Recreational Therapy Assistant

Class Concept

The Recreational Therapy Assistant is assigned to a state hospital, a developmental center, a neuromedical center or an alcohol and drug abuse treatment center or other state agency and works under the direct supervision of a Recreational Therapist, and/or Recreational Therapy Supervisor. Employees in this class assist the Recreational Therapist and/or the Recreational Therapy Supervisor in the implementation of treatment plans by using interventions that are designed by a licensed recreational therapist or supervisor, and are based on physician orders. Employees implement the clients' treatment plans as directed by the Recreational Therapist or Recreational Therapy Supervisors and the treatment plan. Duties include independently monitoring clients and their progressions within the activities that are prescribed. Employees document client behaviors, reactions, and progression, and reports patient/client information to the Recreational Therapist and treatment team. Employees recommend changes to client regimens and treatment plan based on daily client observations. Employees may lead or supervise Recreational Therapy Aides. Employees may provide orientation and training for new Recreational Therapy Aides. Employees may mentor new Recreational Therapy Assistants.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of human structures, physiology of human structures, mechanics of movement, lifecycle growth and development, psychological functioning, pathology in psychological functioning, cognitive learning and motor learning that contribute to health and human functioning and independence in life activities.
• Working knowledge of recreational therapy, therapeutic activities, and recreation and applicable principles, techniques, methods, modalities/interventions/activities, and their appropriate implementation.
• Knowledge of the application and implementation of assessment and evaluation tools.
• Ability to work with a variety of clients (ages, mental competence, and physical capabilities).
• Ability to observe behavior and to report and document patient/client response and reaction.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
• Ability to assist with the delivery of services in a group setting.

Minimum Education and Experience

Licensed as a Recreational Therapy Assistant as required by the North Carolina Board of Recreational Therapy Licensure.