Ridgebury Farm Nature-Based Occupational Therapist Ridgefield, CT · Full time

Apply for Nature-Based Occupational Therapist

Ridgebury Farm is a non-profit 501(c)3 dedicated to promoting holistic healing and well-being through nature-based Occupational, physical, and Speech therapy. We believe in the power of outdoor settings, mindfulness, and ecological connection to support overall health. Our programs integrate traditional therapeutic approaches with licensed practitioners with outdoor activities, equine-assisted therapy (hippotherapy), horticulture, and wilderness experiences. About Ridgebury Farm & Stables, LLC & Ridgebury Riders, Inc. Ridgebury Farm is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports mental and physical health through animal-assisted therapies. Our mission is to increase the health and well-being of people with intellectual, social, or physical challenges, and to build a supportive and optimistic environment for our riders, their families and friends, and our community. Ridgebury Riders was founded in 2021 and is headquartered at Ridgebury Farm, a 56-acre property that includes multiple riding arenas, private trails, and horses, sheep, goats, alpacas, chickens, and bunnies.

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Nature-Based Occupational Therapist to provide Occupational Therapy services in primarily outdoor settings as well as to assess, develop, and implement personalized therapy plans that help clients achieve greater independence in their daily lives. This role involves working with individuals, families, and groups, utilizing nature as a tool for healing and growth. The ideal candidate has experience in Occupational Therapy and a passion for using nature-based interventions.  

NOTE: This is a full-time role (40 hours) and will require Saturday hours. 

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and group therapy sessions in outdoor environments, including woods, farms, or equine facilities.
• Assess clients' physical, cognitive, and emotional needs to develop individualized therapy plans.
• Implement evidence-based occupational therapy interventions to improve daily living skills, motor function, and independence.
• Develop and implement nature-based treatment plans tailored to client needs utilizing traditional OT methods as well as hippotherapy.
• Utilize experiential techniques such as ecotherapy, horticultural therapy, mindfulness, animal-assisted therapy, hippotherapy, and adventure therapy.
• Collaborate with other therapists, managers, and healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintain accurate client records and documentation in compliance with ethical and legal standards.
• Educate clients about the therapeutic benefits of nature and encourage sustainable engagement with the environment.
• Facilitate workshops, retreats, and community programs promoting mental and physical health through nature-based interventions and traditional OT methodology.   

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Licensure: Current CT licensure or eligibility to obtain licensure as an Occupational Therapist (OTR/L).
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in occupational therapy preferred (new graduates are welcome to apply).
• Experience working in pediatrics, rehabilitation, mental health, equine-assisted therapy, is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Passion for helping clients enhance their quality of life through occupational therapy.
• Training in ecotherapy, adventure therapy, equine-assisted therapy, or horticultural therapy is a plus.
• Ability/desire to work with patients on horseback.  
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care and mindfulness practices.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for integrating nature into mental health treatment.

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling with outdoor work environments.
• Health benefits including; Medical, Dental, Vision and 401k after 30 days. 
• Annual credit of $1000 for CEU.   
• Opportunity to develop innovative therapeutic programs.
• Professional development and training in nature-based interventions.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.