Director of Activities - Geriatric Psychiatry Unit

We truly value our employees and are committed to their success! We offer long-term employment opportunities with job stability, as well as support and encouragement for career growth and advancement. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, Paid Time Off, 9 Paid Holidays, a 403(b) Retirement Plan with company matching, and company-paid Life Insurance. Join our team and experience a workplace culture that fosters teamwork, growth, and support!

Los Angeles Jewish Health has been a trusted provider of senior healthcare for over 100 years, offering a wide range of services that prioritize excellence and Jewish values. We serve more than 4,000 seniors across our San Fernando Valley campuses, delivering personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, from independent living to specialized healthcare programs.

The Auerbach Geriatric Psychiatry Unit at LAJH is a leading facility for short-term psychiatric care, offering compassionate, specialized treatment tailored to the unique needs of seniors through a nationally-acclaimed model of high-quality care.

The responsibilities of the Director of Activities include, but are not limited to: 

Responsibilities: 

• Conduct initial assessments and quarterly reassessments of assigned patients to evaluate functional and social abilities, set realistic recreation therapy goals, and identify major interests.
• Develop and implement individualized therapeutic Plans of Care, updating goals as needed and presenting them to the Interdisciplinary Team.
• Supervise recreation therapy activities delivered by Certified Nursing Assistants in the AGPU, ensuring treatment progress is monitored.
• Demonstrate proficiency in setting up and applying all recreation therapy modalities, including exercise.
• Plan, develop, and schedule therapeutic programs and recreational activities for patients, including those with dementia or sensory deficits.
• Plan and provide group and individual activities, greeting patients upon arrival and setting a positive tone for each day.
• Incorporate volunteers, intergenerational activities, and contracted services for entertainment, art, movement, and music therapy.
• Access community resources for outings and monitor patient safety during activities, preparing for emergencies and promoting good body mechanics.
• Provide recreational education to patients and families, and share information on patient interests with the Interdisciplinary Team.
• Participate in Interdisciplinary Team meetings, keeping the team informed of any changes in patients' conditions.
• Complete documentation in the medical record accurately and on time.
• Maintain competency in line with departmental, organizational, and professional standards.
• Understand and contribute to meeting budget targets while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Comply with safety policies and procedures, reporting any unsafe conditions to the Center Manager and ensuring a safe environment for all.
• Continuously seek improvements in service delivery and communication with patients.
• Demonstrate respect for patient rights, including dignity, self-determination, access to care, confidentiality, and independence.
• Adhere to all AGPU policies and procedures and deliver age-specific care as required.

Experience and Skills:

Degree and Diplomas: Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Therapy or a related field, such as Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, or Music Therapy.

Certificates and Licenses:

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification is required.
• Certification in Art Therapy or Music Therapy, or licensure as an Occupational Therapist, is also acceptable.
• Verification of current CPR (BLS) training.
• Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Completion of TB screening and health examination by a hospital-designated nurse practitioner or physician is required for employment.
• MAB (Management of Assaultive Behavior) De-escalation Training and Certification must be obtained within 3 months of hire.

Experience: At least two years of experience providing and coordinating services in social or recreational programs for individuals with mental health conditions within the past five years. Preferred: Full-time experience in a patient activities program within an acute psychiatric setting, particularly serving a geriatric population, within the last three years.

Join Los Angeles Jewish Health and make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors in our community. Become part of our compassionate team, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Apply today and start making a difference!

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