Description

PARAPROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR

Full Time
Gateways Percy Village

Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center, a non-profit entity, is an experienced provider that operates Percy Village, a state licensed residential facility for up to 136 adults with mental disabilities, ages 18-59, located in Boyle Heights. The program offers a structured residence and Outpatient Clinic with intensive mental health supportive services in order to prepare and empower clients to develop independent skills, and improve current levels of functioning in order to successfully re-integrate back into community living.

Percy Village employs a dynamic team of approximately 45 multidisciplinary staff (e.g. Paraprofessionals, Master’s level/licensed therapists, Case Aides, Medication Technicians, etc.) seven days per week to monitor care, provide case management services, mental health services including classes in independent living skills and socialization, individual and group therapy sessions, assistance with vocational and education plans, and medication support services.

The responsibilities of the Paraprofessional Counselor include monitoring safety and security of the Gateways Satellite facility by conducting regular rounds, and property searches. Monitors client behavior and reports all relevant information to the next shift. Conducts drug and alcohol screening of the clients. Assists staff with answering telephones, signing clients in and out of the facility, assists with client meals, and initiating and investigating disciplinary action.

Qualifications

Minimum Education Required

• High School Diploma

Essential Skills

• Ability to work and relate effectively with multidisciplinary treatment team, clients and the public.
• Ability to work eight (8) hours without a meal break
• Ability to assess patients for dangerousness and intervene in a timely, calm and appropriate manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently, use good judgement, and remain calm in crisis situations.
• Proven ability to work with adult clients.
• Ability to operate selected equipment (i.e. breathalyzer).
• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet computer programs.
• Ability to work various hours and shifts.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors (i.e. security rounds and transportation of supplies).
• Ability to be objective, stable and firm with clients who have a history of criminal behavior and who have psychiatric disabilities.
• Ability to accept direction from supervisors and complete assigned tasks.
• Ability to appropriately provide direction to clients
• Crisis intervention techniques and basic counseling skills.

Physical Strength

• Light work: able to lift a maximum of 20 pounds

Location: Los Angeles, CA / Gateways Percy Village
Status: (1) Full Time / Non-Exempt / Union / Wed 4 pm-12 am, Thurs&Fri 10 am-6 pm, Sat&Sun 12 pm-8 am