OPSEU

Job Title: Recreation Therapist
Status: Temporary Part Time
Department: Residential - McKay
Program: Durham Mental Health Services
8 Hour Shifts, days Schedule (Subject to Change)
Location: Lakeridge Health Durham Mental Health Services
Wage Schedule: $36.970 - $43.140 per hour
Posting Reference: 2600000285

Lakeridge Health is more than a hospital. It is a health network that includes five hospitals, a long-term care home, a community-based surgical centre, and more than 30 community sites across the Durham Region. Guided by our vision of One System. Best Health. and supported by a dedicated team of nearly 9,000 staff, physicians, and volunteers, Lakeridge Health is a place where the best people want to start, grow, and finish their careers in health care. We are focused on fostering an environment that’s inclusive, compassionate, innovative, and joyful. This is Lakeridge Health!

This position is open to all qualified OPSEU staff throughout Lakeridge Health commencing 3 February 2026 and closing at 11:59 pm on 10 February 2026.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Recreation Therapist (RT) works collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team within the intensive day treatment program supporting clients' work towards their Mental Health goals.

RT is primarily responsible for assessment, intervention and evaluation related to clients' leisure needs, interests, abilities, community support and recovery. Using a client-centered approach, this position involves collaboration with the client, family, and the interdisciplinary team in the development of therapeutic recreation interventions, which maximize independent leisure functioning and enhance the well-being of the client. The major functions of the RT are directly related to the Therapeutic Recreation Standards of Practice.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Using a collaborative approach and evidence based practice, the RT is responsible for individual and group assessment, goal-setting, and implementation of intervention programs to promote independent functioning within the physical, emotional, mental and social domains.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree/Diploma in Recreation & Leisure Studies & a Post Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation
• Member of Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO)
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support certification
• Minimum 2 years recent, related knowledge, skills and experience
• Demonstrated experience in applying prompt assessment
• Experience working with individuals with Mental Health issues
• Knowledge of psychotropic medications, symptom management and their impact in providing therapeutic recreation interventions
• Proven experience in crisis intervention
• Experience developing and leading workshops and groups,
• Demonstrated computer proficiency in Word, Power Point, Internet/Intranet and various data bases relevant to therapeutic recreation
• Demonstrate skills associated with working independently in the community
• Demonstrated ability to assess, plan and implement a personalized approach to service delivery within the guidelines of the Therapeutic Recreation Service Model in accordance with TRO Standards of Practice

" Demonstrated knowledge of community resources and an ability to liaise with such services

• Highly developed in interpersonal and communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member

• Excellent organizational, critical thinking and problem solving skills

• Demonstrated strong problem solving abilities, effective decision-making skills and ability to lead small and large client groups

• Effective time management and organizational skills and ability to be flexible & adaptable to change

• Valid driver's license and able to provide own transportation

• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to Lakeridge Health's comprehensive safety programs and practices including staff safety, patient safety and environmental safety and participation in regular in-service education sessions;

• Demonstrated commitment to our core values of Inclusion, Compassion, Innovation, Teamwork and Joy; and

• Proven good attendance record with capabilities of maintaining this same standard.

At Lakeridge Health, we value inclusion and diversity. We are committed to fostering a culture that is respectful, inclusive, and accessible. We are committed to employing a workforce that is representative of the diverse community we provide services to and welcome applications from all qualified applicants from all backgrounds.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the recruitment and assessment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodation at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact recruitment@lh.ca .

Unless specifically stated, all job postings at Lakeridge Health are to fill existing vacancies within our organization. Lakeridge Health may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools as part of the recruitment and screening process. A member of our Talent Acquisition team is actively engaged in the Recruitment and Selection process to ensure a fair and thorough assessment of applicants.

Lakeridge Health thanks all those who apply, however, only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

The terms and conditions of employment are in accordance with the Collective Agreement between the Hospital and OPSEU Local 348.

Successful External applicants must provide a satisfactory Criminal Investigation Reference for the vulnerable sector, dated within the past six (6) months.

Lakeridge Health is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all team members and patients. New Lakeridge Health team members will be required to complete a Pre-employment Health Assessment as a condition of employment.