Recreational Activity Associate

NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals•Mishawaka, IN

About The Position

NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals (NPH) is a national behavioral healthcare provider specializing in care for patients with acute psychiatric and complex medical needs. The Recreational Activity Associate works at NPH’s Mishawaka location as part of a patient-centered, interdisciplinary care team. The role plans, sets up, and leads recreational activities, supports participants with special needs, and maintains recreational equipment. Activities are intended to encourage participation and support patients’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Basic Life Support (BLS) and Handle with Care (HWC) credentials, to be obtained during orientation.
Ability to work well with patients who need behavioral or recreational therapy.
Ability to lead and motivate people.
Good planning and organizational skills.
Ability to take initiative.
Creativity and resourcefulness in therapy techniques.
Good computer skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in a behavioral health setting.
At least 2 years of experience in a direct care role is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead or oversee individual and group activities daily and encourage patient participation.
Assist the Director in implementing scheduled or suggested activities using games, arts, sports, crafts, music, dance, movement, and drama.
Teach patients relaxation techniques and stretching exercises to help with anxiety.
Use appropriate activities and techniques to encourage participation by introverted patients and those uncomfortable in social settings.
Use physical activities to help patients adapt to impaired mobility.
Update the Director on patient participation and reactions to activities, and report unusual behaviors or symptoms to the clinical team.
Complete required documentation in accordance with hospital requirements.
Unpack and store supplies and keep the activity storage area neat and clean.
Collect supplies after activities and return furniture to its original position.
Perform cleaning tasks to assist with infection control.
Keep informed about developments in the field through relevant literature and attendance at seminars or conferences.
Float to other units or facilities as assigned.
Maintain a professional approach and protect the confidentiality and privacy of health information.
Follow NPH compliance standards and applicable federal, state, and hospital regulations, laws, and policies.