Job Summary
The Therapeutic Recreation Counselor works collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team to assess needs, develop and implement treatment interventions, and contribute to a structured, supportive, and person-centered therapeutic environment. This position supports both individual and group programming within residential, educational, and community-based settings. This role utilizes evidence-based therapeutic recreation and experiential learning techniques to support individualized treatment goals, enhance social, emotional, and functional development, and promote overall well-being.
WORK SCHEDULE:
Adelbrook is a 24/7 operating Agency. Schedules are flexible, may include early mornings, evenings, overnights, weekdays, weekends, holidays, mandated overtime, mandated holds, and on call responsibilities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct therapeutic recreation assessments and contribute to the development of individualized treatment plans.
- Plan, implement, and facilitate therapeutic recreation interventions using experiential learning and evidence-based practices.
- Lead individual and group activities that promote skill development, socialization, independence, and emotional regulation.
- Collaborate with clinical, residential, educational, and related service staff to ensure consistency and integration of treatment goals.
- Provide input to the treatment team regarding behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs of individuals served.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including progress notes, activity logs, and treatment plan updates.
- Assist in the coordination and scheduling of therapeutic recreation programming across program settings.
- Develop and facilitate culturally responsive and inclusive recreational activities and events.
- Collaborate with other disciplines (e.g., Occupational Therapy, Behavioral Services) to enhance programming and support individualized needs.
- Support the planning and facilitation of special events and community-based activities.
- Maintain inventory of recreational equipment and supplies and ensure appropriate use of resources.
- Provide training and support to staff related to therapeutic recreation principles and activity implementation.
- Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
- Transport individuals to recreational and community activities as needed.
- Model appropriate behavior, professionalism, and therapeutic engagement at all times.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations and agency mission.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:
SKILLS:
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills • Effective verbal and written communication skills
•Organizational and time management skills
- Group facilitation and activity planning skills
- Ability to implement therapeutic interventions and adapt activities to individual needs
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Documentation and recordkeeping skills
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
KNOWLEDGE:
- Principles and practices of therapeutic recreation and experiential learning
- Developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of individuals with ASD and IDD
- Group dynamics and behavior management strategies
- Person-centered and trauma-informed care approaches
- Recreational programming and activity design
- Basic health, safety, and risk management practices in recreational settings
- Documentation standards and treatment planning processes
ABILITIES:
- Ability to engage individuals in meaningful therapeutic activities across varying levels of ability
- Ability to assess needs and adapt programming to support individualized goals
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with team members
- Ability to maintain professionalism and sound judgment in dynamic or high-stress situations
- Ability to build rapport with individuals served, families, and staff
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain flexibility in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to support a diverse population with cultural sensitivity and respect
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum of 60 college credits and/or Associate’s Degree required; Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field preferred
- Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or eligibility to obtain certification preferred
- Experience working with individuals with ASD and/or IDD preferred
- Experience facilitating therapeutic recreation or group-based programming
- Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications (PMT, First Aid, CPR; training provided)
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Work occurs in residential, educational, community, and recreational settings
- May involve crisis response and physical intervention in accordance with training.
- Perform all requirements of physical management techniques (PMT)
- Regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and active physical engagement required
- Exposure to behaviors requiring de-escalation and therapeutic intervention
A job description is not meant to be all inclusive of every task and/or responsibility