Town of Dedham
Dedham, MA
Title : Youth Service Counselor
Education and Experience
- Masters in counseling, clinical psychology or social work
- Minimum of six years of clinical experience in counseling / human services is required
- Clinical work with youth and families is preferred
- Prior experience in training and supervision is required
- Highest level of licensure in a counseling discipline (i.e., LICSW, LMHC, Psy.D.) by the Commonwealth of MA or working to obtain it is required
- Valid motor vehicle operator's license
- Must receive an acceptable CORI / SORI report
- Must receive an acceptable fingerprint report
Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Possess the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver professional counseling and administrative work in providing social services to residents, and to assist in the administration of service programsStrong crisis intervention skillsProficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, financial software and willing to learn new software programs as neededPossess a thorough knowledge of and familiarity with modern office equipment, technology, electronic equipment, and software applications and operationsA high degree of organizational skills, time management and attention to detailsHigh level of professionalism and the ability to maintain confidentialityAbility to prioritize, multi-task, and handle diverse tasksAbility to understand written procedures, and understand complex, multi-step written and oral instructionsAbility to work independently and as part of a team requiredAbility to take initiative, exercise sound judgment and make decisions within scope of their authorityAbility to work independently with minimum supervisionAvailable to work a flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekendsAbility to maintain active certification in C.P.R., A.E.D. and first aidSupervised by : Works under the general administrative direction of the Youth Commission Director and in accordance with applicable provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws. Employee functions independently, referring specific problems to supervisor when clarification or interpretation of policies or procedures is required.
Job Goal : Supports and advocates for children and families in the community by providing clinical and supportive services designed to foster the healthy growth of children ages 4 up to23.
Salary / Benefits : According to the AFSCME Town Hall bargaining unit contract
Essential Functions of the Job :
Provides all direct counseling services to residents, as well as counseling to individuals, families and groups for a variety of personal and interpersonal problemsResponds to all mental health crisis situations accordingly and acts as a liaison between clients and various agencies, institutions, and providers; responds to all clinical inquiries to departmentConducts all clinical intakes and assesses for assignment or referral to outside resources.Collaborates with the Dedham School Department and provides trainings and individual, family, and group counseling services as neededServes as a member of the Crisis Management Team for school-based emergenciesCoordinates and oversees all clinical and counseling efforts for the department and provides clinical supervision to graduate interns and supervises volunteers and internsCollaborates with the Youth Commission Director to research and apply for local, state and federal grants and other funding sourcesRoutinely addresses the socioemotional needs of children 4 and up to 23 years old and their families by coordinating efforts with town and school department and committees, local organizations, government agencies, and the publicResponsible for planning, managing and overseeing appropriate department program and group-counseling servicesCreates and facilitates all mental health classes and workshops for Dedham Youth Commission programming during the school year and summer monthsWorks with team to hire and train high school interns for programs offered by the Youth CommissionMaintains appropriate and confidential departmental and program records in accordance with federal and state regulationsRepresents the department as a member and leader of various community groups, including interdisciplinary school and municipal meetingsCollaborates and networks with staff from area youth commissions creating bi-monthly trainings, case presentations and other learning opportunities; attends professional seminars and workshopsIn the absence of the Director directs the daily operation of the departmentIn the absence of the Director acts as emergency contact for the Youth Commission BoardPerforms similar or related work as required or as situation dictates.Job Environment / Physical and Mental Demands :
The employee may spend a portion of the workday in the field and is frequently required to walk, stand, climb, stoop, bend, reach, pull, push, lift, hike, speak and hear or be able to communicate. The employee operates standard office equipment, including a computer, calculator, telephone, copy machine, fax machine and postal equipment. Ability to view computer screens and work with details for extended periods. Operates an automobile when providing services to youths and families at various locations. Ability to view computer screens and work with details for extended periods. The employee may be required to lift and / or move up to 50 pounds. Analytical, listening, critical thinking skills, and attention to detail abilities needed to interpret and manage many details with a high level of responsibility. May be requested to work outside of normal business hours including evenings or weekends. The employee is subject to mental and emotional situations that require mental resilience.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
