Counselor, Senior

Tohono O'odham Nation•Sells, AZ

18h

About The Position

The Senior Counselor works under general supervision to counsel clients individually and in group sessions, helping them overcome dependencies, adjust to life, and make changes. The position assists clients with personal, family, educational, and career decisions and problems. Work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional in-process spot checks; unusual situations are referred to a supervisor. The role supports children, adults, and families through counseling, treatment planning, crisis response, referrals, community programs, and coordination with staff and outside parties. It also maintains confidential client records and complies with HIPAA privacy requirements. The position is located in Sells, Arizona, and may involve responding to emergencies on weekends and holidays, as well as extended hours and varied work schedules.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Counseling or a closely related field and two years of work experience in a behavioral health-related field, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties.
Certifications in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid.
Knowledge of Tohono O’odham culture, customs, and traditions.
Knowledge of the 12-step program.
Knowledge of the economic, educational, health, and social problems of Native Americans.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and tribal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Knowledge of records management procedures and HIPAA rules and regulations.
Knowledge of counseling and intervention techniques and the Diagnostic Criteria DSM-IV-TR.
Skill in conducting interviews and individual and group therapy sessions with empathy and enthusiasm.
Skill in analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations.
Skill in providing superior customer service to internal and external customers.
Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
Ability to assess client needs and demonstrate sensitivity to community issues and concerns.
Ability to treat staff and patients with respect and communicate in a friendly, empathetic manner.
Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively, verbally and in writing.
Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
Ability to work independently, meet strict timelines, and work extended hours and varied schedules.
Upon recommendation for hire, successfully complete a criminal background check and National FBI check, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
May be required to possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, with no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years.
If required, meet the Tohono O’odham Nation tribal employer’s insurance requirements to receive a driver’s permit to operate program vehicles.
Depending on department needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both Tohono O’odham and English as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

Assist with organizing and developing programs for children, adults, and families to help them cope with problems.
Conduct intakes and orient new clients.
Develop, assess, and implement treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge.
Collaborate with staff to conduct clinical assessments and develop treatment plans.
Advocate for clients by coordinating required services or resolving emergency problems in crisis situations.
Respond to emergencies, including suicides, natural disasters, mental health crises, and substance abuse situations, on weekends and/or holidays.
Evaluate clients’ physical or mental condition based on reviews of client information.
Meet with families, probation officers, police, and other interested parties to exchange information during treatment.
Refer patients, clients, or family members to community resources as necessary.
Evaluate counseling programs and client progress toward resolving identified problems and meeting objectives.
Plan, organize, and lead structured counseling, work, study, recreation, and social activities for clients.
Modify treatment activities and approaches as needed to address changes in clients’ status.
Discuss plans for life after therapy with individual patients.
Evaluate clients and arrange phone interviews for residential treatment.
Provide one-to-one counseling in emergency rooms and detention facilities.
Gather information about community mental health needs and resources that may support therapy.
Plan and conduct programs to prevent substance abuse or improve community health and counseling services.
Conduct training and provide workshops and courses about mental health issues.
Attend scheduled meetings with staff, social service entities, and Social Security to discuss client needs.
Maintain confidentiality of client treatment records and comply with HIPAA confidentiality and privacy rules.
Maintain professional and technical knowledge through continuing education, publications, professional networks, societies, and consultation with contracting agencies and related organizations.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned and contribute to a team effort.