Equine Therapist

American Addiction Centers•Etta, MS

About The Position

The Equine Therapist facilitates equine-assisted therapy groups for patients and conducts skills assessments as part of the initial assessment process. The role develops and implements age-appropriate equine activity plans consistent with patients’ growth, development, and functioning, as well as their overall treatment plans and goals. This includes maintaining a schedule of arena and trail rides. The position also oversees equine programming and the daily operations of the Equestrian Center, including horse care and feeding, patient safety, and trail rides. The therapist collaborates with the treatment team and other staff, documents patients’ clinical progress, and maintains required licensure, certifications, and continuing education.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.
CEALS or related certification, or obtain this certification within six months of hire.
Working knowledge of Microsoft and Google products.
Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Attend team meetings and keep the supervisor, therapists, and other staff informed about patient progress.
Complete required clinical-course documentation in the approved format, including progress notes and other documentation in a timely manner.
Conduct groups and therapeutic activities as assigned by the supervisor.
Conduct individualized patient therapy.
Conduct equine groups for Residential/Resolutions program patients.
Oversee trail rides while maintaining a patient-to-staff ratio of 5:1.
Oversee and ensure patient safety during equine programming.
Oversee the daily operations of the Equine Program and Equestrian Center.
Oversee the care and feeding of horses.
Participate in clinical supervision as needed.
Communicate relevant information to BHTs and other staff.
Advise the treatment team and other staff of potential problems and report problems to the appropriate supervisor.
Provide the facility with current licensure and certifications.
Participate in continuing education courses as required by licensure or certification and provide a copy to the facility.
Maintain current CPR and CPI certification.
Conduct leisure skills assessments as needed.