Description

Mercy is seeking a dedicated Recreational Therapist to join our Healthcare & Medical Services team. In this role, you will assess patient needs and design therapeutic recreation programs that support physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. You’ll collaborate with an interdisciplinary care team to implement treatment plans, document progress, and adapt activities for diverse patient populations. Mercy offers a compassionate, inclusive culture, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to patient recovery and quality of life through innovative, patient-centered care.
Conduct comprehensive leisure and functional assessments to identify patient strengths, needs, interests, and treatment goals
Develop and implement individualized recreational therapy treatment plans aligned with interdisciplinary care plans and evidence-based practices
Facilitate group and individual therapeutic interventions (e.g., leisure education, community reintegration, relaxation training, cognitive stimulation, social skills groups)
Adapt activities and environments to accommodate varying physical, cognitive, and psychosocial abilities
Document assessments, goals, progress notes, and discharge summaries accurately and timely in the electronic health record (EHR) system
Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and other team members to coordinate patient care
Educate patients and families on leisure skills, adaptive strategies, and community resources that support ongoing recovery and quality of life
Participate in care conferences, team meetings, and discharge planning to advocate for recreational therapy needs and continuity of care
Monitor patient responses, adjust interventions based on progress and safety, and escalate concerns to the care team as appropriate
Contribute to program development, quality improvement initiatives, and the integration of innovative, evidence-based recreational therapy approaches
Ensure a safe, inclusive, and culturally sensitive therapeutic environment that reflects Mercy’s mission of compassion and respect
Provide orientation and mentorship support to students or new team members as requested
Therapeutic recreation assessment and treatment planning
Knowledge of physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and behavioral health conditions
Group facilitation and 1:1 intervention skills
Activity analysis, adaptation, and grading
Behavior management and de-escalation techniques
Documentation and electronic health record (EHR) proficiency
Interdisciplinary care coordination and communication
Patient and family education
Outcome measurement and progress reporting
Time management and caseload prioritization
Basic research literacy and evidence-based practice
Cultural competence and trauma-informed care
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401k
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or eligibility to obtain CTRS within designated timeframe
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
State licensure or registration as required for Recreational Therapists
Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems