Recreational Therapist
Location: San Luis Obispo, CA
Start Date: 02-23-2026
End Date: 08-30-2026
Shift Type: Friday-Tuesday or Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Day shift, rotating schedule)
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 meaningful therapeutic activities tailored to individuals and groups in the Enhanced Outpatient Program
- Collaborate with mental health clinicians to develop and document treatment goals and progress
- Facilitate skill-building sessions that promote social, vocational, and leisure independence
- Monitor client safety and behavior, implementing interventions and reporting changes promptly
- Evaluate participant outcomes and maintain timely, thorough documentation that informs care plans
- Provide engaging group therapy and recreational programming that supports recovery and resilience
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement
Qualifications
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or eligible/training underway preferred
- Background in Recreational Therapy with experience in mental health and outpatient settings
- Demonstrated experience with Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) models or similar services preferred
- Current BLS/CPR certification or willingness to obtain upon hire
- Ability to pass required background checks and facility-specific clearances
- Excellent communication, documentation, and group facilitation skills
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of recreational therapy principles and evidence-based interventions
- Comfort facilitating groups focused on mental health recovery and coping skills
- Strong behavioral observation and documentation abilities
- Ability to develop individualized activity plans that meet therapeutic goals
- Collaborative mindset for working within a multidisciplinary mental health team
- Good time management and organizational skills to run consistent programming
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and a 40-hour weekly guarantee to keep your bank account happy
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision coverage so you and your family are covered
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer contributions to help you plan ahead
- Paid Time Off to recharge and come back inspired
- Licensure assistance and reimbursement so you can grow professionally without the stress
- Referral bonus program — bring a friend, get rewarded
- Supportive multidisciplinary team that values your creativity and expertise
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development
Travel Perks: Explore San Luis Obispo, CA
This is a contract position in the beautiful Central Coast. When you’re off shift, explore nearby attractions like the beaches of Pismo and Morro Bay, hike Bishop Peak for stunning valley views, take a weekend wine tasting trip in Paso Robles, visit the historic Hearst Castle up the coast, enjoy local farmers markets and downtown San Luis Obispo shops and restaurants, and unwind at Avila Hot Springs or nearby state parks.
Apply Now
Ready to start your next adventure as a Recreational Therapist? Let's get you moving forward!
Send your resume to [email protected] or call us at 408-441-9200 today.
Hashtags
#RecreationalTherapistJobs #SanLuisObispoJobs #HealthcareJobs #UHCCareers #MentalHealthJobs #OutpatientTherapy #EOPJobs #TherapeuticRecreation #CaliforniaJobs #ApplyNow