RECREATIONAL THERAPIST I

DEFINITION

This is entry-level professional recreational therapy work involving the assessment, instruction, evaluation, and supervision of clients in recreational activities as part of a therapeutic/rehabilitative program.

This description may not include all of the duties, knowledge, skills, or abilities associated with this classification.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Plans and administers therapeutic recreational activities in individual or group settings adapted to meet client needs and abilities as part of a treatment/rehabilitation program for a unit or treatment/rehabilitation area.

Evaluates clients' functioning level reflecting physical, social, mental, and emotional needs, abilities, and interest for placement in a recreational treatment program.

Confers with medical and interdisciplinary treatment staff regarding implementing clients' recreational programs based on needs, abilities, and interests.

Instructs and supervises clients in a wide variety of leisure activities such as active sports, group games, dramatics, arts and crafts projects, dancing, and other related activities; observes and reports on progress.

Organizes, stimulates, and encourages participation in planned individual and group activities; conducts special seasonal events and programs.

Supervises and/or trains Activity Aides, volunteers, students, and direct care staff in recreational activities.

Promotes cooperative assistance in meeting social and physical needs of clients through frequent interaction with other health, social service, and community groups.

Maintains an inventory of equipment and supplies used in recreation activities; requisitions necessary materials.

Exercises independence and discretion in carrying out assignments in conformance with program objectives and professional standards; supervision is received from a higher-level therapist who reviews work through progress reports, client record reviews, and/or direct observation.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

Introductory knowledge of the principles and practices of recreational therapy and the ability to apply them.

Introductory knowledge of the techniques, methods, and goals of individual and group recreational activities.

Introductory knowledge of the problems and behaviors of persons with mental illness, mental retardation/developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities.

Ability to plan, conduct, and participate in therapeutic recreational activities.

Ability to observe clients' progress and prepare clear and concise reports.

Ability to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic techniques and practices used in the rehabilitation/treatment of clients.

Ability to teach the principles, practices, and techniques of recreational therapy to staff, volunteers, and students.

Ability to operate and make minor adjustments and repairs to standard recreational therapy equipment.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and clients.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

(The following requirements will determine merit system eligibility, experience and education ratings, and may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers. When practical and possible, the Division of Personnel will accept substitution of experience and education on a year-for-year basis.)

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Recreational Therapy; OR in Recreation with a minimum of 9 earned credit hours in Recreational Therapy.

OR

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: Recreation, Physical Education, Recreation and Leisure Studies, Art Therapy, or a closely related field; and,

One or more years of professional experience in therapeutic recreation.

(Revised 12/1/07 )