New Directions Counselor

Starting salary $45,000-$50,000 annually 

Responsibilities

1. Provide counseling services, individual or group, to shelter residents, non-residents, and their dependents.  The groups will include DVSA and Stalking support group for residents, adult survivors of incest, and a closed group for agency referrals.
2. Must be available to work flexible hours to meet client needs.
3. Provide assessments and make referrals if applicable.
4. Must advocate on the behalf of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking victims.
5. Assist in crisis intervention needs.
6. Facilitate support groups and provide necessary documentation.
7. Complete all necessary paperwork accurately, honestly, and within the time permitted.
8. Maintain paperwork in client files and review the service and treatment plans according to regulations.
9. Initiate contact with client within 3 days of intake into shelter.
10. Complete assessment of client’s needs by the third counseling or advocacy session. If client declines document the offer of services.
11. Complete service plan by the fifth advocacy or counseling session and review at a minimum of once every six (6) months.
12. Submit billing weekly by assigned deadline.
13. Coordinate case consultations for client’s needs with shelter manager and Program Director to assure a holistic approach is practiced while providing services.
14. Attend weekly Admin meetings for client case review.
15. Serve as the liaison between clients and service providers in the community, if necessary.
16. Uphold all policy, procedure, and operations manuals.
17. Attend all training, workshops, and conferences necessary to maintain licensure, certification, and/or necessary CEU credits.
18. Always uphold confidentiality laws.
19. Participate in community events to bring awareness to DVSA and Stalking and program services.  
20. Assist with coverage for Sexual Assault Response Team.
21. Responsible for completing the required minimum number of training hours per year (24 hours/full-time; 12 hours/part-time).
22. Other duties as required by program needs.

Competencies

1. Understands and applies the agency policies and procedures (i.e. dress code and appearance, adherence to work schedules, completion of trainings, etc.).
2. Punctually attends meetings and trainings. Completes assigned trainings in adequate time frames and obtains the minimum number of training hours required within the calendar year.
3. Demonstrates dependability by consistently working scheduled shifts and following proper procedures when unable to work scheduled shifts.
4. Displays cultural competency by valuing the fundamental rights, dignity, and self-worth of all people including respecting age, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spirituality, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, socioeconomic status, or any basis proscribed by law.
5. Interacts with others in a professional manner and effectively navigates interpersonal differences. Maintains appropriate boundaries with supervisors, colleagues, and clients.
6. Demonstrates the ability to consult or seek supervision regarding concerns or issues and communicates effectively with colleagues and clients.
7. Displays professionalism and ability to work as part of a team.
8. Identifies potential safety issues and takes measures to reduce risks and protect clients and staff.
9. Understanding of trauma-informed services and sensitivity to the unique circumstances to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
10. Exhibits interaction with each new client for a minimum of fifteen minutes to introduce yourself and the program to discuss services and counseling needs.
11. Understands responsibility to maintain an average of ten to fifteen hours per week of billable services for residential clients (group and/or individual).
12. Attends and participates in supervision meetings a minimum of two times each month. Facilitates a minimum of one training per quarter (community or agency).
13. Demonstrates ability to complete progress notes, assessments, and treatment plans in a thorough and timely manner.
14. Focuses on ethical services and ensures HIPAA guidelines and confidentiality policies are followed at all times.

The Counselor will receive training and be evaluated based on each of the above competencies and responsibilities. Your signature indicates you have reviewed and understand the job description.

This is a full time 40-hour per week salary position classified as exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Marie Detty Youth and Family Services is an at-will employer.  Employment is by mutual consent of the company and employee and either may terminate the relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice.  This job is contingent upon funding; however, availability of funding is not a guarantee of continued employment, nor does it imply any specific terms of employment.

Requirements

1. Must be 21 years old.
2. Master’s degree in social work, behavioral sciences, or counseling. LPC, LMFT, LSCW, LBP, or under supervision required. Experience working with families and children preferred. A practicum student or intern in an accredited graduate program in preparation for one of the above licenses may provide counseling to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking and their dependents.
3. Demonstrate strong writing, verbal, and organizational skills.
4. Must have strong assessment and interpersonal skills, flexible attitude, and able to meet the demands of a heavy caseload.
5. Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.
6. Must have a valid driver’s license and telephone.
7. Must pass FBI background investigation.
8. Ability to communicate with and advocate on behalf of residents.
9. Ability to maintain records and confidentiality. 
10. Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.
11. Ability to assess situations, identify potential safety issues, and independently initiate safe interventions.
12. Must be able to attend mandatory trainings and monthly staff meetings as scheduled. The Counselor is required to become certified (within 90 days) in CPR/First Aid.

Salary : $50,000 - $60,000