Lead Recreation Therapist
Shepherd Center

Shepherd Center, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a private, not-for-profit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, spine and chronic pain, and other neuromuscular conditions.

Join us in our mission to help people with a temporary or permanent disability, rebuild their lives with hope, independence and dignity, advocating for their full inclusion in all aspects of community life.

At Shepherd Center, you'll discover a diverse and inclusive environment, enlightened leadership, a culture of teamwork, professionalism and mutual respect. If you are seeking career advancement, continuing education opportunities coupled with a welcoming and fun workplace, competitive compensation and employment benefits, visit our careers page to explore current openings.

The Lead Rec Therapist is responsible for evaluating patients (adolescent, adult, geriatric) assigned, determining short-term and long-term goals in conjunction with the patient and other Shepherd Center team members, and developing and implementing a comprehensive treatment program to meet these goals with moderate direct supervision.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Lead Rec Therapist is responsible for planning and implementing rehabilitation programs and events to meet the needs of patients and appropriate community members with disabilities.
• Responsible for the internship program (interviewing, information/documentation completed for start date, mentor for student, orientation manual, schedule and resources for student complete, etc).
• Determines equipment needs in consultation with patient support system and other appropriate team members.
• Provides patient and/or family with resources for use after discharge.
• Facilitates community reintegration outings/camping trips in accordance with policies and procedures for 1:1, group and/or team outings.
• Prepares for and effectively teaches classes and lectures, conveying appropriate information and facilitating participant involvement to patients, family and caregivers.
• Participates in and modifies individual family training according to the needs of patient/family.
• Recognizes and discusses age developmental differences between adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients, communicates effectively with all patients, and relates this to all aspects of treatment.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in Therapeutic Recreation or related specialty field.

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist by NCTRC
• CPR certification required (provided by SC)

• Minimum of three (3) years' experience working in ABI or SCI specific to the lead ABI or lead SCI recreation Therapy position.
• The Lead Internship position must have three years' experience and have had at least one TR intern at Shepherd to apply for the education lead TR Therapist position.

• Knowledge of therapeutic recreation and/or related specialty field as it relates to spinal cord injury and brain injury preferred.
• Good verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail is necessary.

• N/A

• N/A

• Some potential for exposure to blood and body fluids.