Youth Shelter Counselor

WHY WORK AT YFA?

We tackle some of the world's toughest problems. Our employees are an incredible group of compassionate, committed individuals, drawn by the opportunity to make a difference. Year over year, our employees report they are proud to work here and are willing to go above and beyond in service of our mission to create a safe, nurturing environment for children.

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc. (YFA) was founded in 1970. Our purpose and role is to serve children and families in crisis, providing programs that encourage healing, restoration, and success for those we serve. This is why “Family” is our middle name Our hardworking 350+ team members work in partnership with communities and families, providing a full range of services across the state of Florida.

No matter the role, we believe every team member at YFA has a critical role in supporting our children and our communities and we constantly strive to ensure a positive, purpose-driven, dynamic work environment for you to learn, grow and meet your fullest potential.

This position is responsible for counseling individuals, groups and\or problematic youth and their families using advanced techniques through individual, group and family therapy under direct supervision of Program Director.

Job duties include but are not limited to:

• Provide counseling and support to truant clients and families for completing education.
• Schedule and conduct client visits at convenient locations.
• Contact individuals with information about specific clients, including teachers.
• Document counseling services, including notes, assessments, and correspondence.
• Conduct group and family counseling sessions.
• Advocate for clients in Truancy Arbitration and court processes.
• Stay updated on laws and agency guidelines.
• Handle crisis calls from clients and others.
• Participate in meetings and work sessions related to service provision.
• Provide input on program changes and enhancements.
• Conduct community outreach programs.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and on-call duties.
• Organize recreational activities and field trips for residents under supervision.

Education & Experience: Master's Degree; 0-3 years post master's clinical\counseling experience or bachelor's degree; 4+ years post Bachelors experience directly in human services, preferably in counseling.

Physical Requirements: Ability to travel regionally on a regular basis and statewide as needed; Ability to bend, lift and carry 30 pounds.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

• 14 Days of PTO, incrementally increasing annually
• 13 Paid holidays
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Immediate eligibility for 403b Savings Plan with match after 12 months
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Paid Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Services
• ID Monitoring
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities

And of course, an opportunity to make the world a better place

Location: 1060 US Hwy 17, Bartow, FL 33830

Youth and Family Alternatives is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We adhere to the principles of affirmative action and strictly prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on these protected characteristics.

Youth and Family Alternatives complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, training, working conditions, compensation, benefits, and other privileges of employment.