Critical Time Intervention (CTI) Counselor - $6000 Sign On Bonus

Jewish Family Service•Buffalo, NY

4d•$58,000 - $63,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Critical Time Intervention Supportive Counselor is responsible for providing intensive, short-term support to individuals in critical transitions, such as moving from a hospital, shelter, or incarceration into the community. The CTI Supportive Counselor reports to the CTI Manager and will work as part of a multidisciplinary team, including CTI case managers, peers, and other support staff. The counselor will work closely with clients to address emotional, social, and psychological needs while supporting the overall goals of successful community reintegration. This role involves building trusting relationships, fostering coping strategies, and connecting clients with appropriate resources.

Requirements

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Mental Health Counselor, (LMHC), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Applicant must have active New York State licensure.
Minimum of 1-2 years of post-master’s experience in working with clients who have mental health, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and trust with clients.
Ability to provide emotional support, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention in high-stress situations.
Knowledge of mental health, substance use, and housing systems, as well as community-based resources.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Exhibited ability to effectively work within an inclusive and culturally and linguistically diverse environment.
Ability to assess client needs and develop individualized care plans
Familiarity with case management software and documentation systems
Strong internet research and computer skills, especially with Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and web-based health information systems.
English speaking and writing fluency required.

Nice To Haves

Experience with the CTI model or similar time-limited interventions is a plus.
Bilingual skills desirable.

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough assessments of clients’ emotional, psychological, and social needs at the beginning of the transition process.
Provide individualized support to clients based on their unique challenges, including developing coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and adjustment to community living.
Monitor clients' progress and adjust support plans as necessary throughout the intervention period.
Provide immediate emotional support during crises, including de-escalating situations and offering practical problem-solving strategies.
Assist clients in managing emotional distress during the critical transition period, focusing on stabilization and enhancing emotional well-being.
Offer counseling services to help clients address underlying psychological issues that may affect their transition.
Complete necessary documentation for legal, health, and social service purposes, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations (e.g., HIPAA).
Help clients access community-based resources, such as housing, healthcare, employment, social services, and mental health treatment.
Advocate for clients by helping them navigate social service systems, including helping with paperwork, attending meetings, and ensuring they receive the services they need.
Support clients in developing life skills, such as budgeting, time management, and communication, that are necessary for successful community integration.
Empower clients to make decisions regarding their own care, fostering independence and self-sufficiency.
Provide psychoeducation to clients regarding mental health, substance use, coping mechanisms, and self-care.
Work closely with the CTI team (nurses, case managers, social workers, and other healthcare providers) to ensure that each client’s needs are being met.
Participate in regular team meetings to discuss client progress, challenges, and strategies for continued support.
Communicate regularly with other professionals involved in the client’s care to ensure a coordinated, team-based approach.
Promote a welcoming, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment for clients and for the team.
Accurately document all interactions with clients and all efforts made towards client engagement. Submit all progress notes within 48 hours of the client encounter.
Effectively utilize electronic systems including electronic documentation and reporting systems.
Provide education to other members of the Care Coordination Division and other JFS departments on Critical Time Intervention services.
Attend agency and department in-service training and staff meetings as well as any other agency related activities as required.