Full-time Expressive Therapist -Tues-Satur

Benchmark Senior Living•Newton, MA

About The Position

Searching for an Expressive Therapist to provide quality non-verbal and verbal enrichment offerings with the influence of art, music, and movement for residents in our memory care community. The role would include expanding the diverse definition of each wellness activity to meet residents where they are to enhance quality of life. The expressive therapist, or someone interested in the field, would work on a team with an art and music therapist to independently lead, co-lead, and support small, large, and individualized programming.

Requirements

Board Certified Expressive Therapist REATS, LHMC, DMT-BC, MT-BC Memory Care & Assisted Living
Accredited Bachelors AND/OR Masters of Mental Health Counseling- Expressive Therapy
Must have a high school diploma, bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience and knowledge of aging and disability issues.
Must be qualified by experience and training to develop programs appropriate for elders and disabled individuals.
Valid driver’s license.
Shows familiarity and experience using a wide variety of equipment related to the recreational programs of elders and the disabled, including, but not limited to, craft supplies, VCR, stereo, stove, and food preparation equipment.
Maintains a high level of confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community.
Shows an ability to relate to and perform job functions for the elderly in a positive and efficient manner.
Pursues educational development in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.
Possesses training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s and related disorders.
Demonstrates understanding of the emotional stress of having a loved one with dementia by responding professionally and sensitively to the family’s needs.
Possesses knowledge of policies in the Harbor Family Handbook.

Responsibilities

Assists in the development and implementation of an innovative daily program for residents.
Leads and implements one-on-ones, small group and large group activities according to the programming schedule.
Supports, encourages and directs independent activity pursuits, both individually and in small groups.
Supports the resident’s abilities by understanding that all aspects of care can be viewed as an activity.
Demonstrates knowledge about residents regarding background, participation needs, physical abilities, interests, cognitive capacity and attention span capability.
Communicates any changes in the residents’ condition or behavior pattern to Program Director or Nurse.
Responds to emergencies and personal emergency response system and knows when to call for backup.
Effectively handles difficult resident behaviors.
Reacts calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
Documents and provides accurate record-keeping as appropriate.
Communicates and documents residents’ material needs (i.e., briefs, clothing, toothpaste, pads, etc.).
Accurately completes incident reports prior to the end of the working day.
Demonstrates knowledge of Benchmark Standards and Practices.
Demonstrates working knowledge of state regulations.
Participates in training / in-services as required by Benchmark and state regulations.
Actively participates in local community activities and in professional associations, representing the community in a manner that brings positive recognition, enhances marketing activity, and generates wider awareness of Benchmark.