Director of Recreation Therapy

San Antonio Behavioral Health • San Antonio, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

San Antonio Behavioral Healthcare Hospital is a 198-bed, acute-care psychiatric and substance abuse treatment facility located in the Northwest San Antonio Medical Center. Our highly trained team of behavioral health professionals are dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized, and trauma-informed care for our patients. We are seeking a Director of Recreation Therapy to join our team. The Director of Recreation Therapy designs and oversees evidence-based, client-centered recreational activities (such as arts, physical wellness, and social events) that improve patients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Requirements

• A bachelor's or master's degree in recreational therapy, therapeutic recreation, or a closely related field.
• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential issued by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification in the State of Texas.
• 2 to 5 years of clinical experience.
• Must possess or obtain a valid CPR certification and de-escalation training before completing new hire orientation.
• Deep understanding of therapeutic recreation practices, patient assessment tools, and individualized treatment planning
• Familiarity with healthcare regulations, safety standards, and compliance documentation systems
• Knowledge of aging processes, disabilities, and mental health issues affecting diverse patient populations
• Understanding of budgeting, financial management, and resource allocation
• Proven ability to train, motivate, and direct professional and support staff
• Excellent verbal and written skills to coordinate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, families, and administrators
• Creative and practical decision-making abilities to handle emergencies and navigate complex dynamics
• Ability to deal tactfully with patients, families, visitors, and community organizations
• Ability to design, implement, and evaluate engaging recreational activities tailored to specific clinical goals
• Ability to make sound, independent decisions during clinical or operational challenges

Nice To Haves

• Supervisory or leadership background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Designing therapeutic activities, managing department budgets, supervising therapists and activity staff, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations
• Understands both clinical and recreational modalities to create engaging activities that are tailored to meet the diverse needs of patients
• Supervise, hire, train, and evaluate recreation therapists, activity coordinators, and volunteers
• Collaborating with medical teams, physical therapists, and social workers to align recreational programs with overall patient treatment plans
• Manage department financial operations, equipment purchasing, and resource allocation within set budget limits
• Assess the effectiveness of ongoing therapy initiatives and adjust programming based on patient feedback and clinical outcomes
• Perform other duties as per the requirements of the organization

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• 401K Retirement Plan
• Healthcare Spending Account
• Dependent Care Spending Account
• PTO Plan with Holiday Premium Pay
• Life Insurance (Supplemental Life, Term, and Universal plans are also available.)
• Short and Long-Term Disability (with additional buy-in opportunities)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager