Job Description

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Recreational Therapist

Title:

Recreational Therapist

Department:

Violence to Resilience

Reports to: Safer Spaces Team Lead

Classification:

Full Time, Salaried, Non-Management

Hours:

37.5 hours per week

Location

: This role will be based out of Halifax, NS

YWCA Halifax is a progressive, multi-service, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls, two-spirited and gender diverse people and their families at critical turning points in their lives. We work to transform lives by providing a continuum of services and programs that drive lasting positive change. We strive to change the underlying issues that are root causes of inequality, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Our four program focus areas include: promoting the health, wellness, and leadership of women and girls; advancing women's economic and housing security; delivering quality, accessible, early learning, and childcare; and working to end violence against women, girls and gender diverse individuals.

Why work for the YWCA

Staff at YWCA Halifax enjoy a supportive and dynamic team environment, a commitment to staff growth, a connection to the national and international YWCA movements, learning from colleagues in a multiservice agency, and a strong shared vision.

Why YOU should apply

Even if you don't have all the requirements listed in this position, you may be the right candidate. If you are a natural leader with a strong attention to detail and a passion for social justice and gender equity, we want to hear from you. Take a chance and apply. Tell us how you can make a difference through your YWCA.

Program Overview

This program provides a supportive, trauma-informed residential environment for youth who have experienced human trafficking and sexual exploitation. As part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team, the Recreational Therapist plays a key role in fostering healing and connection through therapeutic recreation. This role involves designing and facilitating group and individual activities that promote emotional regulation, resilience, and healthy social engagement.

Role of the Recreational Therapist

Design and facilitate recreation-based programming that supports healing, growth, and youth-led engagement

Deliver individual and group therapeutic activities that promote wellness, resilience, and community integration

Collaborate with program staff to support coordinated care plans Plan outings and special events aligned with trauma-informed practices and youth interests Use a strengths-based approach to empower youth to contribute to programming design and decision-making Maintain administrative documentation, including program logs and client progress notes Contribute to internal program development, evaluation, and quality improvement efforts Participate in relevant team meetings, trainings, and supervision

Qualifications and Requirements

Diploma or degree in Recreation Therapy At least 3-5 years of experience working with youth in therapeutic or community-based settings Understanding of trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction frameworks Familiarity with the Child and Youth Care Program (CYCP) model is an asset Ability to engage youth with diverse experiences and identities, including those impacted by trauma, exploitation, or displacement Excellent facilitation, communication, and organizational skills Able to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team and independently when needed Must be able to provide a current Child Abuse Registry and Criminal Record check with a Vulnerable Sector check upon hiring
YWCA Halifax is committed to diversity, and we welcome all suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. YWCA Halifax is governed by, employs, and serves diverse individuals and community members. Self-identification by applicants does not guarantee an interview but we want you to know that we understand that lived experience of racialization, Indigeneity, disability, and gender diversity are their own knowledge and expertise. We value this expertise and consider it as we discern who to interview.

If interested, please send your

cover letter and resume in one document

to

humanresources@ywcahalifax.com

Subject line: Recreational Therapy

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Paid time off
Work Location: In person