Safe Haven Weekend Evening Counselor

Position Title: Safe Haven Weekend Evening Counselor

Department: Human Services Department

Supervisor: Manager, Low Threshold Programs

Exemption: Non-Exempt

Date revised: April 2024

Schedule: Friday-Sunday, 2pm-10pm

Job Summary:

Work within a 25 bed, 24/7, low threshold program for homeless Veterans who may not yet be committed to full abstinence or recovery. Work closely with Safe Haven Team, other NECHV programing and VA Program Liaison to ensure highest quality of trauma informed, harm reduction services to meet Veterans needs and goals. This position will also assist in providing coverage and support in other Center Programs/Operations, as needed. This position is considered “essential staff” and may require working during holidays and/or inclement weather.

Responsibilities:

• In collaboration with other program staff and VA Coordinator, work within the low threshold model of service and care, in a 25 bed, 24/7 Transitional Housing program for Veterans diagnosed with mental health and/or substance use disorders.
• Work to maintain safety within the Program, manage crisis situations and intervene with residents when needed and alerted. Work collaboratively with Operation Staff. Respond and follow up with event reports.
• Work with Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed and Person Centered models of care with all program participants.
• Assist with helping all participants as needed as issues arise during the shift.
• Facilitate activities, as needed.
• Communicate and document relevant information about the shift.
• Ensure all data collection and documentation deadlines are adhered to.
• Work collaboratively with other NECHV programs, departments, and the Veterans Administration, maintaining positive relationships.
• Must abide by the professional guidelines set by the Human Services Department.
• Participate in monthly or as needed supervision.
• Perform other duties as needed and as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferred.
• Three to five years’ experience in case management and working with substance use disorders, mental illness and with a diverse population.
• Veteran status a plus.
• LADC or CADC a plus.
• Must be able to understand and work within the low threshold model.

Required Skills:

• Must have knowledge, experience and skills working with Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Trauma Informed and Person Centered models of service.
• Must have knowledge, experience and skills in crisis intervention and de-escalation of potential situations.
• Must have strong communication, including communication via email and phone, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to maintain personal and professional boundaries with colleagues and participants.

Preferred Skills:

• Essential Functions of the Job:
• Must be able to work within the low threshold model of care and maintain positive working relationships with all Center programs and staff, the VA Liaison and other collaborating stakeholders.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work respectfully with a challenging and diverse population.
• Ability to gather and report data for reporting and maintain participant files and records according to standards set for the program.
• Reliability and commitment to show up for scheduled shifts and shifts that have been picked up.