Recreation Therapist

Alaris Health at Cedar Grove, a skilled nursing facility located in Cedar Grove, NJ, is seeking a Recreation Therapist for their Behavioral Health Unit. The Recreation Therapist will collaborate with other recreation staff to plan and assist in research projects and therapeutic programs that benefit the Behavioral Health residents and their families.

Recreation Therapist BHU Job Responsibilities:

• Assist with planning the recreation program by contributing to the development of program philosophies and policies, writing procedures, goals and objectives for the program, and establishing an individualized recreation plan based on each resident's needs, interests, and abilities;
• Work with the Recreation Director to plan programs based on the resident’s needs, interests, and abilities, encouraging resident involvement in recreation program planning;
• Contribute to the development of the resident care plan, maintain adequate records on volunteers, and comply with government standards for documentation;
• Provide resources for the special interests of residents, whenever possible, as well as materials for independent activities. While a schedule of a variety of group activities is important, flexibility in the program for spontaneous activities is also necessary;
• Ensure that residents and families receive the highest quality of service in a caring and compassionate atmosphere that recognizes the individual’s needs and rights;
• Have training and certification in Crisis Prevention Intervention and the ability to demonstrate advanced behavioral techniques;
• Possess experience in working with complex and/or severe behavioral residents and applying therapeutic techniques to deescalate the resident;
• Lead various educational and therapeutic program topics related to, but not limited to ADL care, hygiene, social skills, coping skills, and anger management;
• Recognize escalating aggressive behaviors and provide calm redirection to a controlled, safe environment;
• Work with mentally ill residents having special needs and/or aggressive behaviors;
• Have a minimum of 3 years of experience working with behavioral residents preferred.

Job Requirements:

• BA/BS in a Healthcare Field OR
• Certificate of completion of the MEPAP I/II State certified Course ADC or CTRS;
• Certification in accordance with regulatory agencies governing the facility;
• Associate degree in recreation is preferred.

FT Benefits:

• PTO
• Health and Dental insurance
• 401k
• Referral bonuses
• Tuition reimbursement