Residential Counselor

Residential Counselor

Villa of Hope helps clients and families rebuild relationships, recover from trauma and renew Hope for their future. 

JOB TITLE: Residential Counselor 

POSITION GRADE: 73 15.50-18.00 Commensurate with education and experience

FLSA STATUS:  Non-Exempt                

DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM: HOPE Recovery Men’s Community Residence 

SUPERVISOR: Program Manager                              

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Program Manager, the Residential Counselor (RC) provides quality care and support for clients within the Residential Addiction Treatment Program, helping to carry out the treatment plan designed for each client. The RC carries out all job responsibilities with fidelity and accountability to the Agency’s Mission, Vision, Values, Guiding Principles and Strategic Plan. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Exercises full compliance with the Agency’s Code of Conduct, all agency policies and procedures, and federal and state laws and regulations.
• Understands and maintains client to staff ratio including remaining on shift until relief staff arrive and a shift debrief is completed.
• Supports and participates in the cleanliness and upkeep of the residence and reports needed repairs to the Program Manager.
• Supervise residents in managing their medications and adhere to medication policies and procedures. 
• Responsible for establishing and maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment while adhering to all safety standards, state regulations, agency policies, and Sanctuary and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) models.
• Conducts premises searches to ensure the safety and security of the residence, staff and residents.
• Leads and participates in scheduled recreation and leisure time activities.
• Transports clients to off-campus activities (i.e. outpatient/medical appointments or other treatment-related visits) as needed.
• Supports clients in bedtime and morning routines.
• Fulfills all legal requirements as a Mandated Reporter under NYS law and professional ethical standards.
• Maintains confidentiality and security for all client and staff related materials and/or records.
• Works closely with treatment team in constructing and maintaining treatment and individual crisis support plans for individual clients and for group.
• Builds positive relationships with clients based on respect, trust and effective communication.
• Models professional attendance standards, including punctuality to work, meetings, trainings, etc.
• Documents in the client record on daily basis to ensure effective communication to the treatment team.
• Participates in treatment process by attending team meetings, facilitating groups and maintaining clear and timely documentation regarding client treatment. 

OTHER RESPONSIBLITIES:

• Upholds established policies and procedures and makes suggestions for improvement as needed.
• Necessary stamina and temperament to work with clients who have significant substance abuse histories.
• Demonstrates, promotes, and practices cultural competency towards clients, families and staff with respect and understanding achieved through training and agency cultural activities.
• Performs other responsibilities as designated by the program leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of a High School Diploma or GED required
• At least one year of experience working within the human services field required. Experience working in behavioral health preferred.
• First Aid, CPR & AED Certification preferred (Agency will provide) 
• Valid NYS driver’s license in good standing

SPECIAL SKILLS:

• Ability to think critically and make decisions during crisis situations
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality
• Ability to work in fast-paced environment 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The following lists physical demands an employee will perform on a regular basis: standing, walking, sitting, bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling and climbing.

Must be able to perform a variety of household tasks, climb stairs, move throughout the cottage or group home, work cooperatively in a team environment and quickly respond to emergencies. 

This position requires successful completion of Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training, which includes a written test and LSI demonstration.  Staff must successfully complete all required TCI refreshers in order to maintain continued employment. 

Additionally, this position further requires successful completion and maintenance of TCI Associate Level Certification either at time of, or within the first year employment. 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully complete Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Training: the ability to drop repeatedly to knees, twist and turn, exert oneself physically at an intense level, and support another adult’s weight. Position also requires employee to transport clients utilizing an agency vehicle.

COMPTENCIES:

          Leading Self

• Character and Courage (Integrity and Trust)

          Leading Others

• Customer Focus

          Leading the Organization

• Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Justice and Equity