Job Title: Recreation Therapists
Salary (Annually): $43,140.00 - $64,560.00
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Nashville, TN
Department: Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Position Overview:
The Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services at Middle Tennessee Mental Health Institute (MTMHI) in Davidson County is seeking a qualified Recreation Therapist 2. In this role, you will provide professional recreation therapy services, guiding individuals through therapeutic recreational programs aimed at supporting psychosocial development, independent living skills, and physical well-being.

This on-site position requires a background check, including a criminal history disclosure, and adherence to health and safety standards in line with state facility regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient-Centered Therapy:
• Develop and implement therapeutic recreation plans tailored to individual needs, using assessments, observations, and interdisciplinary team feedback.
• Facilitate activities like social skills training, anger management, leisure education, and creative expression to support client goals.
• Behavioral Interventions:
• Create and manage behavior change plans to encourage independent living skills.
• Intervene and provide behavioral education to maintain positive conduct standards.
• Health & Safety Compliance:
• Ensure all recreational therapy activities adhere to departmental policies, federal and state laws, and facility guidelines.
• Execute facility emergency response protocols to maintain client and staff safety.
• Team Collaboration & Development:
• Work closely with other healthcare staff to ensure quality care.
• Train and guide direct care staff, paraprofessionals, and interns in therapeutic techniques.
• Data Analysis & Documentation:
• Track client progress toward goals, documenting assessments, interventions, and discharge plans to support ongoing therapeutic needs.
• Maintain accurate records, monitor treatment efficacy, and evaluate client feedback to improve service quality.
• Creative & Strategic Planning:
• Employ creative solutions and tailored activities to meet the diverse needs of clients.
• Organize, prioritize, and complete work within designated timeframes to support efficient facility operations.

Qualifications:

• Education and Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in rehabilitation services, recreation, psychology, sociology, recreation therapy, education, allied health, or mental health/human services.
• At least one year of full-time experience in recreation therapy or related professional experience in therapy, education, or recreation.
• Education Substitution:
• Graduate coursework in relevant fields may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience Substitution:
• Full-time work in recreation, teaching, or assisting disabled individuals may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of four years.
• Necessary Special Qualifications:
• Criminal history disclosure and agreement to release records.
• Completion of a fingerprint sample and compliance with the Department of Health’s vulnerable persons registry review.

Why Join MTMHI?
Be a part of a dedicated team providing meaningful support to clients in mental health recovery. This role allows for impactful client interactions, professional development, and a rewarding career in therapeutic recreation within the State of Tennessee's healthcare system.

Apply today to make a difference in the lives of those in need of mental health services.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $43,140.00 - $64,560.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Please provide an alternate email to be contacted at if not you will be contacted via your Indeed email to apply via State of TN website.

Work Location: In person