Counselor I

Summary or Purpose

Provide a variety of entry-level behavioral healthcare counseling services within scope of authority and according to Borough policies and procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification. Shown are duties intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

Provide paraprofessional care and counseling services to residential and non-residential clients within scope of authority; supervises behavior and activities of clients; maintains strict confidentiality in all client matters.

Carry a caseload of individual clients and client groups who require intervention, counseling and guidance.

Provide case management services to Behavioral Health clients, families and significant others.

Provide personal and group therapy and counseling; acts as an advocate for individual clients.

Teach socialization and coping skills; advises clients of community resources.

Monitor clients, de-escalates client behavior, follows established safety protocols, initiates intervention services as needed, and calls for assistance as required.

Confer and consult with supervisors as needed; collaborates with other professionals to provide and advocate for continued care outside the limitations of the program.

Maintain professional composure and effectiveness.

Update and maintain a variety of client records; documents activities as required.

Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly facility in accordance with Department and OSHA regulations; performs housekeeping functions as directed, including meal preparation, cleaning and laundry.

In the event of an emergency, will follow responsibilities as outlined in the North Slope Borough and program policies and procedures and the CEMP manual.

Respect clients by recognizing their rights and maintaining confidentiality, including HIPAA requirements.

Protect self, co-workers and consumers by following policies and procedures to prevent the spread of blood borne and/or airborne diseases.

Travel to the villages within the North Slope Borough.

May be required to work a non-traditional work schedule to include evening, holidays and weekends and may be subject to 24 hour on-call status.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of Department and Borough policies and procedures.

Knowledge of local community resources and various community services programs.

Knowledge of counseling and case management techniques and procedures.

Skill in providing effective patient care services.

Skill in assessing Behavioral health problems, and making recommendations based on observations and interviews.

Education, Experience, Certifications and Licenses Required

High school graduate or G.E.D./ or, a combination of 12 years of education and related work experience;

One year of counseling experience;

Must be 21 years of age or older;

Applicant must pass a criminal history background check conducted by the State of Alaska Background Check Unit;

Must have at least one-year separation from receiving services for substance abuse or domestic violence;

Documentation that the individual is free from active pulmonary tuberculosis;

Ability to obtain a valid Alaska driver's license that meets North Slope Borough insurance criteria within the probationary period;

Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid Certification within 30 days of hire; and have the ability to lift 35 to 50 pounds regularly.

THE NORTH SLOPE BOROUGH IS AN ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE WORKPLACE.

This Job Description reflects North Slope Borough's best effort to describe the essential functions and qualifications of the job described. It is not an exhaustive statement of all the duties, responsibilities or qualifications of the job. This document is not intended to exclude an opportunity for modifications consistent with providing reasonable accommodation. This is not intended to be a contract.

The North Slope Borough offers the following benefit packages to all permanent full time and permanent part time employees who work at least 15 hours a week.

Health care is provided at no cost to the employee (no premiums). Our Health Care package covers major medical, preventive care, vision, dental and prescription drug benefits.

Benefits do not apply to temporary employees.