Counselor in Pasco County

**Position Summary:** Responsible for counseling individuals, groups, and/or community youth and their families using advanced techniques through individual, group, and family therapy. Work is performed under direct supervision of the Program Director and a licensed clinician. In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required training, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all. **Essential Functions:** - Conduct assessments, prepare treatment plans and psycho-social evaluations to meet clinical contract and regulatory compliance goals. - Provide counseling and support services to youth, assisting them in completing their education and developing appropriate pro-social behaviors. - Determine eligibility, complete intake, assessment, evaluation, referral, transportation, monitor school attendance, and provide case management. - Conduct group counseling sessions. - Schedule and conduct client sessions at locations convenient for the client. - Maintain regular contact with individuals who have information about or an interest in specific clients. - Stay in communication with assigned schools that initiate truancy/ungovernable referrals. - Meet assigned productivity requirements to comply with contract deliverables. - Complete documentation related to counseling services, including contact notes, assessments, testing, screening, intake forms, interview notes, correspondence, and statistics. - Advocate for clients by staffing cases in the Truancy Arbitration process and initiating CINS/FINS petitions to the court. - Represent YFA and/or the child in court proceedings. - Stay up to date on laws, DCF, DJJ, and other agency guidelines related to eligibility, counseling services, and required actions. - Complete client follow-ups according to established guidelines. - Participate in meetings and work sessions related to service provision, including programmatic supervision, individual supervision, and inter-program supervision. - Provide input on program and service enhancements; contribute to the design or redesign of programs. - Attend and actively participate in staff meetings. - Complete all required training. - Perform other tasks as assigned to ensure clients receive necessary services and administrative tasks are completed. - Foster a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues, ensuring emotional and physical security without re-traumatization. - Follow a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individuals’ needs and experiences. - Practice self-care and seek support as needed to prevent burnout while providing trauma-informed care. - Adhere to agency policies and procedures. - Uphold the core values and mission statement of YFA. **Education & Experience:** - Master's degree in social work, mental health, psychology, or other human services degree and 0-3 years’ post-master’s degree clinical/counseling experience. - Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals. - Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic stories and situations and communicate a sense of trust and safety. Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well-being. **Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):** - Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. - Communicate and maintain working relationships with internal and external contacts. - Ability to facilitate large/small groups and navigate varied group dynamics. -…