Recreation Therapist

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification / licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

Basic Requirements : United States Citizenship : Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.

English Language Proficiency : Must be proficient in spoken and written English, as required by 38 U.S.C. 7403(f). Education : A bachelor's degree or higher, from an accredited college or university, with a major in therapeutic recreation or recreation / leisure, with an option and / or emphasis in therapeutic recreation.

The degree must be approved by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC); OR A bachelor's degree or higher in any field from an accredited college or university and must be a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS).

The degree must be approved by the NCTRC. If hired under this education, the certification cannot be waived May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Grade Determination for GS-11 : Experience : At least one year of creditable experience at the next lower grade level (GS-09) Demonstrate Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) : Ability to adapt assessment tools and treatment interventions to address the complexity of the diagnosis or disabilities and demonstrate the clinical reasoning necessary to identify the need for further in-depth specific assessment of function and utilization of unconventional methods and techniques.

Knowledge to independently interpret provider referrals and consults; and apply all health and safety regulations to minimize and mitigate risks in the provision of patient care and the environment of care.

Skill in effectively communicating and educating, in a clear and concise manner, with patients, families, caregivers, and other health care professionals to facilitate the interdisciplinary treatment process.

Skill in independently utilizing appropriate screening and evaluation techniques required to appropriately provide direct patient care in areas such as, but not limited to recommendations for recreation therapy assistive devices, including fit and function.

Skill in independently applying evidence-based and best practice therapeutic techniques and interventions. Knowledge of the principles and techniques in recreation therapy assessment and the treatment of recreation, leisure, and biopsychosocial functional deficits.

References : VA Handbook 5005 / 111, Part II, Appendix G60; Recreation and Creative Arts Therapist Qualification Standards The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11.

Physical Requirements : Work includes regular and recurring physical exertion in standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, gripping, and walking.

Moderate to heavy lifting is required to position patients and assisting in ambulation. Sitting is required in meetings and for conducting administrative work.

Work may require physical stamina, above average dexterity, and good visual and auditory acuity.