Recreational Therapist - Coalinga, CA

Position: Recreational Therapist
Location: Correctional Facility in Coalinga, California
Pay Rate: $61.00 to $63.00 per hour
Schedule: Full-time, 6 to 9-month contract (eligible for extension)

Requirements

• At least 12 months of continuous direct patient care experience within the last 3 years in a public or private healthcare setting
• Up-to-date clinical competencies
• Valid government-issued photo ID (Drivers License or Passport)
• Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association
• National or California Recreational Therapist certification

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Weekly direct deposit
• 40 hours of paid sick leave
• Contract extension bonus
• All pre-employment screening costs covered, including physical, drug testing, mask fit, and background check
• Strong potential to convert to a permanent state role with full benefits, if available

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate patient condition updates to the Director of Recreational Therapy and interdisciplinary team
• Share relevant observations regarding treatment outcomes and therapeutic goals
• Conduct assessments in psychosocial, leisure, and recreational skills
• Ensure timely and accurate documentation aligned with the patients care plan
• Educate patients in stress management and healthy coping mechanisms
• Apply advanced therapeutic methods for psychiatric, trauma-affected, and substance use populations
• Lead group therapy sessions with a solid foundation in group dynamics and process-based interventions