School Based Counselor

Position Title: School Based Counselor

Department: Counseling Services (CS)

Reports to: Program Supervisor/Clinical Director

Position Objective and Summary:

The School-Based Counselor provides direct mental health services to students in a school setting and is responsible for individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and prevention programs. The role includes work with students' families and may extend to off-site sessions when school is not in session. The counselor will collaborate with school staff, families, and the community to create a comprehensive support system for students' emotional, behavioral, and social well-being. IM-CAT/IM-CANs certification is required for this role.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Provide Individual and Group Counseling: Offer counseling sessions to students to address emotional, social, or behavioral challenges and support their mental well-being and academic performance.
• Family and Community Engagement: When school is not in session, engage with families for individual and family counseling, provide community support services, and participate in case consultation and collateral sessions as needed.
• Crisis Intervention: Respond to mental health crises, providing immediate support and stabilization. Facilitate appropriate referrals for further care.
• Develop Treatment Plans: Conduct assessments to determine mental health needs and develop treatment plans, including individual and family therapy goals.
• Psychoeducation and Prevention Programs: Lead workshops and other prevention programs to promote mental health awareness among students, teachers, and families.
• Collaboration and Consultation: Work closely with school staff, administrators, and families to coordinate care and ensure the emotional and behavioral needs of students are met.
• Outreach and Counseling Outside School: Although primarily school-based, the counselor may provide services to students and families outside the school setting when necessary.
• Compliance and Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation and case notes, ensuring all reports adhere to ethical, legal, and regulatory standards.
• Other Duties as Assigned: Assist with additional tasks and responsibilities as directed by the supervisor or program leadership to support the overall functioning of the department and the organization.

Education/Job Experience/Certification:

• Master’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related field.
• Licensure as an LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC, or equivalent in the state is preferred.
• IM-CAT/IM-CANs certification is required or must be obtained within 60 days of hire.
• 2 years of experience providing mental health services, preferably in a school-based or child-focused setting.
• Strong therapeutic skills, familiarity with trauma-informed care practices, and ability to collaborate with diverse populations. Experience working with families is a plus.

Special Knowledge and Qualifications:

• Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrates understanding of students’ and families' emotional needs.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Capable of working in various environments and adjusting to the unique needs of each setting, including working directly with families.
• Cultural Competence: Experience working with diverse populations and managing sensitive situations with professionalism.

Work Environment: Primarily based in a school environment but may require working with students and families outside of the school setting. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for school events, family sessions, or emergencies. Travel between school sites and family homes may be required.