At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and implement engaging recreation programs for older adults with mental health challenges.
- Company: Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, a leader in mental health care.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a supportive environment, and make a difference in patients' lives.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic setting with potential for career growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help geriatric patients thrive through innovative recreation therapy.
- Qualifications: Degree in Therapeutic Recreation and 2 years of related experience required.
The predicted salary is between 47250 - 57750 $ per year.
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences is seeking a Recreation Therapist. As a Recreation Therapist, you will provide specialized care to patients with complex mental illnesses by using a recovery focused model of care, built upon compassion, inspiration and hope. The Recreation Therapist will assess, develop, implement and evaluate individualized and group therapeutic recreation programs as well as providing functional and strength based social skill programs, which support and encourage the treatment, rehabilitation and recovery programming for a geriatric population. The Therapeutic Recreationist is knowledgeable of the older adult population and contributes to the patient’s Plan of Care working as an integral part of the interdisciplinary team.
The assignment is on the Geriatric Psychiatry Unit, within the Geriatric and Neuropsychiatry Program. This unit will provide specialized services for older adults with complex and treatment resistant mental illness. This unit will provide assessment, stabilization, treatment and management of dementia-related behaviours with the goal of community reintegration. The goal of treatment will be to stabilize patients so that they can successfully transition to long-term care or the referring organization.
Please Note: Although the posted vacancy is for the Geriatric Psychiatry Unit, Recreation Therapists must have the ability to work in any area of the Ontario Shores as patient needs dictate.
Requirements:
- Degree or diploma in Therapeutic Recreation and 2 years related experience is required
- Knowledge of current therapeutic recreation practices, theories, methodologies
- Current TRO membership required and eligible registration with TRO is preferred
- Knowledgeable of recovery and mental illness including treatment practices
- Ability to implement appropriate treatment, leisure education and participation programs
- Skills in therapeutic recreation assessment and program design
- Experience in a mental health setting or older adult population is required (preference given to individual with DD knowledge/experience)
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, computer skills, liaise with community agencies
- Ability to maintain regular attendance and perform physical demands of the position.
- Applicants are required to have a valid driver’s license and CPR Level HCP (Health Care Provider) certification.
Job Posting Closing: November 2nd 2026. Please note any job applications after this closing date will not be considered.
Recreation Therapist – Geriatric Psychiatry Unit in Whitby employer: Ontario Shores Centre for MHS
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences is an exceptional employer that prioritizes the well-being and professional growth of its staff. Located in Whitby, ON, the organization fosters a collaborative work culture where Child and Youth Counsellors can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of adolescents facing eating disorders. With a commitment to ongoing training and support, employees are empowered to develop their skills in a safe and stimulating environment, ensuring both personal and professional fulfillment.
Contact Details:
Ontario Shores Centre for MHS Recruitment Team
