Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health

Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education: (a) A bachelor's degree or higher, from an accredited college or university, with a major in therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure, with an option and/or emphasis in therapeutic recreation. The degree must be approved by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC); OR, (b) A bachelor's degree or higher in any field from an accredited college or university and must be a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS). The degree must be approved by the NCTRC. If hired under this education, the certification cannot be waived. Certification: Applicants must be certified in recreation therapy as a CTRS by the NCTRC. If hired under paragraph 3b(1)(b), certification cannot be waived. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: Recreation Therapist,GS-11 Experience. At least one year of creditable experience at the next lower grade level. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: i. Ability to adapt assessment tools and treatment interventions to address the complexity of the diagnosis or disabilities and demonstrate the clinical reasoning necessary to identify the need for further in-depth specific assessment of function and utilization of unconventional methods and techniques. ii. Knowledge to independently interpret provider referrals and consults; and apply all health and safety regulations to minimize and mitigate risks in the provision of patient care and the environment of care. iii. Skill in effectively communicating and educating, in a clear and concise manner, with patients, families, caregivers, and other health care professionals to facilitate the interdisciplinary treatment process. iv. Skill in independently utilizing appropriate screening and evaluation techniques required to appropriately provide direct patient care in areas such as, but not limited to recommendations for recreation therapy assistive devices, including fit and function. v. Skill in independently applying evidence-based and best practice therapeutic techniques and interventions.vi. Knowledge of the principles and techniques in recreation therapy assessment and the treatment of recreation, leisure, and biopsychosocial functional deficits. Preferred Experience: One year of experience providing therapeutic recreation services to adults in mental health inpatient and/or residential settings. Driver's License: The incumbent must have a current, valid driver's license. References: VA Handbook 5005/111, Part II, Appendix G60, Recreation and Creative Arts Therapist Qualification Standard, GS-0638, Veterans Health Administration. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. Physical Requirements: The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion such as standing or walking for prolonged periods of time; frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and stretching to set up and take apart equipment and apparatus; lifting and repositioning patients; and pushing or pulling heavy objects. The work may require specific physical characteristics and abilities such as above-average dexterity to perform intricate therapy procedures. The Tucson VA Medical Center is recruiting for a Recreation Therapist assigned to Mental Health Service, specifically serving Veterans in the Inpatient and Residential Mental Health programs. The therapist provides treatment interventions incorporating the four-step process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient treatment services.

Position Details

• Job Title: Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health
• Company / Organisation: Veterans Health Administration
• Location: Tucson, Arizona
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Field / Industry: Healthcare
• Work Arrangement: On-site or hybrid — Tucson, Arizona

About This Opportunity

This full-time opportunity at Veterans Health Administration is an excellent opening for experienced professionals in the field of healthcare and medicine. The role is structured around an on-site or hybrid environment based in Tucson, Arizona and is designed for candidates who are ready to make a meaningful contribution from the moment they join.

Based in Tucson, Arizona, this role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with a local team in a structured professional environment. Candidates currently based in the area or open to relocation are strongly encouraged to apply.

Whether you are an established practitioner in healthcare and medicine or a highly skilled professional looking for your next challenge, this Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health role offers the platform to apply your expertise in a real-world, results-oriented environment. Veterans Health Administration is looking for a candidate who can hit the ground running and add genuine value to the team.

Who Should Apply

This role is ideal for candidates who have a solid background in healthcare and medicine and a demonstrable track record of delivering high-quality results. You should possess clinical competence, compassion, precision, and a commitment to patient safety and best-practice care. Experience working with electronic health record (EHR) systems, diagnostic tools, and clinical management platforms will be an advantage, though a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is equally valued.

Beyond technical or domain expertise, Veterans Health Administration is looking for someone who communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, and takes ownership of their work from start to finish. If you thrive in a professional environment and are passionate about the opportunity to improve patient outcomes and contribute to a healthier community, we encourage you to apply.

Key Competencies for This Role

Successful candidates for the Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health position at Veterans Health Administration will typically demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Domain expertise — a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in healthcare and medicine
• Problem-solving ability — the capacity to identify challenges, think critically, and implement practical solutions efficiently
• Communication skills — clear and professional communication with colleagues, stakeholders, and partners at all levels
• Self-management — strong time management and the ability to prioritise a varied workload while meeting deadlines
• Team collaboration — a collaborative and supportive approach to working alongside colleagues across departments or locations
• Adaptability — the ability to respond positively to change and thrive in a dynamic, evolving work environment

How to Apply

To apply for this Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health position at Veterans Health Administration, click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be taken directly to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application.

Before applying, please ensure that your CV or résumé is fully up to date and clearly highlights your experience and accomplishments in healthcare and medicine. If a cover letter is included or requested, tailor it specifically to this role and explain how your background, skills, and goals align with what Veterans Health Administration is looking for in a Recreation Therapist Inpatient/Residential Mental Health.

All applications for this role are processed directly by Veterans Health Administration. Career Nest facilitates the job discovery process and does not pre-screen or forward applications on behalf of employers. There are no fees for job seekers at any stage of the application process.

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