Recreational Therapist / Therapeutic Arts Specialist

Sage Eldercare Solutions • San Rafael, CA

1d • $39 - $43 • Hybrid

About The Position

Sage Eldercare Solutions (SES) has been dedicated to promoting quality of care and quality of life for older adults since 2001. Our team consists of expert problem-solvers, advocates, service coordinators, and QOL Engagement Specialists who possess an intimate knowledge of community resources and a deep understanding of aging-related issues. The Hummingbird Program was established on the belief that quality of life is as crucial as quality of care. This program is staffed by a unique group of trained professionals dedicated to addressing the emotional, intellectual, creative, environmental, physical, vocational, and spiritual needs of individuals. The Quality of Life (QOL) Engagement Specialist, working in close collaboration with the Director and Manager of the Hummingbird Project Services, plays a vital role in planning and delivering Hummingbird services. This role is grounded in creative best practices, with the QOL Engagement Specialist dedicating 85% of their paid time to providing direct, billable services, either in-person or virtually. This position is ideal for a creative, dynamic, and self-driven therapeutic arts or recreation professional with extensive experience in delivering quality of life services within the field of aging. A successful candidate will be passionate about working with older adults and adults with disabilities, demonstrating tenacity, an out-of-the-box thinking approach, and problem-solving skills. They should bring optimism about client possibilities and a commitment to a culture of excellence.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to provide sound professional guidance, grounded in in-depth knowledge and experience in the field of aging, arts, and therapeutic activity best practices.
• In-depth knowledge of all aspects of the aging process, and conditions affecting older adults and adults with disabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of the impact of clinical mental health issues in the aging population, including depression, dementia, substance abuse, sleep and eating disorders, apathy, resistance, and assessment of danger to self and others.
• Proven ability to exercise sound judgment in making decisions regarding mandatory reporting and legal issues.
• Highly skilled in formulating holistic quality of life assessments and in developing Quality of Life Plans that incorporate effective use of resources, creative problem-solving, and a wide variety of quality of life activities.
• Highly skilled in curriculum development and training.
• Proven ability to skillfully navigate complex family and professional dynamics to overcome challenges and achieve positive outcomes for clients.
• Resourceful and creative in the use of local and other eldercare resources.
• Able to support clients, staff, and interdisciplinary teams from a strength-based perspective and inspire others to achieve their best work.
• Impeccable attention to detail.
• Integrity, honesty, and commitment to high standards of excellence and professional ethics.
• Commitment to working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent listening and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Ability to prioritize work and manage time effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive, Google Chrome, Zoom.
• Mental Health Professional or comparable training and experience in Therapeutic Arts including a credential in music, art, recreation, drama or expressive arts therapies OR a bachelor's degree and 10 years of experience working with older adults using art and recreation.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience working with older adults.
• Empathetic and compassionate with a creative approach to developing individualized activity plans.
• Proficient in holistic quality of life, life enrichment, and engagement practices.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to engage and comfort a diverse range of individuals.
• Excellent written communication skills and time management abilities.
• Experienced with G-Suite and video communication platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts.
• May transport clients as part of job responsibilities. Must maintain a valid driver’s license and meet the organization’s auto insurance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conducts initial phone calls with prospective clients and community members, demonstrating a holistic understanding of their quality of life interests and needs, and clearly articulating how The Hummingbird Project can address these needs.
• Conducts in-home assessments of new clients to gather information for formulating and delivering creative, customized Quality of Life Plans focused on enhancing clients’ quality of life across seven domains of wellness.
• Develops written Quality of Life Plans post-assessment, focusing on creativity and client joy, which can be shared with clients and/or responsible parties.
• Implements all aspects of the Quality of Life Plan, including obtaining necessary materials, identifying barriers, and strategizing solutions.
• Regularly develops new Quality of Life activities that align with creative best practices and target optimal individualized quality of life outcomes.
• Updates and modifies individual Quality of Life Plans to accommodate changing client needs and introduce new ideas.
• Establishes positive and engaging working relationships, communicating effectively with a wide range of clients and responsible parties.
• Navigates family dynamics to maximize success in achieving quality of life goals.
• Develops and implements curricula for group settings, including assisted living facilities, family caregiver support groups, and care provider training.
• Plans and delivers Sage’s Home Care Quality of Life Programming, including monthly consultations and training with Personal Care Assistants (PCAs), developing written instructions, and providing ongoing support for QOL activities delivered by PCAs.
• Completes a monthly report for each Home Care client served, summarizing activities, client responses, and enhanced quality of life domains.
• Maintains up-to-date documentation, including Engagement Plans and summaries of engagement activities.
• Communicates regularly in writing, by phone, or in person with elder care professionals to advocate for clients’ needs and optimal outcomes.
• Works collaboratively to build relationships within the community to elevate Hummingbird’s profile and cultivate new business and referrals.
• Represents The Hummingbird Project in community and professional forums.
• Helps maintain an active list of professional contacts and engages with them to share information and explore collaborations.
• Generously shares knowledge, offers support, and guidance to team members through monthly meetings and sharing information from workshops, readings, and experiences.
• Takes initiative to present or share new knowledge useful to team members in planning and delivering Hummingbird services.

Benefits

• PTO and paid holidays
• health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• 401(k) employer match
• annual gift when the company goals are met
• professional growth through continuing education funds, mentorship, and promotion opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level