Recreational Therapist (CTRS)

About the Role:

Our Recreational Therapist (CTRS) at Beacon in New Orleans plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges by designing and implementing therapeutic recreational programs. This position focuses on assessing patients' needs and interests to develop personalized treatment plans that promote wellness, independence, and social engagement. Our therapist collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to integrate recreational therapy into comprehensive care strategies. Through evidence-based interventions, our CTRS help patients improve their physical abilities, reduce stress, and foster positive behavioral changes. Ultimately, this role contributes to the holistic rehabilitation and overall well-being of diverse patient populations across various healthcare and community settings.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy or a related field.
• Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).
• Valid state licensure or registration if required by the state of employment.
• Strong knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles and practices.
• Experience working with diverse patient populations in clinical or community settings.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Recreational Therapy, Rehabilitation Counseling, or a related discipline.
• Experience with electronic health records (EHR) and documentation software.
• Training or certification in specialized therapeutic modalities such as aquatic therapy or cognitive rehabilitation.
• Previous experience in a hospital, rehabilitation center, or long-term care facility.
• Bilingual abilities or experience working with multicultural populations.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' recreational interests, abilities, and therapeutic needs.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that utilize recreational activities to achieve therapeutic goals.
• Facilitate group and individual therapy sessions using activities such as arts and crafts, sports, games, and community outings.
• Monitor and document patient progress, adjusting treatment plans as necessary to optimize outcomes.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, family members, and caregivers to ensure coordinated and effective care.
• Educate patients and their families about the benefits of recreational therapy and encourage active participation.
• Maintain compliance with professional standards, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.

Skills:

The required skills enable the Recreational Therapist to effectively assess patient needs and design engaging, therapeutic activities that promote recovery and well-being. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for collaborating with healthcare teams and motivating patients and their families. Organizational skills support the management of multiple treatment plans and accurate documentation of patient progress. Preferred skills such as proficiency with electronic health records streamline administrative tasks and enhance care coordination. Additionally, specialized therapeutic knowledge and cultural competence allow the therapist to tailor interventions to diverse populations, maximizing the impact of recreational therapy.