Counselor, Senior

Tohono O•Sells, AZ

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Counselor works under general supervision to counsel clients and individuals in group sessions, helping them overcome dependencies, adjust to life, and make changes. The role also assists clients with personal, family, educational, and career decisions and problems. Work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional checks during the process, for accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with established standards. Major tasks are guided by instructions or procedures, and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor. The position is located in Sells, Arizona. The Counselor supports children, adults, and families through treatment, crisis response, community programs, and referrals. The role conducts intakes and assessments, develops and adjusts treatment plans, coordinates services with clients and other parties, and evaluates progress. It also maintains confidential records, follows HIPAA requirements, and contributes to team efforts and professional development.

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 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 DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria.
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 assess client needs and demonstrate sensitivity to community issues and concerns.
Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
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, work extended hours, and accommodate various work schedules.
Upon recommendation for hire, pass a criminal background check and National FBI check, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record review.
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 to operate program vehicles, meet the Tohono O’odham Nation tribal employer’s insurance requirements for a driver’s permit.
Depending on department needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both Tohono O’odham and English as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

Help organize, develop, and deliver programs supporting children, adults, and families as they cope with problems.
Conduct client intakes and orient new clients.
Develop, assess, and implement treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge.
Collaborate with staff on clinical assessments and treatment plans.
Advocate for clients to coordinate services or resolve emergencies in crisis situations.
Respond to emergencies, including suicides, natural disasters, and mental health or substance abuse crises, on weekends and/or holidays.
Evaluate clients’ physical or mental conditions by reviewing 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 clients’ progress toward resolving problems and meeting objectives.
Plan, organize, and lead structured counseling, work, study, recreation, and social activities for clients.
Modify treatment activities and approaches to reflect 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 could support therapy.
Plan and conduct programs to prevent substance abuse or improve community health and counseling services.
Conduct training and provide workshops and courses on mental health issues.
Attend scheduled meetings with staff, social service entities, and Social Security to discuss client needs.
Maintain confidential treatment records and comply with HIPAA confidentiality and privacy requirements.
Maintain professional and technical knowledge through seminars, workshops, classes, conferences, publications, professional networks, societies, and consultation with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned and contribute to a team effort.