Merit Health Central

Job Summary

The Recreational Therapist - Certified is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic recreation programs to support the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of patients. Through structured individual and group activities, the Recreational Therapist collaborates with interdisciplinary team members to promote recovery, independence, and an improved quality of life.

Essential Functions

• Conducts patient assessments to evaluate leisure interests, abilities, and therapeutic needs, using standardized tools and clinical judgment.
• Develops individualized treatment plans with measurable goals aligned with the patient's medical and behavioral health care objectives.
• Implements evidence-based recreational therapy interventions, including structured group and individual sessions, leisure education, and skill-building activities.
• Monitors patient progress and revises treatment plans as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary treatment team to support discharge planning and promote continued therapeutic engagement post-discharge.
• Assists with maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment, including participation in safety rounds and inspection of patient areas for contraband in behavioral health settings.
• Documents patient assessments, treatment plans, session notes, and outcomes in accordance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.
• Educates patients and families on the value of recreation in health and wellness to support long-term recovery and community reintegration.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in recreation healthcare related field, preferably in recreation therapy required
• 0-1 years of experience in a clinical or behavioral health setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of therapeutic recreation principles and interventions.
• Ability to plan and lead engaging, therapeutic activities tailored to patient needs.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with patients, families, and care teams.
• High level of empathy, patience, and clinical judgment.
• Proficient in documenting clinical services in an electronic health record system.

Licenses and Certifications

• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• CTRS - Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist preferred or
• OT - Occupational Therapist - Registered preferred