Recreation Therapist

Summary This position is for Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center or Clinical Based Outpatient Clinic. The Recreation Therapist provides professional therapeutic services using evidence-based recreational modalities to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of Veterans. These services aim to restore, maintain, or improve functioning; support rehabilitation; and alleviate symptoms related to chronic or terminal conditions. Responsibilities The therapist integrates recreation therapy into the overall health care plan, based on medical prescriptions, referrals, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Core Responsibilities are to conduct comprehensive assessments of HUD-VASH Veterans using interviews, inventories, standardized tests, and clinical observations to evaluate interests, aptitudes, functional abilities, and therapeutic needs; develop individualized treatment plans informed by assessment data, medical records, and provider orders; implement therapeutic interventions targeting goals such as: sensory integration, ambulation and mobility, emotional regulation and stress reduction, community reintegration, reality orientation, muscular and cognitive functioning, psychological stabilization, enhancement of self-esteem and achievement; monitor and evaluate treatment outcomes, modifying plans as needed based on patient response and progress; serve as a key member of interdisciplinary treatment teams, contributing recreation therapy expertise to holistic care planning; provide both primary and adjunctive therapy services, adapting modalities to meet individual and group needs with Veterans in the hospital and in a community based setting; and maintain documentation in accordance with VA standards and participate in program development and evaluation. Duties include, but are not limited to: Recreation Therapists may also facilitate meaningful recreational activities that complement formal therapy services. These activities support therapeutic goals and enhance quality of life. Certification in Recreation Therapy is a qualifying requirement, ensuring the therapist possesses the necessary professional competencies. Patient-Centered Care The Recreation Therapist demonstrates respect for all Veterans, caregivers, and families by exhibiting sensitivity to individual needs, values, backgrounds, and tolerances. The therapist maintains professional boundaries, communicates confidence in the patient's abilities, and fosters therapeutic engagement and progress through empathy, objectivity, and insight. Assessment and Treatment Planning As a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team, the therapist conducts comprehensive assessments using interviews, standardized instruments, and clinical observations. These assessments identify Veterans' interests, aptitudes, barriers, and therapeutic needs. Based on findings and clinical data, the therapist develops individualized treatment plans with measurable goals aimed at restoring function, promoting independence, and reducing the impact of illness or disability. Recreation therapy is integrated into the total care plan in coordination with the treatment team, the Veteran, and their family or caregiver. Clinical Interventions The therapist designs and delivers effective clinical interventions consistent with professional scope of practice, standards of care, and ethical guidelines. This includes providing adapted equipment, materials, and instruction to support therapeutic engagement. The therapist applies sound judgment in selecting appropriate modalities and treatment intervals, and may employ creative or nontraditional approaches for complex cases. Education on leisure lifestyle, coping skills, and community resources is also provided. Evaluation and Documentation Treatment outcomes are documented in the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS). The therapist regularly reviews patient progress and adjusts treatment plans and strategies accordingly. Patient encounters and event capture data are entered routinely and used to evaluate service effectiveness. Professional Development Therapists are expected to pursue ongoing professional growth through in-service training, teleconferences, academic coursework, and participation in professional organizations. Departmental and Facility Programming The therapist participates in hospital-wide and departmental programming, including evening and weekend activities. Responsibilities include maintaining equipment and resources, procuring supplies, and supporting both unit-specific and department-wide needs. All purchasing activities are conducted in accordance with applicable education, training, and regulatory requirements. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm. Work Schedule is subject to change based on agency need. Telework: Not available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 60626F. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized. Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized. Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the

Created: 2026-02-02