CREATIVE ARTS THERAPIST - PT 20 Hrs

 NJ MENTOR - Founded in 1980, The MENTOR Network is a national network of local human services providers offering an array of quality, community-based services to adults and children with developmental disabilities or acquired brain injury; to children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral and medically complex challenges; and to elders in need of home care. 

CREATIVE ARTS THERAPIST  - PT 20 HRS - Ewing & Somerset locations

Creative arts (art, dance, and music) therapists apply the techniques of their respective arts in the effort to improve the physical and mental health of children ages 15-21. Art therapists use drawing, painting, and sculpture as a vehicle for client self-expression, creativity, and emotional release. Art is used as a tool for gaining psychological insight. Dance (or movement) therapists encourage clients to express themselves through movement of their bodies. The dance therapist may lead a dance therapy group to help clients gain confidence and comfort with their bodies, thereby improving overall self-esteem. Music therapists organize and conduct musical programs with the goal of facilitating relaxation, providing support, encouraging creativity, increasing self-confidence, and providing an outlet for the expression of feelings in clients. Musical programs might involve vocal, rhythmic, instrumental, or listening activities; instrument instruction; music appreciation and theory; or folk ensembles, bands, and choruses.  

Responsibilities:

• Prepare a recreation/leisure assessment within the first week of consumer admission.  
• Develop and implement activities for creative arts groups (e.g., singing, drumming, participating in art projects, dancing,) for each client on a weekly basis.
• Work individually with clients and in group sessions, using the arts to encourage self-expression.
• Provide therapy and documentation relative to each session on a weekly basis on site at the Ewing  and Somerset locations. 
• Teach clients basic skills necessary to engage in creative arts (e.g., a dance step, mime, painting, drawing, utilizing various forms of instruments).
• Confer with allied health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists) about the goals and objectives for each client.
• Maintain records on client progress and assisting in discharge planning
• Evaluate clients' responses to creative arts therapies through observation and interview
• Train and monitor staff in accessing community-based recreation opportunities.

Qualifications:

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• A master's degree preferred, requiring two years of full-time study. Bachelor’s degree with experience will be considered.

• 2 - 5 years experience required. 

• Must possess valid driver’s license.