RECREATIONAL THERAPIST II

DEFINITION

This is mid-level supervisory and professional recreational therapy work involving the assessment, instruction, evaluation, and supervision of clients in recreational activities as part of a therapeutic/rehabilitative program.

This description may not include all of the duties, knowledge, skills, or abilities associated with this classification.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Performs advanced clinical recreational therapy functions in a program for persons with mental illness, mental retardation/developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities; directs a facility-wide recreational therapy program of limited scope, or a major phase of a complex recreational therapy program.

Plans and organizes a variety of recreational therapy activities based on medical prescription or individual treatment plan; works with other Recreational Therapists to ensure professional standards are maintained.

Plans and supervises the work of lower-level staff and volunteers engaged in recreational therapy activities with clients; monitors activities to ensure conformance to client and program objectives.

Participates in meetings and conferences with medical and professional staff concerning designing or modifying individual and/or group treatment plans.

Evaluates clients' functioning level reflecting physical, social, mental, and emotional needs, abilities, and interest for placement in a recreational treatment program.

Develops, organizes, and coordinates recreational activities for special seasonal events and programs.

Establishes and maintains contact with community organizations to stimulate interest and participation in recreational therapy programs.

Supervises students participating in an established Recreational Therapy Student Internship Program.

Maintains an inventory of equipment and supplies used in recreational activities; requisitions necessary materials.

Exercises considerable independence and discretion in carrying out assignments in conformance with program objectives and professional standards; receives general supervision through progress reports, conferences, and observation.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

Intermediate knowledge of the principles and practices of recreational therapy and the ability to apply them.

Intermediate knowledge of the techniques, methods, and goals of individual and group recreational activities.

Intermediate knowledge of the problems and behaviors of persons with mental illness, mental retardation/developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities.

Ability to assess the therapeutic techniques and practices of the recreational program, and to adapt treatment to individual and group needs.

Ability to plan, supervise, and participate in therapeutic recreational activities.

Ability to observe clients' progress and prepare clear and concise reports.

Ability to teach the principles, practices, and techniques of recreational therapy to staff and volunteers.

Ability to operate and make minor adjustments and repairs to standard recreational therapy equipment.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and clients.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

(The following requirements will determine merit system eligibility, experience and education ratings, and may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers. When practical and possible, the Division of Personnel will accept substitution of experience and education on a year-for-year basis.)

Two or more years of experience as a Recreational Therapist I with the Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System.

OR

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Recreational Therapy; OR in Recreation with a minimum of 9 earned credit hours in Recreational Therapy; and,

Two or more years of professional experience in therapeutic recreation.

OR

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: Recreation, Physical Education, Recreation and Leisure Studies, Art Therapy, or a closely related field; and,

Three or more years of professional experience in therapeutic recreation.

(Revised 12/1/07 )