Community Care- Youth Development Counselor

Position Summary 

The Community Care – Youth Development Counselor provides immediate, trauma-informed support during behavioral or emotional crises affecting youth within the RTC community. This role ensures safety and de-escalates high-stress situations by promoting consistent implementation of Individualized Crisis Support Plans (ICSPs).  

Key Responsibilities 

Crisis Response & Stabilization 

• Respond to behavioral and emotional crises by supporting de-escalation, ensuring safety and facilitating post-incident reflection.
• Stabilize individuals and environments, ensuring physical and emotional safety
• Support re-entry into the program or setting after the crisis subsides
• Assist with the supervision of youth during transition and mass movement around campus.
• Conduct authorized searches in accordance with New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations

Intervention Planning 

• Assist in updating individualized crisis prevention and response plans
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings to provide insight and feedback.
• Recommend intervention strategies based on observations and incident trends

Documentation & Compliance 

• Document critical incidents in accordance with agency, regulatory, and licensing requirements.
• Monitor trends and provide summaries to leadership for review and analysis
• Support mandated reporting and emergency response procedures

Training & Capacity Building 

• Model effective de-escalation and intervention techniques from the Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) Model.
• Support new hire and ongoing training efforts related to behavior management
• Reinforce a culture of safety, respect, and accountability

Collaboration & Communication 

• Participate in post-incident debriefs and process improvement efforts
• Performs other functions as assigned

Minimum Requirements 

• Valid NYS driver’s license
• High School Diploma or GED
• Experience handling groups of children & teens, preferably in a residential setting. 
• Ability to participate in mandated initial TCI training during weekday evenings upon hire. 
• Fluent English reading, writing, speaking, computer skills necessary to record observations and monitor reports. 

Special qualifications 

• Minimum 2 years of experience working with youth in residential, behavioral health, or crisis response settings
• Understanding of trauma-informed care, behavioral support strategies, and adolescent development
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure

• Proficient in electronic documentation systems and incident reporting

Work Conditions/Availability  

• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts as needed
• Requires frequent movement between program locations and the ability to respond quickly in active situations
• Regular exposure to high-stress scenarios and emotional intensity
• Full-time positions are available. Positions require at least one weekend shift.