recreation therapy

internship program

Contact

Rebecca Washburn, CTRS, RT Internship Coordinator
(804) 359-4093
rebecca.washburn@thevirginiahome.org

program overview

The Recreation Therapy Department serves 130 residents who range in age from 20 to over 80.  Most residents have resided at The Home for many years, creating a unique family environment.  The department boasts 5 full-time Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, 1 full-time Board Certified Music Therapist, and 1 part-time Recreation Specialist.  The diversity of the staff gives the student the opportunity to observe and work with a variety of personal styles in Therapeutic Recreation service delivery.  The scope of services includes both group and individualized programming within the facility, as well as in the community.   Program content focuses on daily use of the therapeutic swimming pool, gymnasium, and our state of the art recreation therapy department that includes an accessible kitchen and dining area, craft shop, music therapy room, and large multi-purpose room.

position description

The student will work hands-on with a variety of residents with multiple diagnosis (see fact sheet for specifics).  The student will be given the opportunity to manage a small caseload (12-15 residents) under direct supervision of the Internship Coordinator.  Management of a caseload includes:  conducting assessments, client interviewing, developing and implementing treatment plans and goals, and documenting outcomes.

Students should expect to be involved in developing and implementing a broad base of leisure activities, for group settings, as well as on an individual basis.  Student responsibilities will include conducting needs assessment, protocols, program content and evaluation tools.  Students should be familiar with the Leisure Ability Approach to service provision, especially as it relates to providing leisure education programming.

Initially, the student will shadow the therapists, observing and absorbing various leadership styles, intervention strategies, as well as examining the content of service provision.  The student will be given progressively more challenging opportunities to develop and present all aspects of service delivery.  Additionally, the student will work with the Director to develop a familiarity with the various responsibilities involved in TR administration.

Click here to download the full position description.

qualifications / hours

• Valid driver’s license in good standing (for purpose of training and driving accessible vehicles)
• Solid academic standing (min. GPA 2.8)
• Strong swimming ability required/ or Lifeguard training a plus (aquatic therapy pool sessions at least 1x per week)
• Artistic/Creative experience a plus
• 40 hours/week
• Days, evenings, and weekends as assigned

application process

Complete each item below and submit as a package to:

Rebecca Washburn, CTRS

Recreation Therapy Internship Coordinator

The Virginia Home

1101 Hampton Street

Richmond, VA  23220 

1. A resume outlining your relevant work/volunteer experience

1. A brief narrative giving a general overview of your personal thoughts and philosophies about leisure, therapeutic recreation, and working with people with disabilities

1. A brief summary of your goals and expectations for your internship experience

1. A statement of where you expect to be professionally, in 5 years

1. A copy of your transcript of coursework (an official copy is not necessary