Counselor - Community Counseling

Youth and Family Advocates•Lakeland, FL

About The Position

WHO IS YFA? We tackle some of the world's toughest problems. Our employees are an incredible group of compassionate, committed individuals, drawn by the opportunity to make a difference. Year over year, our employees report they are proud to work here and are willing to go above and beyond in service of our mission to create a safe, nurturing environment for children. Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc. (YFA) was founded in 1970. Our purpose and role are to serve children and families in crisis, providing programs that encourage healing, restoration, and success for those we serve. This is why “Family” is our middle name! Our hardworking 350+ team members work in partnership with communities and families, providing a full range of services across the state of Florida. No matter the role, we believe every team member at YFA has a critical role in supporting our children and our communities and we constantly strive to ensure a positive, purpose-driven, dynamic work environment for you to learn, grow and meet your fullest potential. Put your talents to use in a culture of care where you can make the world a better place. 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 & 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.

Requirements

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.
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.
Ability to work cooperatively in a group/team setting.
Ability to take guidance and direction from supervisors.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites.
Skilled in actively listening to concerns, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves without judgment or blame.

Responsibilities

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 the agency.