Therapeutic Rec Counselor

Job Title

Therapeutic Recreation Counselor

Job Description

The Therapeutic Recreation Counselor works collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team to assess needs, develop and implement treatment interventions, and contribute to a structured, supportive, and person-centered therapeutic environment. This position supports both individual and group programming within residential, educational, and community-based settings. This role utilizes evidence-based therapeutic recreation and experiential learning techniques to support individualized treatment goals, enhance social, emotional, and functional development, and promote overall well-being.

WORK SCHEDULE:

Adelbrook is a 24/7 operating Agency. Schedules are flexible, may include early mornings, evenings, overnights, weekdays, weekends, holidays, mandated overtime, mandated holds, and on call responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conduct therapeutic recreation assessments and contribute to the development of individualized treatment plans.

Plan, implement, and facilitate therapeutic recreation interventions using experiential learning and evidence-based practices.

Lead individual and group activities that promote skill development, socialization, independence, and emotional regulation.

Collaborate with clinical, residential, educational, and related service staff to ensure consistency and integration of treatment goals.

Provide input to the treatment team regarding behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs of individuals served.

Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including progress notes, activity logs, and treatment plan updates.

Assist in the coordination and scheduling of therapeutic recreation programming across program settings.

Develop and facilitate culturally responsive and inclusive recreational activities and events.

Collaborate with other disciplines (e.g., Occupational Therapy, Behavioral Services) to enhance programming and support individualized needs.

Support the planning and facilitation of special events and community-based activities.

Maintain inventory of recreational equipment and supplies and ensure appropriate use of resources.

Provide training and support to staff related to therapeutic recreation principles and activity implementation.

Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.

Transport individuals to recreational and community activities as needed.

Model appropriate behavior, professionalism, and therapeutic engagement at all times.

Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations and agency mission.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

SKILLS:

Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills Effective verbal and written communication skills

Organizational and time management skills

Group facilitation and activity planning skills

Ability to implement therapeutic interventions and adapt activities to individual needs

Problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Documentation and recordkeeping skills

Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team

KNOWLEDGE:

Principles and practices of therapeutic recreation and experiential learning

Developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of individuals with ASD and IDD

Group dynamics and behavior management strategies

Person-centered and trauma-informed care approaches

Recreational programming and activity design

Basic health, safety, and risk management practices in recreational settings

Documentation standards and treatment planning processes

ABILITIES:

Ability to engage individuals in meaningful therapeutic activities across varying levels of ability

Ability to assess needs and adapt programming to support individualized goals

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with team members

Ability to maintain professionalism and sound judgment in dynamic or high-stress situations

Ability to build rapport with individuals served, families, and staff

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain flexibility in a fast-paced environment

Ability to support a diverse population with cultural sensitivity and respect

Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of 60 college credits and/or Associate's Degree required; Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field preferred

Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or eligibility to obtain certification preferred

Experience working with individuals with ASD and/or IDD preferred

Experience facilitating therapeutic recreation or group-based programming

Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications (PMT, First Aid, CPR; training provided)

Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work occurs in residential, educational, community, and recreational settings

May involve crisis response and physical intervention in accordance with training.

Perform all requirements of physical management techniques (PMT)

Regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and active physical engagement required

Exposure to behaviors requiring de-escalation and therapeutic intervention

A job description is not meant to be all inclusive of every task and/or responsibility

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.