Job Details

RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the supervision of an Assistant Director or the Program Director, the Counselor provides support and assistance to clients at one of the Progress programs, housed in multi-level facilities. The Counselor's primary responsibility is advocating for and responding to the treatment and rehabilitation needs of clients. Specific functions include:

I. Essential Functions

1. Conduct intake interviews with prospective clients.
2. Orient new clients to the program and facility, or enable another client to do so.
3. Respond to psychiatric and medical emergencies professionally and promptly, including crisis intervention.
4. Assist in evacuations during emergencies such as fire or earthquakes.
5. Develop and support treatment plans with client participation.
6. Communicate with referral sources and treatment personnel regarding client treatment.
7. Complete intake and discharge paperwork, and maintain client progress records.
8. Participate in discharge planning for smooth client transitions.
9. Lead or co-lead group sessions and house meetings.
10. Manage primary case responsibilities for clients.
11. Relay clinical and house-status information during shift changes and meetings.
12. Monitor and record medication administration.
13. Participate in meal planning and preparation, encouraging client involvement.
14. Attend staff meetings, supervision, and case consultations.
15. Consult with supervisors on case reviews, medications, and group dynamics.
16. Maintain the physical plant, report maintenance issues, and perform minor cleaning or repairs.
17. Report suspected client abuse to appropriate agencies, following policies and law.
18. Promote social rehabilitation philosophy among staff and clients.
19. Work overnight, awake and alert shifts.
20. Comply with all laws, regulations, policies, and ethical standards.
21. Perform other duties as assigned and report personal circumstances affecting job performance.

Functions for Persons with Disabilities

• Lead or participate in outings and recreational activities.
• Shop for groceries and household items with clients.
• Drive clients to treatment-related destinations.
• Attend programmatic and administrative meetings as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in a mental health-related field or relevant experience.
• Experience in residential treatment or social rehabilitation preferred.
• At least one year in a community mental health setting preferred.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
• Good judgment and emotional stability.
• Ability to negotiate stairs and lift/carry 20 lbs.
• Valid clearance with the California State Department of Social Services.
• Training certification in First Aid and CPR.
• Basic word processing skills required.