Pediatric THERAPIST – Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center Redmond
/About Us
Founded in 1976, Little Bit is a non-profit organization leading the way in the field of equine assisted activities and therapies. Ours is one of the largest programs of its kind in the United States. We serve 230 riders and patients each week with 22 horses and the help of more than 350 volunteers. Our mission is to improve the lives, bodies, and spirits of children and adults with disabilities through equine-assisted activities and therapies, and to be an inspiration and educational resource to the therapeutic riding profession both regionally and nationally.
Our Facilities
In 2013, Little Bit relocated to Dunmire Stables, a 17-acre site in Redmond, including two treatment rooms, six buildings, two covered arenas, one outdoor arena, 40 paddocks, a ¼ mile racetrack, wetlands, rain garden, detention pond and two creeks.
About the position
The therapist is responsible for direct treatment of patients, with a wide range of diagnoses. This person will be responsible for the evaluation of the patient and the implementation of the therapy treatment plan utilizing equine movement as a treatment tool. The therapist will also be responsible for appropriate communication (verbal & written) with family members, volunteers and staff members. The therapist will operate under minimal supervision with considerable latitude for independent judgment and actions in assigned therapy treatment and patient matters. May make suggestions and recommendations to other staff and clients within the scope of this position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
· Evaluate potential therapy patients as needed.
· Determine treatment plan including long and short-term goals for all patients on caseload.
· Work in collaboration with family.
· Use appropriate communication (verbal & written) with family members and other service providers.
· Maintain up to date charts for all patients. Each patients chart must contain the following signed and dated documents:
o Initial evaluation report and appropriate re-evaluation reports
o Daily treatment progress notes
o Authorization to arrange medical care and release of medical records
o General liability and photo release
o Discharge summary
· Implement treatment plan.
· Re-evaluate patients every 12 months, or on an as-needed basis to review treatment plan and goals.
· Write progress reports for patients as required by physicians, insurance companies, parents, etc.
· Collaborate with Adaptive Riding Instructors, or other recreational staff to establish a transition plan for any patients participating in these recreational programs upon discharge from the therapy program.
· Respond to problems, complaints, and suggestions of volunteers and/or horse handlers.
· Communicate scheduling needs to the Therapy Services Director (horses, horse handlers, equipment and/or patient, volunteers).
· Fulfill the role of clinical instructor when students attend for clinical affiliation, if appropriate.
· Participate in fundraisers, demonstrations and special events.
· Ensure that Little Bit is provided with documentation to support current legal status as a practicing Therapist in this state.
· Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
1. Education/License: Current license in Washington State as a Speech Language Pathologist.
2. Experience:
· Completed or planned continuing education of two approved American Hippotherapy Association courses.
· Knowledgeable of the standards and requirements of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, Int. accredited program.
3. Ability to demonstrate:
· Competency in the provisions of therapist’s discipline's services in accordance with specific standards of practice.
· A thorough understanding of the principles and practice of hippotherapy.
· Advocacy for hippotherapy and Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center.
4. Must foster teamwork with professional behavior at all times.
· US citizen or valid resident/ work permit.
Essential Functions
• Lift and carry 50 lbs
• Assist patients weighing up to 190 lbs. with mounts and dismounts
•Walk 5-8 miles per day over uneven surfaces
• Work with arms at shoulder level for up to 30 min 6x/day
• Kneel on floor up to 30 min 6x/day
• Must be physically fit with quick reflexes and high level of alertness at all times during treatments involving horses.
• Perform office work at computer sitting for up to three hours
Job Description
This is a part time position 2-4 days a week. No benefits offered at this time.
To Apply
Please submit your resume’ and a cover letter as a single email to: LBtherapy@littlebit.org.
