This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Recreational Therapist II
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is mid-level professional and supervisory recreational therapy work involving the assessment, instruction, evaluation, and oversight of clients in recreational activities as part of a therapeutic/rehabilitative program.
Performs advanced clinical recreational therapy functions in a program for persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities; directs a facility-wide recreational therapy program of limited scope, or a major phase of a complex recreational therapy program.
Plans and supervises the work of lower-level staff and volunteers engaged in recreational therapy activities with clients; monitors activities to ensure conformance to client and program objectives.
Plans and organizes a variety of recreational therapy activities based on medical prescription or individual treatment plan; works with other Recreational Therapists to ensure professional standards are maintained.
Participates in meetings and conferences with medical and professional staff concerning designing or modifying individual and/or group treatment plans.
Evaluates clients' functioning level reflecting physical, social, mental, and emotional needs, abilities, and interest for placement in a recreational treatment program.
Develops, organizes, and coordinates recreational activities for special seasonal events and programs.
Establishes and maintains contact with community organizations to stimulate interest and participation in recreational therapy programs.
Supervises students participating in an established Recreational Therapy Student Internship Program.
Maintains an inventory of equipment and supplies used in recreational activities; requisitions materials.
Exercises considerable independence and discretion in carrying out assignments in conformance with program objectives and professional standards; receives general supervision through progress reports, conferences, and observation.
Performs other related work as assigned.
(The following minimum qualifications will determine merit system eligibility. Allowable experience and education substitutes are provided in italics below the corresponding minimum qualification statement; no other substitutions will be permitted. These minimum qualifications may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers.)
Two or more years of experience as a Recreational Therapist I with the Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System.
OR
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 12 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation, Leisure Studies, Physical Education, Music Therapy, Art Therapy, Exercise Physiology, Health and Fitness, Wellness, Sports Management, Expressive Arts, Horticulture, Geriatrics, Special Education, or a closely related field; and,
Two or more years of professional experience conducting planned activities for persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities in one or more of the following areas: recreation, physical education, arts and crafts, horticulture, health and fitness, art/expressive arts, music, or a closely related area.
(One additional year of qualifying experience may substitute for the specialized earned credit hours.)
(24 earned graduate credit hours from an accredited college or university in the specified fields may substitute for the required education and one year of the required experience.)
(A Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in the specified fields may substitute for the required education and experience.)
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?
Intermediate knowledge of the principles and practices of recreational therapy and the ability to apply them.
Intermediate knowledge of the techniques, methods, and goals of individual and group recreational activities.
Intermediate knowledge of the problems and behaviors of persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities.
Ability to assess the therapeutic techniques and practices of a recreational program, and adapt treatment to individual and group needs.
Ability to plan, supervise, and participate in therapeutic recreational activities.
Ability to observe clients' progress and prepare clear and concise reports.
Ability to teach the principles, practices, and techniques of recreational therapy to staff and volunteers.
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.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits