Therapeutic Specialist

Metropolitan Ministries•Seffner, FL

About The Position

The Therapeutic Specialist participates in CREATE therapeutic programming in an afterschool environment serving children and families experiencing homelessness in Metropolitan Ministries’ onsite housing programs. Working on a multidisciplinary team, the specialist designs and facilitates therapeutic group activities to support children’s socioemotional growth and development. The role focuses on the therapeutic needs of school-age students and uses therapeutic recreation modalities. Duties include assessment, intervention planning and implementation, follow-up, family engagement, and collaboration with staff and community partners. The specialist maintains program data and tracks outcomes. The general schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with occasional flexibility to work 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to meet program and family needs. Evening meetings may also be required.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in therapeutic recreation, child/human/family development (with a child life concentration or minor), or a mental health field.
At least three years of experience in recreation therapy or a related field for candidates with a bachelor’s degree.
Direct experience working with children and parents.
Ability to work effectively with children and parents and communicate their status and progress to small groups and professionals.
Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team framework.
Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to supervise children.
Strong oral and written communication, group leadership, and facilitation skills.
Dependability, maturity, and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences.
Ability to handle job-related matters professionally, diplomatically, and confidentially; work with minimal supervision; and accept direction.
Strong organization and attention to detail.
Computer literacy and knowledge of Microsoft Access, Word, and Excel.
Comfort working with poor and homeless families and individuals, and understanding of poverty and the needs of low-socioeconomic and diverse populations facing crisis situations.
Understanding of Social Determinants of Health, ACES, and Trauma-Informed Care.
Knowledge of community resources available to the homeless population.
Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to faith, culture, and other sources of diversity.
Ability to pass applicable pre-employment screening and demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States.
Valid driver’s license and ability to transport self and clients when necessary.
Availability to work during normal school hours and attend evening meetings as required.
Ability to meet the physical requirements, including hearing and speaking effectively and maintaining the physical and emotional stamina needed to handle job-related issues and stress.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a related field.
Bilingual ability.
National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) or Child Life Certification.

Responsibilities

Assess students’ needs through observation, school and medical records, tests, and consultation with professionals, teachers, families, and students.
Create treatment plans and programs that meet students’ needs and interests using a Trauma-Informed Care approach.
Plan and implement interventions to mitigate the effects of trauma.
Complete timely assessments and documentation, including biopsychosocial assessments, progress notes, and summaries of service notes.
Gather and analyze data, record and evaluate student progress, and assess intervention effectiveness.
Use evidence-based approaches such as Conscious Discipline, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Develop therapeutic goals and interventions for a caseload of 2–3 children.
Facilitate weekly therapeutic group lessons and activities using modalities such as arts and crafts, drama, music, dance, sports, games, and field trips.
Help students develop healthy ways to express and manage emotions, cope with anxiety, stressors, and depression, and build social, interpersonal, and communication skills and self-confidence.
Train and support staff teams and parents to improve the effectiveness of interventions.
Collect and report ongoing data and program outcomes.
Collaborate with community partners and other disciplines to provide intervention programs.
Work with staff to implement PATHS and Second Steps social-emotional curricula within peer groups.
Design, plan, and facilitate opportunities to increase parent involvement and family engagement.
Participate in regular team meetings to develop student plans and monitor progress.
Complete Childcare Licensing training and in-service requirements.
Maintain confidential records and professional boundaries.
Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling to meet client and program needs.
Participate in holiday efforts, Bridge Builders, and other fundraising events when needed.
Provide facility tours and speak on behalf of Metropolitan Ministries as needed.
Support the team and supervisor with other assigned tasks and contribute to team and organizational goals.

Benefits

Group health, vision, and dental coverage at affordable rates, with the option to purchase family coverage.
Preventive care covered at 100% on all plans.
11 days of PTO and 10 paid holidays annually.
Option to participate in a 401(k) plan with employer match.
$15,000 employee life insurance paid for by Metropolitan Ministries.
Employee Assistance Program.
Option to participate in supplemental group insurance plans at affordable rates.
Tuition reimbursement program.
Training and career development.
Discounted YMCA membership.