What are the responsibilities and job description for the Counselor - Alabama School for the Blind position at Alabama State Department of Education?
Candidates who are Blind, Visually Impaired, Deaf, or Hard of Hearing are encouraged to apply for this position and may be given preference in hiring as federal laws permit. Information related to disability is not required and, if disclosed voluntarily, will be used only in AIDB’s efforts to create opportunities for individuals with exceptionalities. Non-disclosure will not subject any applicant to adverse treatment.
POSITION: Counselor
Health and Clinical Services
LOCATION: Alabama School for the Blind
ABOUT ALABAMA INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND BLIND
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation, and service program serving individuals of all ages who are Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, multidisabled, and their families. Founded in 1858, AIDB serves more than 30,000 infants, toddlers, children, adults, and senior citizens with hearing and vision loss throughout Alabama each year.
Our services span a lifetime and include five campuses in Talladega, a statewide network of regional centers, Early Intervention services, traditional and nontraditional educational opportunities in residential, day, and outreach settings, and a manufacturing facility known as Alabama Industries for the Blind (AIB), the state’s largest employer of adults who are Blind. AIDB’s three K-12 schools — Alabama School for the Blind, Alabama School for the Deaf, and Helen Keller School of Alabama — provide specialized educational services that empower students to achieve their full potential.
Our employees are among the organization’s most valuable assets and resources. We share a commitment to leveling the playing field for all. Our mission makes AIDB a unique place to work.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This position will work with students who are blind or visually impaired to provide in-depth psychological services with the goal of helping students succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. The successful candidate will deliver individual and group counseling services, maintain thorough direct-service documentation, and implement programs that foster inclusive learning environments for students from diverse backgrounds. Dedicated to student advocacy and family-centered care, this role coordinates student needs within FERPA and HIPAA guidelines, responds to crises (including after-hours emergencies), and requires a flexible schedule for evening and weekend commitments.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
Utilizing your clinical expertise, you will empower blind or visually impaired students by providing vital counseling, mentoring, and instructional services that promote holistic wellness. By reinforcing critical skills—such as strong communication, problem-solving, anger management, self-regulation, and social skills—you will help students navigate social or emotional distress in an open, accepting, and friendly environment.
At AIDB, we believe in the limitless potential of every individual. Through a collaborative, family-centered team approach, you will directly shape inclusive learning environments and ensure equal access to effective educational and mental health services .
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree or higher degree in any area of counseling or social work.
One (1) year work experience in the field of counseling.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
V alid Class A or Class AA Professional Educator Certificate in School Counseling.
E xperience with students who are blind or visually impaired.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Core Responsibilities & Professional Standards
Ethical & Professional Excellence: Uphold the highest professionalism and ethical standards expected of licensed psychologists and counselors.
Student Advocacy: Actively serve as a dedicated advocate for students, ensuring their academic, social, and emotional needs are met.
Family Engagement: Conduct thorough, family-centered interviews to foster collaborative support systems in coordination with the K-12 Social Worker.
Care Coordination: Act as the primary coordinator for sharing and interpreting information regarding students' psychological needs and concerns, strictly adhering to FERPA and HIPAA guidelines.
Crisis Response: Respond to crises efficiently in accordance with AIDB guidelines, including a willingness to be on-call and contactable after hours for emergencies.
Professional Development: Actively engage in continuous professional growth, learning opportunities, and development activities.
Operational & Schedule Requirements
Time Management: Demonstrate a proven ability to organize, prioritize, and complete tasks efficiently and on a timely basis.
Flexibility: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including required evening and weekend hours to accommodate campus and student needs.
Communication
Communication Excellence: Exhibit excellent communication skills.
Certification Requirements
School Counseling Certification: Must be eligible to obtain a Provisional Certificate in School Counseling. This requires completing the application process and meeting all requirements assigned by the Alabama State Department of Education within the first thirty-six months of employment.
Upon offer of employment, the applicant must submit to a fingerprint background check at an agency designated and paid by AIDB. This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job goals, qualifications, and responsibilities, and the employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned.
SALARY:
$49,520.00 - $66,061.00 Scale D2-56 MA/Provisional Certificate
$59,916.00 - $81,851.00 Scale E2-61 Class AA Professional Educator Certificate
$65,766.00 - $88,336.00 Scale E2-62 Class AA Professional Educator Certificate with Doctoral Degree
197 Days Direct Deposit Required
For eligible employees, the following benefits are available :
Health, dental, and vision insurance available
TRS retirement
Deferred compensation options available
Paid time off
Paid Holidays
Salary : $49,520 - $88,336