Overview

Under the direction and supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, the Counselor provides direct care for clients ages 5-17 residing in a short-term therapeutic Crisis Stabilization Unit (“CSU”) serving a maximum of six children concurrently. Specific responsibilities include providing therapeutic daily care to children experiencing behavioral and emotional challenges in an acute state of emotional crisis.

All work is performed within a systems-based framework and a psycho-educational model. Work is performed collaboratively with and in support of other services offered by St. Joseph's Villa. All work also adheres to the highest professional ethic standard and in compliance with St. Joseph’s Villa’s mission, values and guiding principles.

Responsibilities

Maintains sight and sound supervision of children

Adheres to Medicaid regulations, DBHDS regulations, Villa regulations, and CSU policies at all times

Supervises and facilitates independent daily activities for clients

Creates and implements safety plans and Individualized Service Plans for clients

Provides psycho-education to clients to enhance social, community, and life skills

Administers medications in accordance with program procedures after successfully completing Medication Administration Training

Manages behaviors and maintains rewards and consequences in accordance with program procedures. Sets parameters and implements positive behavior supports

Assists clients with and supervises personal care if necessary, and washes clients’ clothing and bedding if necessary

Assists with preparing and serving pre-packaged meals

Maintains the cleanliness and orderliness of the unit

Utilizes restraints per Therapeutic Options training to maintain the safety of individual clients, staff members and group as a whole

Maintains appropriate and accurate documentation regarding clients as required

Follows appropriate chain of command within the unit and the Villa in emergency situations

Promotes good community relations and represents St. Joseph’s Villa in a positive manner to the community and families

Participates in staff meetings and weekly treatment team

Facilitates clinically appropriate and professional admissions and discharges of CSU clients

Links clients and families with external resources as clinically appropriate and necessary during discharge

Attends scheduled training programs for professional development that includes, at a minimum, trainings required by St. Joseph’s Villa and by regulatory and accrediting bodies

Performs other duties as directed or required

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in approved human services field (social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, special education, human child or family development, cognitive or behavioral sciences, marriage and family therapy, art or music therapy, or health promotion)
• Qualified Mental Health Provider (“QMHP”) designation
• Two years related clinical experience with relevant population
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
• Valid Virginia driver's license and good driving record
• Excellent documentation skills
• Experience with proprietary software preferred