Therapeutic Rec Counselor

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