Activity Therapist I (#MDCC01)

Activity Therapist II (#MDCC02)
$40,446.00 Yearly Min / $50,558.00 Yearly Mid / $60,670.00 Yearly Max

Activity Therapist I (#UDCC01)
$38,749.00 Yearly Min / $44,651.00 Yearly Mid / $53,581.00 Yearly Max

This class series uses two levels in the Health and Human Services occupational group, Health Care Support Services occupational series and describes activity therapy work which includes planning and implementing recreational and leisure time activity programs for persons with mental, developmental and/or physical disabilities or disorders.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Plans and conducts a therapeutic program of individual, group, social or recreational activities such as games, dances, movies and field trips. 
   
• Conducts small group and individualized activities for individuals unable to participate in large groups.
   
• Conducts activity assessments to determine the needs, interests, capabilities and deficiencies of each individual as they relate to participation in activities and community re-entry.
   
• Assists in the orientation and training of non-professional staff who conduct therapeutic activities; assists staff in developing skills in working with individuals.
   
• Charts an individual's attendance in groups, response to activities and other pertinent observations.
   
• Provides coverage for planning activities in absence of regularly assigned staff.
   
• Maintains records and prepares reports.  

Activity Therapist I

This is the first level of work in the series.

• Reports to an administrative superior.
• Performs the full range of Essential Functions.
• May meet with physicians and other treatment team members to assist in the development of treatment goals and objectives, discuss individual progress and recommend changes in activity programs.
• May requisition supplies and equipment needed for activities and disburse to activity personnel.
• May make presentations to colleges, community groups or organizations regarding recreational programs.
• Contacts include staff from other disciplines concerning problems with individuals and their participation of activities.

Activity Therapist II

This is the second level responsible for supervising and participating in therapeutic recreational programs.

• Reports to an administrative superior.
• Supervision is exercised over at least two or more merit full time positions per the merit rules. The elements of supervision include planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, recommending hire/fire and discipline.
• Secures information concerning an individual's history and treatment plan; confers with the treatment team in developing activity therapy programs to meet the needs of individuals.
• Reviews individual charts to ensure that documentation of individual participation and progress in group activities is maintained for compliance with accreditation and certification standards.
• Coordinates program schedules and work assignments to ensure staff coverage for all activities and special events.
• Participates in departmental program planning and goal setting and assists other recreational, occupational and creative arts therapists in the coordination of recreational activities and other therapeutic activities.
• Prepares purchase orders and equipment requests based on planned activities and funding availability.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of programs and makes recommendations to superior.
• May make presentations to colleges, community groups or organizations regarding recreational programs.

The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSA's listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the requirements of every position in the class.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices used in activity or recreational therapy
• Knowledge of the equipment used in activity or recreational therapy.
• Skill in conducting group and individual activities.
• Skill in applying laws, rules and regulations.
• Skill in maintaining records and preparing reports
• Knowledge of planning specific therapeutic activities in accordance with indicated needs as directed treatment teams.
• Ability to train support staff.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and public and private groups and individuals.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Activity Therapist II requires:

• Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.
• Skill in planning, scheduling and coordinating therapeutic activity programs.
• Skill in planning, directing, reviewing and evaluating the work of activity therapy personnel engaged in implementing social or recreational programs.
• Skill in interpreting laws, rules and regulations.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Activity Therapist I
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Six months experience in planning, organizing and leading group activities.
2. Six months experience in working with persons with disabilities.
3. Six months experience in applying laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
4. Six months experience in narrative report writing.