What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreational Therapist - Activities position at Wayne Halfway House, Inc.?
Location: Wayne Halfway House, Inc. / Aspen Youth Academy
Employment Type: Full-Time
Shift: Varies (including evenings, weekends, and holidays)
Position Summary: The Therapeutic Activities Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and facilitating structured therapeutic, recreational, and life-skills activities while supporting behavioral stability and crisis intervention for residents in a residential treatment setting. This role ensures daily schedules and program activities are followed and helps maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment. The Therapeutic Activities Coordinator may function as a Youth Services Officer (YSO) as needed to maintain required staffing ratios.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, organize, and facilitate therapeutic, recreational, educational, and life-skills activities.
- Develop age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate programming.
- Encourage resident participation while maintaining structure and expectations.
- Lead small group activities and assist with larger group programming.
- Adapt activities to meet individual and group needs.
- Support daily schedules and structured programming.
- Provide crisis support and assist with de-escalation.
- Observe resident behavior and communicate concerns to supervisory or clinical staff.
- Establish positive rapport and mentor residents.
- Attend required trainings and meetings.
- Participate in the BMS program as required.
- Follow all policies, procedures, and licensure requirements.
- Demonstrate cultural competence and support diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Qualifications:
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- No felony convictions (background check required).
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Experience in residential care, behavioral health, youth services, or recreation preferred.
- Degree in a related field preferred but not required.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to transport youth as needed.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations.
Skills & Abilities:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent organization and time-management skills.
- Ability to creatively plan and lead activities.
- Ability to adapt to program needs.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Waverly, TN 37185 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person