Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

Company Description Brightwell Behavioral Health provides specialized, short-term inpatient care for senior adults experiencing conditions such as anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia, behavioral disturbances, and depression. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes a psychiatrist, medical doctor, registered nurses, and rehabilitation therapists. Treatment plans are individualized and may include group, individual, and family therapy, daily therapeutic activities, and medication evaluation. The organization partners closely with patients and their families to set goals, monitor progress, and plan for discharge.

Role Description The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) is a full-time, on-site role based in Garden City, MI. This team member plans, implements, and evaluates therapeutic recreation interventions that support the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social needs of senior inpatients. Daily responsibilities include assessing patients’ recreation and leisure interests, developing individualized and group activity plans, documenting patient participation and progress, and collaborating with the multidisciplinary team on treatment goals. The CTRS facilitates group and one-on-one therapeutic recreation sessions, including creative, social, and light physical activities, while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated skills in Therapeutic Recreation and Recreation program planning, with the ability to design and lead goal-oriented activities for adults.
• Experience or interest in structured leisure activities that promote social engagement, mobility, and emotional well-being.
• Strong Communication abilities, including clear documentation, effective collaboration with interdisciplinary team members, and professional interaction with patients and families.
• Skills sufficient to lead groups, provide direction during activities, and support activity assistants or volunteers when applicable.
• Current CTRS certification (or eligibility) and compliance with applicable state and national standards.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, or a related field strongly preferred.
• Experience in inpatient behavioral health, geriatric psychiatry, or a similar clinical setting is beneficial.
• Ability to maintain patient safety, manage behavioral challenges calmly, and uphold trauma-informed, person-centered care practices.