Counselor

Description

 Counselor: The Counselor provides essential support, education, orientation, daily living skills training, case

management, and crisis response to clients residing in community-based residences. This role

includes helping clients with their transition to more independent living through assessment, service

planning, individual and group counseling, and coordination with external providers.

RESPONSIBILITIES  

Client Services and Goal Achievement:· Partners with each client to develop and implement an individualized Service Plan based on assessment and client-identified goals.· Provides coaching, teaching, individual and group counseling within the scope of the program's services to assist clients in achieving their goals.· Collaborates with East House staff and external providers to coordinate client services and make referrals as needed.· Maintains familiarity with all clients in the unit by reviewing communication logs, participating in Case Reviews, and addressing their needs during on-duty shifts.· Provides education and support to clients’ family and friends to promote successful treatment outcomes.· Participates in the development and maintenance of the therapeutic community within the residence.· Manages a small case load and completes the required OASAS documentation· Maintains familiarity with all clients in the program through participating in Case Reviews, reviewing overlap, and communication with staff.· Coordinates with Program Manager and Financial Case Manager in assisting clients with funding and financial case management.· Be available for weekend, holiday, and/or emergency shifts to ensure continuity of care and support for clients.

Daily Living Skills and Health & Safety· Teaches, supports, and assists clients with daily living skills including light housekeeping, meal preparation, shopping, and maintaining safe and sanitary living conditions.· Supervises and assists clients in following through with appointments (e.g., medical, therapy),and ensures treatment recommendations are met.· Supervises clients in managing medications in accordance with East House policies and procedures; maintains documentation for medication management as per regulatory standards.

 Program Management and Coordination · Coordinates activities and schedules for the residence, ensuring that resources are organized and activities run smoothly. · Facilitates individuals, groups, and activities as necessary. · Maintains a safe and supportive living environment, ensuring that the residence remains a sober, clean, and safe space. · Addresses any emergent client needs or crises during on-duty hours and collaborate with appropriate staff to resolve issues. 

Documentation and Reporting · Ensure all client interactions, service plans, and progress are documented accurately according to East House standards and regulatory requirements. · Provide regular updates and progress reports to supervisors and stakeholders regarding client status and goals. 

Note: This job description may not cover all job duties and is subject to change without notice. Job duties, responsibilities, and/or activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS  Education· Minimum of High School Diploma or GED.· Associate’s degree in Human Services, Social Work or other related degree preferred.· Equivalent experience in lieu of education may be considered.

Experience· Minimum of 1-3 years’ residential support or case management experience.

Other Skills/Abilities· Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.· Exceptional customer service skills with commitment to helping others.· Ability to quickly adapt and be flexible in approach to job tasks and challenges and maintain emotional control under stress.· Excellent time management skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to multi-task and manage multiple priorities with competing deadlines.· Capability to work cooperatively with culturally diverse clients, staff, and community service providers.· Basic computer literacy, including the ability to use email, conduct online research, and create basic documents (MS Office Suite including Excel, Outlook and Word).

Licenses/Certifications· Narcan training preferred.· Provisional Qualified Health Professional (QHP) Status or CASAC-T required for OASAS licensed programs.

COMPETENCIES  Alignment with East House Values· Humanistic, Collaborative, Optimistic, Progressive, Integrity.· Represents the organization professionally and aligns with its mission.· Performs work with integrity and in compliance with established processes, procedures, and regulations

Accountability· Takes responsibility for all work activities and personal actions.· Follows through on commitments; implements decisions that have been agreed upon.· Maintains confidentiality with sensitive information.· Acknowledges and learns from mistakes without blaming others.· Recognizes the impact of one’s behavior on others.

Commitment to Belonging, Respect, and Building a Supportive Community· Values and appreciates the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of every individual.· Actively includes others in conversations and decision-making, fostering connections by learning about others' interests, and celebrating achievements to make individuals feel valued.· Listening without judgment, communicating and interacting politely and civilly, and acknowledging others' contributions to show appreciation and build trust.· Offering help, encouraging collaboration, and creating safe spaces where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. 

Requirements

Educational & Experience

• Required:
• Minimum of a Bachelors’ degree in a human services related field with a minimum of two years’ paid experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licensure & Certification

• Required:
• NYS motor vehicle license, safe driving record and availability of personal vehicle for work.
• Preferred but not required:
• Licensure or certification in human services.
• Qualified Mental Health Staff as defined by OMH Residential regulations required for work with OMH licensed programs.