Art Therapist

Perley Health is a unique and innovative community that empowers Seniors and Veterans to live life to the fullest. Home to more than 600 Seniors and Veterans in long-term care and in independent apartments, Perley Health provides a growing number of clinical, therapeutic and recreational services to residents, tenants and people from across the region.

One of the largest and most progressive long-term care homes in Ontario, Perley Health is also a centre for research, education, and clinical innovation. Our Centre of Excellence in Frailty-Informed Care conducts and shares the practical research needed to improve care. Future caregivers come here to study and to acquire hands-on skills and experience.

Perley Health's values are brought to life each day by our over 800 employees. And more than 400 regular volunteers connect us closely with the community. Together, we improve the well-being of Canada's aging population.

We are embarking on a multi-year growth strategy, and are seeking an experienced:

Art Therapist

Part-Time - 0.4 FTE 

$30.600 - $38.250

Summary Of Duties

Under the direction of the Manager, Therapeutic Recreation & Creative Arts, the Art Therapist provides instruction, guidance, and therapeutic support to senior residents through art based and creative arts programming within a supportive long-term care environment. The role focuses on enhancing residents' confidence, fostering social engagement, encouraging self expression, and promoting cognitive stimulation and overall quality of life. Working collaboratively with the recreation and creative arts team and other care partners, the Art Therapist facilitates meaningful creative experiences that reflect residents' interests, strengths, and needs, contributing to a positive, resident centred atmosphere. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver individual and group art sessions tailored to cognitive, emotional, physical, and social needs.
• Assess resident interests, goals, and abilities.
• Document attendance, statistical information, RAI data, and progress in PointClickCare.
• Design and adapt art materials, tools, and activities to ensure accessibility and therapeutic benefit.
• Prepare, set up, and maintain safe studio environments and materials; follow IPAC, WHMIS, and safety protocols.
• Visit residents, recruit participants, and assist with safe transport to and from programs.
• Contribute to displays, exhibitions, and facility events.
• Supervise volunteers, students, and interns.
• Attend meetings, including multidisciplinary committees, and contribute to collaborative planning for large-scale events.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies, WHMIS, MSDS monitoring, and address safety issues.
• Order and procure supplies, materials, and equipment as authorized.
• Prepare for sessions through research and support facility functions with displays, decorations, and other tasks.
• Provide assistance with resident care during meals and other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education and skill requirements

• Graduate level diploma or Master's Degree in Art Therapy from a program meeting Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) education standards (or equivalent).
• Professional registration/certification (e.g., CATA, eligible for registration, or equivalent).
• Excellent interpersonal, observational, and therapeutic communication skills.
• Ability to work compassionately with the frail elderly population, including those with dementia, cognitive impairments, and complex mental health needs.
• Ability to adapt interventions creatively to accommodate physical, cognitive, and sensory limitations.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and clinical judgment.
•  Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team environment.
• Competency in use of basic art materials, therapeutic tools, and equipment.
• Computer proficiency, including documentation software such as PointClickCare is an asset
• Knowledge of gerontology, aging processes, and trauma‑informed care principles is an asset

Please forward your resume and cover letter, outlining your background and experience with each key responsibility to be considered for the role.

We thank all candidates for applying; however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

For candidates selected for consideration, Perley Health, upon request, will make reasonable accommodation for any disability-related needs with respect to the recruitment process and materials.