Residential Counselor

Reports to: Program Manager

General Description: Provide coverage in residential program for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. Residential counselors help facilitate residents’ adaptation to community living by providing guidance and hands-on assistance in accordance with a recovery based system of care.

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Monitor and supervise adults in group environment. Provide supportive services, teach independent living skills, and crisis intervention as necessary. Stay up-to-date on all resident issues.
2. Coordinate and supervise residents in self-completion of routine household activities/tasks (e.g. meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, etc.) including completion of assigned chores; provide hands-on assistance and teaching as needed.
3. Provide instruction and guidance in the developing of ADL skills (e.g. budgeting, personal hygiene, nutrition and wellness, social time, etc.).
4. Develop and conduct rehabilitative-oriented groups for residents.
5. For Milbank program: facilitate and cofacilitate groups to fulfill 40 hours per month per client of group and 1:1 work concentrating on intense ADL, social and psychological rehabilitation.
6. Monitor resident’s self-administration of medication.
7. Document significant behavioral observations in Pathways’ Electronic Health Record, prepare written reports as necessary, report all unusual behaviors to social worker and program manager. Document all resident contact and collateral contacts.
8. Encourage resident’s attendance at planned activities (day program, jobs, events, etc.).
9. Conduct and document fire and functional drills, report repairs and replenish household supplies.
10. Participate in staff meetings, in-service trainings, Relias trainings case conferences and other meetings as required.
11. Ensure compliance with all federal, state and municipal regulation pertaining to program operation.
12. Stay up-to-date on all resident issues and be able to assist with appointments and counseling as necessary.
13. Other duties and special projects as assigned.
14. Provide transportation to/from the day program and to appointments as needed.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of basic principles of human development and psychopathology.
2. Ability and interest in teaching, coaching and prompting the development of basic independent living skills.
3. Basic understanding of empathy for the needs of individuals with mental illness
4. Knowledge of basic first aid, crisis intervention, and emergency action principles.
5. Computer skills: knowledge of Microsoft Word, internet, cloud-based applications and tablet-based applications.
6. Ability to document timely and accurately in Electronic Health Record system.
7. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of information.
8. Ability to work 2nd, and/or 3rd shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed. Shifts available: Monday- Friday, 2pm-11pm, Saturday/Sunday, 9am-4pm, 4pm-11pm. Overnights Monday-Sunday 11pm-9am.
9. Interest in collaborating and working in a team environment

Qualifications:

1. 1-2 years’ work experience in the mental health field; associates, bachelor's or master's degree in related field preferred
2. Experience in residential programs a plus.

Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and use of company car during work.

Pay:

Starting at $20/hour commensurate on experience