Gersh Autism, a leading provider of education, therapy, and independent living skills to individuals on the autism spectrum, is seeking a Physical Therapist to join the team in Queens, NY. The Physical Therapist will work with students in the primary/secondary education industry to provide specialized treatment and services aimed at building strength, improving balance, and increasing activity levels. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Gersh Autism students and families.
Responsibilities
- Develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for each student and work with the educational team to implement them effectively
- Utilize specialized knowledge and techniques to help students overcome physical limitations and achieve their potential
- Create and maintain a safe and positive therapeutic environment for students
- Collaborate with parents and families to ensure continuity of care and effective communication
- Work with other Gersh Autism staff to provide comprehensive and integrated services to students
- Continuously evaluate and adjust treatment plans based on student progress and feedback
- Stay up to date on the latest research and developments in the field of physical therapy as it relates to autism spectrum disorders
Requirements
- MA/Doctorate's degree in Physical Therapy
- Active license to practice physical therapy in the state of New York
- At least 2 years of experience working as a physical therapist with individuals on the autism spectrum preferred.
- Strong knowledge of Sensory Processing and how to support regulation. Knowledge of CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Comfort with and willingness to use technology and computer-based documentation systems.
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures
- Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
- Ability to lift (at least 50–65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
- Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
- Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
- Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environmen
- Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
- Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations
Work Conditions
- 8AM- 3:30PM (and once a week until 4 for a team meeting)
- School setting
- Year Round school
- Must be willing to travel to other Gersh school locations
Benefits
Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. The
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k matching)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- Training & Development