What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Therapist position at The Lighthouse of Southern MN?
Program Theapist
We are seeking a licensed therapist with experience working with children, families, and couples.
Visit our website to learn more and apply!
www.thelighthouseofsouthernmn.org/employment
Organizational Relationship:
The Program Therapist reports to the Program Clinical Therapist Supervisor and works collaboratively with Program Directors, Housing Managers, and support staff.
Position Overview:
The Program Therapist is responsible for providing direct therapeutic services to Guests of The Lighthouse of Southern MN. We are seeking a licensed therapist with experience working with individuals, families, and couples.
This role provides trauma-informed, strengths-based therapy to support Guests as they work toward stability, emotional well-being, healthy relationships, and personal growth. The Program Therapist will work within established program structures and clinical guidelines to deliver consistent, ethical, and effective care.
Responsibilities also include maintaining accurate, timely documentation and completing billing practices in compliance with Minnesota regulations.
Primary Responsibilities:
Clinical Services
- Establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with guests
- Conduct assessments and develop individualized treatment plans
- Provide direct therapy services, including individual, family, and group counseling
- Support guests’ emotional, psychological, and behavioral health needs
- Develop and implement safety plans as needed
- Facilitate access to mental health resources, referrals, and external services
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards of practice
- Model and maintain healthy professional boundaries
- Provide services within scope of licensure and under clinical supervision as required by Minnesota regulations
Documentation & Billing
- Complete timely and accurate clinical documentation, including assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries
- Ensure all services are documented in alignment with organizational, state, and payer requirements (including Medicaid/insurance guidelines as applicable)
- Submit and manage billing documentation in accordance with agency, state, and payer requirements
- Maintain organized and compliant clinical records
Program Support
- Facilitate mental health and life skills groups as assigned
- Collaborate with Program Directors, Housing Managers, and staff to support guest success
- Participate in case consultations and team meetings
- Follow established clinical frameworks and programming guidelines
- Support implementation of trauma-informed practices within programming
Organizational Accountability & Collaboration
- Maintain consistent communication with the Program Clinical Therapist Supervisor, including regular one-on-one meetings and ongoing clinical consultation, as scheduled, to support alignment, guest care, and program effectiveness
- Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development
- Collaborate with internal staff and external partners to support continuity of care
- Maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations and ethical standards of practice
- Support data collection and reporting as needed
- Promote and adhere to the mission and vision of The Lighthouse of Southern MN
Education and Experience
- Master’s degree in behavioral sciences, social work, psychology, or related field
- Active clinical licensure in Minnesota (LGSW, LICSW, LPCC, LMFT, or equivalent)
- Experience providing therapy in a clinical or community-based setting preferred
Qualifications & Skills
- Strong clinical skills and ability to provide effective therapeutic services
- Compassion, empathy, and ability to respond to individuals in crisis
- Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to manage time, documentation, and caseload effectively
- Ability to work independently within a structured environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 applications
- Ability to effectively use technology and electronic systems to support documentation and communication
Physical Demands
- Ability to travel for meetings and community outreach as needed
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and assist with occasional physical tasks
- Ability to respond to crisis situations in a fast-paced environment
Attributes
- Strong commitment to mission, diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Team-oriented with a collaborative approach
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Ability to bring consistency and reliability to the role
- Commitment to ongoing learning and growth
This job description is not meant to be all-inclusive. It defines the critical job responsibilities and requirements only, which may change at any time, with or without notice due to agency needs, regulatory requirements, or other factors.