Location: San Luis Obispo, CA

Start Date: 03-30-2026

End Date: 10-12-2026

Contract Type: Travel Contract

Shift Type: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Day shift)

Hours per Week: 40

Candidate Pay Rate: $65 per hour

About United Health Care Staffing

At United Health Care Staffing (UHC Staffing), we believe healthcare staffing should be more than just finding a job. We are here to connect amazing professionals with opportunities that make their careers exciting, rewarding, and meaningful. With us, you're not just signing up for a contract you are joining a team that's got your back, answers your calls, and maybe even cracks a joke or two to brighten your day. Think of us as the travel buddy who handles the logistics while you focus on what you do best helping people heal.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Design and lead therapeutic recreation groups and individual sessions tailored to mental health and EOP participants
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to create person-centered treatment plans
• Monitor participant progress and document outcomes in the medical record
• Provide a safe, structured environment that promotes recovery and skill building
• Adapt activities to meet varying levels of ability and behavioral needs
• Participate in care planning meetings and contribute clinical insights to improve program outcomes

Qualifications

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) preferred or equivalent credential
• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy, or related field preferred
• Experience working in mental health or behavioral health settings, ideally with outpatient or EOP programs
• Current state-required licenses or certifications to practice in California
• Ability to work the specified rotation including weekends
• Clear background check and up-to-date immunizations as required by facility

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy, or related field preferred
• CTRS certification preferred

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong group facilitation and activity planning skills
• Knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles and mental health interventions
• Proficiency in clinical documentation and outcome tracking
• Ability to use a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approach
• Effective communication and teamwork with clinical colleagues
• Crisis de-escalation and safety management skills

Benefits

• Generous housing stipend and travel reimbursement for contract team members
• Medical, dental and vision coverage options to keep you healthy
• 401K retirement savings plan to help you plan ahead
• Life insurance and short-term disability options for peace of mind
• Paid time off so you can recharge and explore the coast
• Licensure assistance and reimbursement for professional fees
• Referral bonus program to reward you for bringing great teammates
• A supportive interdisciplinary team that values your expertise
• Ongoing professional development and CEU support

Travel Perks: Explore San Luis Obispo, CA

This is a travel contract in the San Luis Obispo area, a great base for outdoor lovers and culture fans. Explore nearby beaches like Pismo Beach and Morro Bay for surfing, kayaking and sea otter watching. Hike the dramatic trails at Montana de Oro State Park or take scenic drives to Hearst Castle and the coastline. Discover award-winning wineries in Paso Robles, stroll downtown San Luis Obispo for local eateries and the famous Thursday night farmers market, or take a weekend trip to Big Sur and the central coast wine regions. Plenty of options for weekend adventures and recharging after a week of meaningful work.

Hashtags

#RecreationalTherapistJobs #SanLuisObispoJobs #HealthcareJobs #UHCCareers #MentalHealthJobs #TravelTherapist #TherapeuticRecreation #CaliforniaHealthcare #EOPJobs