Direct Care Counselor - TASP Program

WALKER INC•Orono, MN

36d•$19 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

As a Direct Care Counselor in Walker’s Therapeutic After School Program (TASP), you will work with Department of Mental Health-enrolled youth, aged 6-13, in need of therapeutic, educational and recreational programming that supports youths’ social-emotional development and skill‑building. Organize and facilitate activities and groups that are youth-guided, family-driven, and culturally competent, and support the ongoing operations of a structured, therapeutic milieu.

Requirements

Valid Massachusetts driver’s license and reliable transportation required, including the ability to travel to community-based meetings and to transport clients and families to appointments, trainings, groups, and other program-related activities.
Proof of auto insurance that demonstrates coverage levels that meet the organization’s minimum requirements.
Must have the ability to access different community locations for meetings including regularly attending meetings and trainings at Walker’s Needham location.
Ability to meet deadlines and follow through with multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to respond to and follow through with requests professionally.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Must be able to sit at work station for prolonged periods of time, consistent with OSHA requirements.
Ability to perform required function of Medication Administration Program (MAP) and must pass and maintain MAP certification.
Ability to perform required functions of Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) and must pass and maintain TCI certification.
Ability to pass and maintain First Aid/CPR certification.
Physical stamina to participate in activities with children
Ability to stand, walk, and run for extended periods, perform frequent bending, stooping, stretching, lifting (up to 10 lbs.), sitting, stairs, typing, and looking at a computer screen
Strong written and verbal communication skills and computer experience is required
High School diploma or GED required
MAP Certification (must complete within 90 days of start date if not currently certified)
Obtain Elementary Education and Care (EEC) background check suitability
Must have reliable transportation
Valid MA driver’s license preferred

Nice To Haves

Supervisory experience in a residential setting preferred
1-3 years of previous experience working in a similar setting preferred
Bachelors Degree in related field

Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with the Walker TASP Program Director and Clinician to develop and implement therapeutic, educational, recreational, and developmentally appropriate programming for enrolled youth.
Review and integrate youth’s Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and Individual Action Plans (IAPs) to ensure all programming supports youths’ identified goals.
Design, plan, and facilitate daily activities and group sessions (up to 8 youth), along with occasional family events, snacks, and special programming.
Provide supportive counseling and coping/stress‑reduction skill development and assist students in applying these strategies throughout program hours.
Document youth attendance, participation, and progress in both Walker’s electronic health record, as required.
Maintain communication with families regarding youth attendance, participation, progress, and any concerns that arise.
Transport youth safely to and from the after‑school program using a program van or personal vehicle.
Participate in supervision and staff meetings according to schedule and expectations.
Ensure high‑quality programming and youth support.
Additional duties as assigned.