This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Activity Therapist
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is senior-level supervisory work providing client activity services in state facilities for persons with mental illness and/or developmental or physical disabilities.
Plans and leads a variety of specifically assigned client activities in the absence of a professional Recreational or Occupational Therapist.
Evaluates clients' capabilities and prepares recommendations on placement of clients in activity programs; correlates activities with clients’ needs to help achieve self adjustment and social acceptance.
Supervises non-professional staff and volunteers in conducting group activities.
Secures the cooperation of clients by encouraging their interest and participation in activity sessions; varies and adapts procedures used to attain desired objectives.
Prepares and maintains progress reports and required administrative and clinical records.
Requests supplies and equipment required for assigned activities.
Provides individual instruction for clients as required.
Attends and participates in staff and program planning meetings.
Performs duties under the supervision of a higher-level professional who reviews work in progress, and upon completion, for quality and achievement of established objectives.
Performs other related work as assigned.
(The following minimum qualifications will determine merit system eligibility. Allowable experience and education substitutions are provided in italics below the corresponding minimum qualification statement; no other substitutions will be permitted. These minimum qualifications may also be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers.)
One or more years of experience as an Activity Aide III with the Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System; and possession of a high school diploma or proof of high school equivalency.
OR
Four or more years of experience working with persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or the elderly population in one or more of the following areas: recreation, physical education, arts and crafts, horticulture, health and fitness, arts/expressive arts, music, or a closely related area; including one or more years of experience planning and leading activity programs; and possession of a high school diploma or proof of high school equivalency.
(Earned credit hours from an accredited college or university may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience at a rate of 30 earned credit hours for one year.)
Please note that documentation that supports your eligibility (i.e. transcripts, employment records, etc.) may be required at any time during the application and hiring process. If you do not possess the minimum qualifications, please consider one of many other employment opportunities with the State of Missouri.
Do you possess the key skills which are considered essential for successful employment in this classification?
Comprehensive knowledge of one or more activity areas such as recreation, occupational therapy, music, or arts and crafts.
Comprehensive knowledge of individual and group behavior and effective ways of working with clients.
Intermediate knowledge of the general nature of mental illness, and/or developmental or physical disabilities.
Intermediate knowledge of the general methods of preparing for and conducting planned sessions of group activities.
Intermediate knowledge of escort procedures, precautions, and appropriate techniques for assisting clients in emergencies.
Introductory knowledge of the general principles and techniques of supervision.
Ability to supervise and instruct clients, Activity Aides, and volunteers.
Ability to plan, organize, lead, vary, and adapt activities in accordance with client needs.
Ability to apply and adapt skills and knowledge of activity areas to planned sessions of therapeutic activities.
Ability to foster interest, initiative, responsibility, and experimentation in clients and discourage inappropriate responses.
Ability to observe client behavior, record observations, and prepare reports.
Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely.
Ability to work cooperatively with others.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits