid holidays on top of that. Team Member Referral Bonus Program
- Earn $500 when you bring great people to our team! Mileage Reimbursement
- Offered for work-related travel.