Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Adolescents Residential Treatment Facility

Location: Split Site Position - Danville, PA and Lewisburg, PA

Shift: Tuesday and Saturday at Danville Residential; Wednesday and Friday at Lewisburg Residential; Thursday assigned to either location based on program needs.

Hours: 11am -7pm
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $21.00 – $25.00 per hour

Overview

Diversified Treatment Alternative Centers (DTAC) is seeking a dedicated and clinically driven Therapeutic Recreation Specialist to support our residential treatment program for male adolescents ages 8-18.

This role offers the opportunity to use recreation as a therapeutic intervention, helping youth build healthy coping skills, improve social functioning, and achieve long-term success in a structured, trauma-informed environment.

Why Join DTAC

Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of adolescent males
Collaborative, interdisciplinary treatment environment
Use recreation as a clinical tool to support healing and growth
Join a well-established organization committed to quality care and outcomes

Position Summary

The Therapeutic Recreation Specialist works as part of the interdisciplinary treatment team to develop and implement structured, trauma-informed recreational programming. This role is essential in promoting emotional regulation, social skills development, and positive behavioral change.

Key Responsibilities

Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all clients
Conduct functional baseline assessments to identify client strengths and needs
Develop and implement individualized and group recreation treatment plans
Plan and facilitate on-site and off-site recreational activities
Co-facilitate psychoeducational and skills-based groups
Support adherence to clinical models, including DBT-A
Model appropriate coping skills, communication, and emotional regulation
Maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes and incident reports
Collaborate with therapists, leadership, and treatment team members
Transport clients to appointments when required
Maintain professional boundaries and ensure HIPAA compliance
Participate in scheduled shift coverage, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, or a related Human Services field
Active CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist) credential
Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in therapeutic recreation, behavioral health, residential treatment, or a related setting
Strong documentation, organization, and communication skills
Ability to pass required background clearances

Preferred Skills and Experience

Experience working in residential treatment settings
Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles
Familiarity with clinical models such as DBT-A
Experience facilitating therapeutic and psychoeducational groups

Requirements

Commitment to maintaining sight-line supervision standards
Completion of required documentation with high accuracy
Compliance with all training and regulatory requirements
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Benefits

401(k)
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Paid Time Off
Flexible Spending Account
Employee Assistance Program
Referral Program

Work Location

This is an in-person position supporting two residential treatment facilities located in Danville, PA and Lewisburg, PA. Candidates must be able to reliably travel between both locations according to the assigned schedule.

Apply Today

If you are a motivated professional who believes in the power of therapeutic recreation to transform lives, we encourage you to apply and join a team committed to making a measurable difference.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Diversified Treatment Alternative Centers is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining an inclusive workplace for all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable laws.

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site