(TEMPORARY FULL TIME) RECREATION THERAPIST - GERIATRIC Psychiatry UnitJob Category: Clinical Professional (Allied Health)Requisition Number: PERMA003881Posted : October 19, 2026Full-TimeLocationsShowing 1 locationWhitby, ON L1N5S9, CANDescriptionJOB DESCRIPTIONDescriptionOntario 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 requiredKnowledge of current therapeutic recreation practices, theories, methodologiesCurrent TRO membership required and eligible registration with TRO is preferredKnowledgeable of recovery and mental illness including treatment practicesAbility to implement appropriate treatment, leisure education and participation programsSkills in therapeutic recreation assessment and program designExperience 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 agenciesAbility 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.

📌 (Temporary Full-Time) Recreation Therapist - Geriatric Psychiatry Unit (Whitby)
🏢 Ontario Shores Centre for MHS
📍 Whitby