Activities Aide - Department of Mental Health

This position exists in the County Mental Health Department and involves responsibility for working with clients and carrying out routine elements of a treatment plan designed by professional interdisciplinary team members to encourage and guide clients in developing good daily living habits and skills. Employees in this class have continuous contact with clients making the position critical to the success of individual treatment plans. An incumbent's work with particular clients is performed underthe supervision of mental health professionals’ assigned overall responsibility for the clients’ treatment plan. Supervision over the work of others is not a responsibility of employees in this class. The incumbent does related work as required. Observes assigned clients psychological condition and reports unusual occurrences to supervisor; Organizes, with client participation, social activities such as dances, picnics, shopping trips, field trips, etc., and to cultural and athletic events in order to develop clients' social and individual awareness and develop body and mind coordination; Prepares supplies and equipment for groups; Aids in inventory of supplies and equipment for groups; Listens to clients in a receptive manner assisting them in expressing their problems verbally; Aids in planning recreational programs under direction of staff professionals and distributes materials for use in program events and activities; Guides and interests clients in participating in games which increases their alertness of numbers, words, and concepts of money and property such as card games, board games, etc.; Participates at team meetings by communicating observations concerning client progress and reactions various to therapy programs; Escorts clients to therapy sessions, recreational activities, cultural events, shopping trips, etc., to insure their safety and enjoyment and to provide personal guidance; Assists in daily clean-up of program facilities; Coordinates use and care of program van. Working knowledge of basic principles, practices and terminology involved in the treatment of the mentally ill, developmentally disabled or handicapped, including arts, crafts, games, sports, hobbies and similar activities which might be employed in a treatment process; ability to work with program clients through behavior or conversation which should be brought to the attention of appropriate professional staff; ability to follow oral and written instructions; ability to walk, stand, bend and stretch for long periods of time; ability to complete written forms and simple reports in an accurate manner.

ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: