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Impeccable recreation & wellness

Recreation Therapist

Career Insights for Recreational Therapist

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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.

$50,985 / year median in Texas

+5% projected growth

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Job Description

Overview Join our dynamic team as a Recreation Therapist and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals across diverse care settings. In this role, you will design, implement, and evaluate therapeutic recreation programs that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being. Your expertise will help enhance quality of life for clients with various health conditions, including mental health challenges, developmental disabilities, dementia, and aging-related needs. We are seeking energetic professionals passionate about fostering recovery, independence, and joy through innovative recreational activities. Duties Develop and customize therapeutic recreation programs tailored to individual client needs, including art therapy, music therapy, dance therapy, yoga, swimming, equine-assisted activities, and more. Conduct comprehensive patient assessments to determine appropriate recreational interventions and track progress over time. Facilitate both individual and group therapy sessions focused on behavioral health, mental health counseling, crisis management, de-escalation techniques, and social skills development. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including nurses, social workers, psychologists, and case managers—to coordinate care plans for clients with psychiatric conditions, autism spectrum disorder, PTSD, Alzheimer's disease, hospice needs, or other disabilities. Maintain accurate medical documentation and records in compliance with HIPAA regulations; ensure data collection for program evaluation and quality improvement initiatives. Manage intake procedures for new clients; perform diagnostic evaluations; assist with program development to meet evolving community care standards. Engage clients in recreational activities such as dancing, swimming, art projects, equine experiences, or yoga to promote physical activity and emotional expression. Provide education to families and caregivers on therapeutic recreation strategies that support ongoing client well-being at home or in assisted living environments. Skills Proven experience working with individuals with disabilities across settings such as nursing homes, hospitals (behavioral health or psychiatric units), assisted living facilities, or community programs. Strong background in medical terminology, medical documentation practices including HIPAA compliance, and patient assessment techniques. Expertise in therapeutic recreation modalities including music therapy, dance therapy (including dancing), art therapy, yoga, equine-assisted activities (equine experience), and specialized dementia or Alzheimer's care. Familiarity with behavioral management strategies and crisis de-escalation techniques to ensure client safety during challenging situations. Ability to develop engaging therapeutic programs that incorporate group therapy principles while addressing individual goals. Excellent communication skills for effective client interaction and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. Knowledge of mental health conditions such as PTSD and addiction counseling; experience working with geriatric patients or children with developmental disabilities is highly desirable. Experience working in hospice care or palliative settings is a plus; familiarity with special education or autism spectrum disorder interventions is beneficial. Join us to empower clients through creative recreation that fosters healing and happiness! We are committed to supporting your professional growth while providing a rewarding environment where your skills can truly shine.
Pay:
$30.00 - $50.00 per hour
Benefits:
Flexible schedule
Work Location:
In person