CBT Counselor (Temporary)

Westcare Illinois•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The CBT Counselor is responsible for providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group sessions and supporting clients through counseling, case management, education, outreach, and referrals. The role helps maintain program standards and client treatment records, coordinates therapeutic and ancillary services, and works with referring agencies and the criminal justice system when necessary. The employee is expected to uphold WestCare Foundation’s mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals. Work is primarily performed in a professional setting. The role involves working with clients and colleagues, sometimes under stress or in emotionally charged situations, and may involve exposure or potential exposure to human blood, body fluids, or tissues; personal protective equipment will be available. Physical requirements include standing and walking on even or uneven surfaces, sitting for extended periods, bending, twisting, reaching, balancing, and occasionally lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds. Use of computers and telephones, clear communication, and the ability to observe client behavior are required. The employee must be able to use approved verbal and mental/verbal de-escalation techniques to defend themselves and clients in abusive situations.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Experience with cognitive behavioral therapy curriculum.
Knowledge of the criminal justice system.
Strong organization, attention to detail, and time-management skills.
Strong computer skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to pass a background check.
Ability to obtain and maintain OIG LEIE clearance.
Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion.
Ability to work well in a team environment.
Adherence to the highest standards of ethical conduct, especially confidentiality standards.
Professional appearance and demeanor.
Ability to obtain and maintain CPR certification, first aid certification, and an annual tuberculosis test.
Ability to perform required physical and communication activities, including occasional lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, with or without accommodation.
Ability to work under stress and in emotionally charged settings and to use approved de-escalation techniques.

Nice To Haves

Master’s or bachelor’s degree preferred.
Bilingual ability preferred.

Responsibilities

Monitor adherence to program policies and procedures.
Facilitate CBT groups and family groups, and assist program clients.
Provide individual and group counseling, case management, education, community outreach, and referrals to appropriate services and community resources.
Maintain relationships with referring and supporting agencies and represent the agency at community meetings as requested.
Help facilitate ancillary services, including family support and education groups, continuing care, community-agency networking, and development and updating of referral and resource information.
Supervise maintenance of individual client treatment files in accordance with agency policies and procedures, including documentation of vocational and educational activities and other pertinent information.
Provide general client supervision, including planning and scheduling therapeutic activities.
Prepare client progress reports when necessary.
Interact with the criminal justice system and/or referral sources when necessary.
Embrace and embody WestCare Foundation’s mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals.
Perform other duties as assigned.