Certified Recreational Therapist

Certified Recreational Therapist Collier Youth Services - 4.4 Wickatunk, NJ Job Details Full-time From $55,000 a year 8 days ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Flexible spending account Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance Employee discount Professional development assistance Life insurance Qualifications Therapeutic Recreation Master's degree Driver's License Working with children Bachelor's degree Recreational therapy Full Job Description Are you searching for a sense of purpose and a career that is rewarding in itself? Let Collier Youth Services be the intersection of meaning and fulfillment in your career. Join our community and transform the lives of at-risk children! Since 1927, Collier Youth Services has been devoted to the mission of serving at-risk and

PROMISING

children, youth, and families. Our programs have developed over the years in response to the changing needs of the young people and families we serve. Today, Collier Youth Services is a non-profit that addresses the therapeutic and social issues of our youngsters through educational, residential, and recreational programs of the highest quality. Using a holistic approach, Collier provides at-risk youth support and care. While our services continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: our commitment to nurturing the potential of each person and honoring their individual worth. ~~~ The Recreational Therapist (RT) supports elementary and middle school-age students by using play, arts, sports, and community-based activities to enhance their physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development. Working within the educational setting, including alignment with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the RT helps students build independence, improve motor skills, increase social engagement, and strengthen self-esteem.

Responsibilities:

Conduct assessments to evaluate students' individual needs and abilities. Develop and implement personalized therapeutic recreation plans aligned with educational and IEP goals and to address behaviors that hinder academic success through tailored interventions. Participate in committees/activities relating to advocacy for children and families affected by mental health issues, as requested Design and lead activities that promote fine and gross motor skills, social interaction, communication, and emotional regulation Develop goal-oriented therapeutic recreation plans aimed at the behavioral and emotional growth of our students Review the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and comply with rules and regulations Create a supportive and engaging environment that encourages positive peer interactions and supports students' mental health and emotional well-being. May include mediation between students. Plan and facilitate inclusive and adaptive sports, games, and recreational activities to ensure students of all abilities can participate meaningfully in school programs. Plan and facilitate individual and group activities designed to improve self-regulation, communication, and socialization skills Teach students how to access and use community resources, fostering independence and life skills beyond the school setting. This includes school trips into the community to help foster community-integrated skills Work closely with teachers and staff regarding student needs, behavioral modifications, and interventions Develop both individual and group sessions. This includes pushing into classrooms as well as interventions outside of the classrooms. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees, consultants, interns, volunteers, and districts, and any other agency/organization. Maintaining appropriate documentation required. Documentation should track progress towards behavioral, emotional, social, and educational goals. Interventions should be aimed at helping students build coping skills, help them reduce anxiety, and improve their social skills for community participation. Must be able to engage with students who may have a history of trauma, who may exhibit emotional, social and behavioral distress Attend agency, community, county, and state meetings and trainings as required and requested.

Qualifications:

Must have a Recreational Therapist credential through the state of NJ Bachelor's or Master's degree in Recreational Therapy or related field 1-2 years of experience working in alternative educational settings Knowledge of Social Emotional Learning Practices is a plus Satisfactorily pass Criminal History, Fingerprints, TB Screening, physical, and Sexual Misconduct and Child Abuse Disclosure Valid driver's license

Hours:

8:30-4:00 - Monday-Friday, Follows the school calendar: Work September-June and 30 days over the summer

EOE Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance

License/Certification:

School Social Worker Certification (Preferred) NJ LCSW, LSW, LPC, or LAC license (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person