Position Summary:
Responsible for counseling individuals, groups, and/or community youth and their families using advanced techniques through individual, group, and family therapy. Work is performed under direct supervision of the Program Director and a licensed clinician.
In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required training, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.
Essential Functions:
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Conduct assessments, prepare treatment plans and psycho-social evaluations to meet clinical contract and regulatory compliance goals.
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Provide counseling and support services to youth, assisting them in completing their education and developing appropriate pro-social behaviors.
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Determine eligibility, complete intake, assessment, evaluation, referral, transportation, monitor school attendance, and provide case management.
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Conduct group counseling sessions.
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Schedule and conduct client sessions at locations convenient for the client.
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Maintain regular contact with individuals who have information about or an interest in specific clients.
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Stay in communication with assigned schools that initiate truancy/ungovernable referrals.
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Meet assigned productivity requirements to comply with contract deliverables.
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Complete documentation related to counseling services, including contact notes, assessments, testing, screening, intake forms, interview notes, correspondence, and statistics.
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Advocate for clients by staffing cases in the Truancy Arbitration process and initiating CINS/FINS petitions to the court.
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Represent YFA and/or the child in court proceedings.
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Stay up to date on laws, DCF, DJJ, and other agency guidelines related to eligibility, counseling services, and required actions.
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Complete client follow-ups according to established guidelines.
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Participate in meetings and work sessions related to service provision, including programmatic supervision, individual supervision, and inter-program supervision.
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Provide input on program and service enhancements; contribute to the design or redesign of programs.
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Attend and actively participate in staff meetings.
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Complete all required training.
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Perform other tasks as assigned to ensure clients receive necessary services and administrative tasks are completed.
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Foster a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues, ensuring emotional and physical security without re-traumatization.
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Follow a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individuals’ needs and experiences.
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Practice self-care and seek support as needed to prevent burnout while providing trauma-informed care.
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Adhere to agency policies and procedures.
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Uphold the core values and mission statement of YFA.
Education & Experience:
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Master's degree in social work, mental health, psychology, or other human services degree and 0-3 years’ post-master’s degree clinical/counseling experience.
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Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals.
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Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic stories and situations and communicate a sense of trust and safety. Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well-being.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
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Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
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Communicate and maintain working relationships with internal and external contacts.
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Ability to facilitate large/small groups and navigate varied group dynamics.
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Ability to work cooperatively in a group/team setting.
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Ability to take guidance and direction from supervisors.
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Ability to complete accurate and complete documentation in a timely manner.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites.
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Skilled in actively listening to concerns, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves without judgment or blame.