JOB TITLE: THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITIES AIDE

JOB CODE: 31360

DEFINITION: This is nonprofessional work providing therapeutic or recreational care to individuals requiring assistance with daily activities.

An employee in this job assists professional staff by organizing and implementing physical therapy, occupational therapy, vocational adjustment, or recreational programs. Work involves conducting planned activity sessions and providing instruction and assistance to participants to improve their personal, social, and physical functioning. Work includes observing, reviewing, and reporting participant progress to ensure they are achieving their treatment goals, and providing guidance to individuals assigned to work with participants during activities. Work is performed with considerable independence in accordance with established plans and procedures, and is reviewed by a professional or administrative supervisor through observation, reports, and conferences.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Assists professional staff in planning, organizing, and conducting activities that enhance or retain participants’ functionality in such areas as socialization, self-help, and self-esteem.

• Observes participant behavior and provides feedback on progress, strengths, and needs.

• Provides guidance to Aide Trainees, federal work study students, and volunteers who are assisting participants during activities.

• Arranges for participants to be escorted safely to and from activity areas.

• Maintains equipment and materials requesting repairs or supplies when needed.

• Participates in training designed for staff conducting therapeutic activities and applies what was learned to meet individual needs and treatment goals.

• Ensures activity areas are free of hazards and provides instruction to participants and volunteers regarding safety practices and precautions when using supplies and equipment.

• Aids vocational activity participants in achieving maximum benefits from work training activities.

• Attends and participates in staff and program planning meetings to provide information regarding activities, participant needs, and progress.

• Transports participants to and from activities using motor vehicles.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of individual and group behavior.

• Knowledge of the daily living assistance needs of individuals with mental or physical limitations.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• Six months of experience as an Aide Trainee (commonwealth title);

or

• Six months of work experience providing care to individuals requiring assistance with daily activities;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Certain positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license.