PPS Social Work Counselor - TEMPORARY

Job Title: Social Work Counselor

(California Pupil Personnel Services Credential with School Social Work authorization)

Description:

Under the direction of the site principal, the school based Social Work Counselor is responsible for providing school-based mental health services to all students. The Social Work Counselor shall work with teachers and staff to support successful student classroom participation. This position requires specialized subject matter expertise in mental health counseling, threat assessments and behavior modification. The counselor shall perform other related functions as required and assist the general counseling department when available.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

This position classification requires knowledge, experience, and skill in the areas of mental health counseling, threat assessment, behavior interventions and crisis response. The position requires decision-making and problem-solving with an understanding of local, state, and federal laws and mandates. The Social Work Counselor meets with students, parents, school administration, teachers, and other staff. Positive Behavior Support programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, and realize academic potential.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF POSITION:

• Provides direct counseling services for individuals and groups of students at school sites on a regular basis, and as needed

• Guide student in the development of skills and strategies for dealing with their problems

• Participates in staff development for school site teachers, DIS providers and Instructional Assistants

• Participates in crisis response team as needed

• Facilitates social skills and self-regulatory student groups

• Prepare and maintain all required treatment records and reports

• Assists teachers in developing and implementing behavior interventions

• Makes home visits, as appropriate

• Meet with families, probation officers, police, and other interested parties in order to exchange necessary information during the treatment process

• Refer students or family members to community resources or to specialists as necessary

• Evaluate the effectiveness of counseling programs and clients' progress in resolving identified problems and moving towards defined objectives

• Modify treatment activities and approaches as needed in order to comply with changes in student’s status

• Gather information about community mental health needs and resources that could be used in conjunction with therapy

• Maintain confidentiality of records relating to student’s treatment

• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

• Current counseling programs including TCI Training and Crisis Response training, PBIS, MTSS, etc.

• Threat assessments, and experience in performing such assessments

• Social skills and self-regulated curriculum

• Counseling practices and techniques for children

Skills/Abilities:

• Significant, directly-related and progressive experience as a counselor, including working with children

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with programs such as TCI training and Crisis Response training

• Ability to work collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams

• Communicate effectively, in oral and written form, with staff, students, and parents

• Lead social skills and self-regulated groups

• Utilize technology effectively, using word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:

Must possess a strong knowledge of the common diagnoses and treatments for school-aged children and possess the skills necessary to facilitate positive change in a school environment.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• A master’s degree from an accredited university or college in the field of psychology, social work, counseling education or human services field

• Licensed in the State of California to provide mental health services (LMFT or LCSW) Prefered.

• California Pupil Personnel Services Credential with School Social Work authorization