Job Summary:

The Activities Technician II implements a variety of evidence-based therapeutic activities with a focus upon the development and maintenance of adaptive skills that will improve or maintain the patient’s physical, social and emotional well-being.  This individual is responsible for choosing developmentally and clinically appropriate tasks and activities for patients using a variety of modalities such as art, music, games, didactic instruction and physical activities. This individual will assist in assigned direct patient care as appropriate to the patient’s physical and developmental age, maintaining a primary focus on a safe and therapeutic environment.

1. Key Responsibilities / Essential Functions

   1. Plans and leads/co-leads the daily recreation-based therapeutic activities curriculum with patients for both and large and small groups under the direction and supervision of the Clinical Services Manager. The activities chosen and implemented will support the patients in meeting their goals in regard to their psychiatric, emotional and social needs.
   2. Leads psychoeducational activity groups to assist with managing their specific challenges. These groups will assist with building coping skills and improving social relationships.
   3. Conducts Comprehensive Activities Assessments on new admissions and establishes patient specific therapeutic activities treatment goals and interventions on the interdisciplinary plan of care. 
   4. Documents observations, interactions, care and treatment provided in clear and concise manner and in accordance with hospital guidelines. 
   5. Evaluates each patient’s progress and the effectiveness of recreational/leisure therapy interventions.
   6. Encourages patient participation in therapeutic/recreational activity programming.
   7. Adheres to policies and procedure and demonstrates practices that ensure a safe environment for patients, visitors, co-workers and self.
   8. Motivates patients to participate in activities of daily living and unit program within their physical and mental capabilities.
   9.  Conducts and completes personal and belonging search following guidelines of procedure with accurate documentation, labeling of belongings, and indicated distribution and storage.
   10. Accurately follows directions of licensed personnel.
   11. CPR certification.
   12. MOAB/CPI certification.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Experience Required:

Education: 

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field from an accredited college/university.

Skills and Abilities:  1)Ability to communicate effectively with others, 2)Knowledge of psychiatric illnesses as well as the impact said illnesses have on activities of daily functioning, leisure and socialization 3)Knowledge of effective and appropriate recreational and therapeutic activities for patients to engage in while hospitalized for psychiatric illnesses. 

Experience:

One year experience preferred working with individuals in a mental health setting.