Lead Counselor Technician

Position Summary:

The Lead Counselor Technician supervises and provides daily support to assigned program participants. This position serves as a junior member of the programs leadership team and supervises designated Counselor Technicians. Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

Essential Job Functions:

• Supervises designated Counselor Technicians under the guidance of the Program Director or designee;
• Helps the Program Coordinator in the creation and establishment of work schedules for assigned Counselor Technicians;
• Supervises program participants under the direction of the Program Director or designee, reporting unusual changes as they occur;
• Facilitates mentoring, discipline, safety, and observation of participants;
• Utilizes approved crisis intervention techniques to assist with de-escalation of situations, ensuring program participant, staff, and visitor safety;
• Implements the behavioral/level system where applicable;
• Assists with the initial assessment and receiving of new program participants;
• Participates in 24/7 coverage by working a flexible schedule, properly tracking hours worked, and consistently arriving to scheduled shifts on time;
• Transports participants to school or medical appointments as required (if authorized);
• Monitors participant whereabouts to be sure they remain on WestCare property, or have appropriate paperwork needed to leave WestCare property;
• Assists in the implementation of recreational activities for program participants, participating where appropriate;
• Ensures the facility is kept clean and in working order;
• Ensures program participant medication is processed upon admission and given on time, in accordance with WestCare procedures;
• Embraces and embodies the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation;
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

Certifications/Licensures:

• Relevant certification and/or licensure is preferred; preference will be given to certified candidates;
• Valid drivers license and the ability to obtain and maintain WestCares vehicle insurance is required.

Education:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a degree in Counseling, Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology or other field related to the position is preferred;
• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

Experience and Competencies:

• Two (2) years experience in a comparable position is required;
• Three (3) or more years working in a behavioral health environment is preferred;
• Experience working with individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health disorders preferred;
• Ability to form and maintain effective, professional, and positive relationships with staff, volunteers, and program participants required;
• Ability to work well, both individually and as part of a team required;
• Adherence to the highest standards of ethical conduct required;
• Ability to exercise good judgement and discretion required;
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor required;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required;
• Experience leading, supervising, and motivating a team is preferred;

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in an office or residential treatment setting;
• Occasional outdoor work and travel between multiple locations may be required;
• Regular and prompt attendance is required throughout employment;