Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Diversified Treatment Alternative Centers•Cranberry Township, PA

4d•$21 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Diversified Treatment Alternative Centers (DTAC) is seeking a dedicated and clinically driven Therapeutic Recreation Specialist to support their residential treatment program for female adolescents ages 12–17. This role offers the opportunity to use recreation as a therapeutic intervention, helping youth build healthy coping skills, improve social functioning, and achieve long-term success in a structured, trauma-informed environment. The Therapeutic Recreation Specialist works as part of the interdisciplinary treatment team to develop and implement structured, trauma-informed recreational programming. This role is essential in promoting emotional regulation, social skills development, and positive behavioral change.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years of therapeutic recreation or related experience OR Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation OR Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field with residential programming experience
Active CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist) credential
Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience
Strong documentation, organization, and communication skills
Ability to pass required background clearances

Nice To Haves

Experience working in residential treatment settings
Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles
Familiarity with clinical models such as DBT-A
Experience facilitating therapeutic and psychoeducational groups

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all clients
Conduct functional baseline assessments to identify client strengths and needs
Develop and implement individualized and group recreation treatment plans
Plan and facilitate on-site and off-site recreational activities
Co-facilitate psychoeducational and skills-based groups
Support adherence to clinical models, including DBT-A
Model appropriate coping skills, communication, and emotional regulation
Maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes and incident reports
Collaborate with therapists, leadership, and treatment team members
Transport clients to appointments when required
Maintain professional boundaries and ensure HIPAA compliance
Participate in scheduled shift coverage, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Commitment to maintaining sight-line supervision standards
Completion of required documentation with high accuracy
Compliance with all training and regulatory requirements
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays