What are the responsibilities and job description for the Day Services Counselor position at Mental Health Association - Western MA?
MHA’s Resource Center provides day support services to individuals living with brain injuries. The Day Service Counselor plays a vital role in providing personal care, facilitating activities and group sessions, and supporting individuals in their daily participation. This role may involve leading group activities independently or assisting individuals in their engagement with various programs.
Working closely with the Day Services Coordinator, the Day Services Counselor helps assess the needs of members and implements diverse programming that evolves based on participant interests and needs. A key principle of the Resource Center is choice, ensuring that activities remain dynamic and engaging. Candidates are encouraged to bring their own passions and interests to the role, enriching the experiences of those they serve.
Community integration is another core value of the Resource Center, requiring employees to assist individuals with mobility challenges, including transporting those who use wheelchairs. The goal is to create opportunities that foster independence and enhance the quality of life for all participants. A successful candidate will be committed to this mission while upholding MHA’s core values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion.
Schedule: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PMRequired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, prioritize tasks, and maintain organization.
- Passion for assisting individuals in increasing their independence.
- Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and compassion.
- Adaptability to meet the changing needs of program members.
- Problem-solving skills with a creative and solution-oriented mindset.
- Dependability and a history of good attendance.
- Willingness to complete required training, including MAP curriculum, CPR/FA certification, and ANV training (all provided by MHA).
- Professional and respectful communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license, sufficient automobile insurance, and an acceptable driving record.
- Must be at least 21 years old.
Required Education and Experience
- Minimum of two years' experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred).
- High school diploma or GED (preferred).
- Experience with personal care, Hoyer lifts, wheelchair tie-downs, gait belts, and other mobility equipment (strongly preferred).
- Knowledge of protocols for dining, falls & mobility, seizures, and diabetes management (preferred).
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with mobile applications (a plus).
- Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
Physical Demands
This role requires the ability to talk and hear frequently. Employees must be able to sit for extended periods, use their hands for various tasks, and occasionally kneel, climb stairs, and lift up to 40 pounds. Vision requirements include color distinction, visual inspection, visual perception, and eye/hand coordination. The majority of work takes place indoors, though employees may occasionally be exposed to inclement weather while assisting individuals. The work environment is typically quiet to moderate noise level.
Conclusion
This job description provides an overview of the responsibilities and expectations for the Day Services Counselor position. It is not an exhaustive list of duties, qualifications, or working conditions but serves to outline the general nature of the role.
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Long Term Disability