Recreation Therapy Specialist

Youth Villages•Memphis, TN

64d•$50,000 - $57,000•Onsite

About The Position

Youth Villages is a national leader in the implementation of research-based treatment philosophies in the field of children's mental and behavioral health. Our commitment to helping troubled children and their families find success spans 30++ years and includes a comprehensive array of programs and services. If you are looking for a positive career move where you are meeting the challenges of life and striving to make a positive difference, then Youth Villages is the place for you. We are looking for people with a strong sense of purpose and focus to continually build confidence in yourself and our organization. Youth Villages' Residential Treatment programs serve children with emotional and behavioral problems. Our residential campuses provide the setting for an intensive treatment program that combines the unique balance of structure and freedom. This enables children and their families to identify, understand and cope with their individual needs and develop the skills necessary to succeed in less restrictive settings. We have three different types of facilities-Intensive Residential Centers, Open Campuses, and Group Homes. Are you looking for a change of pace? Do you enjoy working with children in a non-traditional setting? The Recreation Therapy position may be just what you are looking for. Our Recreation Therapists work with young people in a Residential setting to develop their abilities to interact with others in a team and increase their self-esteem. An ideal Recreation Therapist is creative, enthusiastic and can come up with new and innovative games and activities to keep the resident's engaged, all while building confidence in their abilities and promoting their teamwork skills. Recreation Therapist Specialists facilitate groups with the youth on a daily basis and coordinate additional activities for the campus.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy is required
Experience working with youth is required
Excellent written, verbal, and oral skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Basic computer knowledge
Ability to maintain a flexible schedule
Applicants must have valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

CTRS certified is preferred, must be eligible
Experience working with at-risk youth a major plus

Responsibilities

Coordinates activities of recreation service personnel in a staff secured residential treatment facility for youth by performing the following duties. Other duties may be assigned.
Manages student council and volunteer activities for youth involved.
Oversees the use of canoeing and high ropes courses equipment and resident participation on applicable campus'.
Develops and promotes recreation program, including music, dance, arts and crafts, cultural arts, nature study, swimming, social recreation and games, or camping. Promotes life skills training through therapeutic activities
Adapts recreation programs to meet needs residents of agency.
Promotes and coordinates participation in clubs and organizations as may be helpful to the development of individual children.
Works in team with administrative or other professional personnel such as those engaged in medicine, social work, nursing, psychology, and therapy, to ensure that recreation is well balanced, coordinated, and integrated with special services.
Ensures that relevant information is conveyed to treatment team members.
Ensures that required notes and documentation are completed in a timely manner
Maintains recreation equipment and consults with appropriate staff for replacement of depleted equipment.
Oversees initial recreational assessment upon intake (within 14 days)
Introduces and trains new program activities, equipment, and materials to staff.