RECREATION THERAPIST (BA)

UHS•Waipahu, HI

About The Position

Benchmark Behavioral Health System Hawaii provides 24-hour supervision and treatment for adolescents ages 12 to 17 with significant psychiatric issues, regardless of gender. Stays average 60 days. The program provides a secure, safe, therapeutic environment that promotes change by building skills for healthier relationships with family, friends, school, legal authorities, and the community. Benchmark Hawaii is seeking a compassionate and creative Recreational Therapist to support adolescents in a behavioral health residential setting through purposeful recreation and therapeutic activities. The role develops engaging therapeutic experiences that promote healing, self-expression, social skills, and healthy coping in a trauma-informed environment. The therapist conducts initial client assessments upon admission and assigns recreational therapy goals, with a strong focus on patient care.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy or a related field.
CTRS National Certification.
Working knowledge of behavioral health management practices and clinical operations.
Strong communication, creativity, and relationship-building skills.
Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Nice To Haves

One to three years of experience working with adolescents or in behavioral health.

Responsibilities

Perform initial admission requirements and documentation, and assign recreational therapy goals.
Plan and provide therapeutic recreational group activities tailored to clients’ needs, including community reintegration planning for clients who are discharging.
Collaborate with the treatment team to provide whole-person care.
Encourage positive peer interaction, emotional regulation, and self-esteem.
Foster a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment.