Recreation Therapy Aide, DC

Recreation Therapy Aide

The Recreation Therapy Aide supports the Recreation Therapist in implementing individualized recreational treatment and intervention plans. This includes the use of adaptive activities, assistive devices, and technology under the supervision of a Recreation Therapist. This role primarily involves working with pediatric patients in the hospital to provide individual and group recreational activities after therapy hours. Additional responsibilities include assisting with the MedStar NRH Adaptive Sports & Fitness Program in the community, organizing and cleaning the playroom, and ordering supplies.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Support and promote departmental goals, program standards, safety practices, and regulatory compliance within the Recreation Therapy department.
• Assist in delivering therapeutic recreation services under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or Licensed Therapist.
• Facilitate and assist with individual and group recreation therapy sessions, community outings, and leisure-based interventions.
• Complete non-clinical responsibilities such as organizing activity spaces, preparing treatment materials, and coordinating recreational resources.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with patients, families, staff, and interdisciplinary team members; report observations, concerns, or changes in patient status to the supervising therapist.
• Safely operate and assist patients with adaptive recreation equipment, mobility devices, activity supplies, wheelchairs, lifts, and basic office tools.
• Accurately document participation, responses to activities, attendance, and other relevant patient data according to departmental standards.
• Maintain activity rooms, supply areas, and communal spaces in a clean, safe, organized, and infection-controlled condition.
• Demonstrate effective time management and meet productivity expectations and is timely, punctual, and prepared for work assignment and meetings.
• Prepare, set up, and clean up materials, equipment, and environments for therapeutic recreation groups and interventions.
• Engage in ongoing education, training, and skill development relevant to recreation therapy and patient support.
• Contribute to departmental service improvement, patient satisfaction initiatives, and operational efficiency.
• Maintain an accurate daily work schedule and communicate changes or needs to supervising staff promptly.
• Perform additional recreation therapy duties as requested to support patients, staff, and program operations.

Minimal Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required

Experience

• Less than 1 year. Minimum of 3 months of experience with patient care preferred

Licenses and Certifications

• American Heart Association Heart Saver Card required

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Cultural competence and empathy when interacting with diverse patient populations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with patients, caregivers, and interdisciplinary team members.

This position has a hiring range of

USD $18.00 - USD $29.74 /Hr.