Therapeutic Recreation Intern (unpaid)

Job Description:

Summary

The therapeutic recreation (TR) intern will work closely with the Life Enhancement team to promote the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of our patients. The internship will provide opportunities to develop and lead programs, assess patients and document patient progress, and work on a multi-disciplinary team in a clinical setting. Under the supervision of a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS) the intern will complete 14-16 weeks with a minimum of 560 hours in total (as required by the NCTRC for certification).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assess patient’s capabilities and develop goal-oriented treatment plans to maximize functioning, maintain and improve health, and provide for the general well-being of each patient.
• Document patient progress through timely completion of assessments, bi-annual notes, and other paper work as requested.
• Develop and implement therapeutic programs to meet the physical, cognitive, psychosocial, spiritual, and sensory needs of each patient.
• Work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team to implement treatment plans for patients and communicate them to other staff as needed.
• Utilize computer applications required, including MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), communication applications, applicable streaming programs, remote programs, documentation program, and other technological programs.
• Provide guidance to volunteers and other staff to support programs and transitions
• Effectively communicate with families (or health care proxies) regarding patient engagement, interests, and preferences both verbally and in writing.
• Establish positive relationships within the community at large to provide intergenerational programming and other community-based programming.
• Keep patients informed of engagement opportunities by preparing calendars and any additional alternative resources.

• Increase educational opportunities for departmental, floor, and/or center-wide staff to expand their knowledge about programs, recreational therapy, and/or the benefits that life enhancement/community life provides for patients.
• Assist in orienting and training new staff, students and volunteers through providing training and mentorship as requested.
• Expand knowledge base through successful participation in classes, conferences, workshops, and additional education opportunities both within and outside of the Center.
• Assist Nurse Manager and care team with providing person-centered care through floor projects and meeting any unit-specific needs.
• Support the Life Enhancement team by providing input and ideas to improve systems, processes, and quality of programs.

• Complete internship assignments, projects, and evaluations required by the academic program and supervising CTRS.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in recreational therapy/therapeutic recreation from an accredited institution.
• Eligible to complete an internship for academic credit (required for NCTRC certification).
• Experience and/or interest in working with older adults and individuals with physical or cognitive impairments.
• Must be patient and adaptable with strong interpersonal skills.
• Proficient at utilizing pertinent computer applications required.
• Must have strong written and communication, time management, organizational and leadership skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and utilize a growth mindset.
• Must maintain professional and therapeutic boundaries.
• CPR/First Aid certification (preferred)

Physical Requirements:

• Contact with patients under a wide variety of circumstances, which may include exposure to unpleasant odors, sights, and sounds.
• Push occupied wheelchairs on flat surfaces and up/down ramps up to 50 lbs.
• Gloves and masks worn occasionally.
• Standing, walking, and sitting.
• Transporting and assisting with transporting patients.
• Lifting supplies and equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Some reaching, stooping, squatting, bending, kneeling and crouching.

Remote Type

Salary Range: