Recreation Therapist I

The successful applicant may have the option to work from either our Ponoka, CCMHBI office or our Red Deer, Centre 5010 office. The Virtual Opioid Dependency Program is a virtual program that supports individuals in opioid agonist therapy. Reporting to the Manager (VODP), this position will be responsible for developing, implementing and delivering programs that meets the goals and objectives of the program. As the Wellness Coach, you will support and motivate our clients to achieve a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. You will ensure that the level of therapeutic recreation practice is evidence based, patient and family centered, and in accordance with policies, procedures and standards of practice. Through virtual platforms, you will complete assessments, recovery plans, and support them in engaging in recreation and leisure activities. Key components of your role will be to develop and facilitate virtual groups and build collaborative relationships with community services providers and establish strong partnerships. As the successful candidate you will be expected to demonstrate; time management and prioritization skills; be self-directed and show initiative; strong interpersonal and communication skills; collaboration with the inter-disciplinary treatment team; problem solving; decision making, critical thinking and conflict resolution skills; patient advocacy using a person-centered approach; and foster positive relationships within a team environment. The incumbent will also remain current and up to date on addictions treatment theory and principles.

As a Recreation Therapist I, you will be working collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team, providing comprehensive services for patients (clients, residents) within your assigned program or service area. You will ensure the level of therapeutic recreation practice is evidence based, patient-and family-centred, and in accordance with policies, procedures and standards of practice. You will complete assessment, treatment, education and management of clients¿ treatment progress and provide clinical support and consultation. You will collaborate and communicate with the health care team and participate in patient rounds, family conferences and meetings as related to the client and family.

Completion of bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation and Leisure Studies. Active or eligible registration with Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA).

Related experience with groups with Addiction and Mental Health clients. Working knowledge of Trauma Informed Care and Harm Reduction Principles. Working knowledge of Motivational Interviewing and/or Solution Focused Interventions. Suicide Intervention. 1 - 2 years’ experience with individuals with Mental Health and Addictions issues. Accurate keyboarding skills of 40-50 wpm and proficient in MS Office Suite (outlook, excel), skype, ASIST, etc. Knowledge of community and provincial addiction services resources. This position has been identified and is anticipated to transition to Recovery Alberta effective September 1, 2024. By applying on this posting, if you are the successful candidate, you will transition to Recovery Alberta. In accordance with the transition letter of understanding with UNA, current employees under the UNA Collective Agreement who accept an employment offer, issued after July 1, 2024, will not have any rights under Article 15: Layoff and Recall.

Experience facilitating virtual group and individual programming (ZOOM). Experience using connect care, particularly to document group sessions. Knowledge and understanding of OAT and OUD.