Other Opportunities: Recreational Therapist

VALUES AND COMMITMENT

At Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH), our core values of Integrity, Quality, Respect, Compassion and Teamwork are at the centre of who we are and what we do. We remain committed to sustaining an experienced workforce that reflects Northumberland Hills Hospital’s dedication to recognising everyone’s contributions and respecting everyone’s dignity, unique experience, and potential.

EQUITY AND ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Northumberland Hills Hospital remains respectful of all protected rights, in line with the grounds laid out by the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we welcome applications from all qualified applicants and interests from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous People of North America, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

We strive to make our entire hiring process as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants if needed. For any hiring related accommodation needs and/or requests please email us via careers@nhh.ca.

LOCATION

Located approximately 100 kilometres east of Toronto, NHH is a vibrant community hospital delivering a broad range of acute, post-acute, outpatient and diagnostic services. Directly serving a growing population of more than 60,000 residents spread across a mix of urban and rural settings, NHH directly employs approximately 750 people and relies on the additional support provided by a highly engaged and supportive network of physicians, midwives and volunteers.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Recreational Therapist will be responsible for the development, coordination, and implementation of recreational therapy and leisure counseling for patients admitted to NHH. The Recreational Therapist will have the ability to: assess, plan, organize, and supervise a departmental recreational therapy program; assist patients in establishing and attaining realistic treatment goals, that align with the Home First Philosophy; an active member of the TRAC team to support discharge planning and optimization; lead individual and group sessions; assess and evaluate patient treatment progress or regression; develop effective relationships with the interprofessional team, patients with varying degrees of cognitive abilities, and patient’s families; select equipment and supplies and oversee purchases and use; identify and utilize appropriate community resources; maintain confidentiality; and foster trust and cooperation. In addition, the Recreation Therapist is responsible for leading and supporting the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP). The Recreational Therapist will also facilitate Gentle Persuasion Approach Education training and support to all new hires.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

• Degree from a recognized university program of Leisure Studies/Therapeutic Recreation
• Member in good standing with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO)
• Understanding of recreation therapy methodologies, principles, and practice
• Experience in Rehabilitation, Restorative Care, or Complex Continuing Care
• Recent experience in volunteer programs and/or working with volunteers
• Expertise and experience in Gerontology
• Experience and knowledge of the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP)  
• 3 years of recent clinical experience in recreation and leisure counseling
• IGPA certified coach certificate (preferred)
• Knowledge of the Home First Philosophy
• Able to work in an active, rapidly changing environment with multiple demands
• Ability to make decisions and prioritize effectively
• Demonstrates understanding of, compliance with, and commitment to patient safety responsibilities and corresponding hospital plans, policies and procedures, to ensure a healthy and safe work environment
• Must be available to work 7 days a week 

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

Successful applicants are required provide a satisfactory vulnerable sector criminal reference check, that was complete less than one year from the date of hire. This requirement must be met within the first sixty (60) days of employment.

Additionally, to the above, successful applicants are also required to complete the Health Care Worker Health review process which includes providing an up-to-date immunization record to ensure compliance with the Ontario Hospital Association Communicable Diseases Surveillance Protocols within the first thirty (30) days of employment. Northumberland Hills Hospital operates a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for all staff.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, Northumberland Hills Hospital may choose to conduct parts/all the hiring process virtually. The successful incumbent should expect the role to be in person however a hybrid working arrangement may also be considered subject to operational needs. Furthermore, we are a scent-free environment.  When attending the hospital kindly refrain from wearing strongly scented fragrances.

While we thank all those that express interest in this exciting position; kindly note that due to high volumes of interests, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.