Activity Therapist Assistant

Recreational Therapist

Purpose Statement: Assist with planning, developing, organizing, implementing and directing individual and group activities/recreation within the facility.

Essential Functions:

• Organize, lead and promote interest in recreational activities to patients and their families.
• Serve as a resource for new patients introducing them to other patients and staff, explaining programs and encouraging participation.
• Explain the rules of activities and instruct participants at a variety of skill levels.
• Document activity interventions and patient progress in the medical record per facility documentation requirements.
• Seek supervision and support when complications arise in dealing with a patient either in an individual or group setting.
• Enforce safety rules to prevent injury and modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.
• Organize and set up the equipment that is used in recreational activities.
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

Other Functions:

• Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.

Education/Experience/Skill Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's degree in activity therapy or related field preferred.
• Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility also preferred.

Licenses/Designations/Certifications:

• CPR and de-escalation/restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
• First aid may be required based on state or facility.