Direct Support Counselor, BOP

Apis Services Inc•Caernarvon Township, PA

92d•$23 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

At Abraxas Youth and Family Services, we are dedicated to improving lives through high-quality services and support. We deliver residential, community-based, and in-home services across child welfare, behavioral health, and substance use treatment. Our employees play a vital role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, confidence, and success while promoting dignity, respect, inclusion, and personal choice. Every day, our team members make a meaningful impact by supporting people in reaching their goals and living their best lives. As a Youth Development Specialist in our Bureau of Prisons Unit, you will provide supervision, guidance, mentoring and direction to at-risk youth.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
At least twenty-one (21) years of age
Must have a valid Driver's License
Physical exams include TB and drug testing.
Must pass both federal and state background checks which screen for crimes including, but not limited to drug related crimes, violent crimes, sexual abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, and repeated misdemeanors.
Satisfactory completion of background screening and applicable pre-employment checks, including but not limited to employment and/or personal reference and driving records.
Ability to work with computers and the necessary software typically used by the department.

Nice To Haves

Candidates with relevant experience are preferred.

Responsibilities

Follows standard operating procedures, program policy and procedures, and client interventions processes.
Interacts with and supervises clients during daily activities in a manner that ensures their safety and security.
Provides effective facility security including conducting headcounts, room checks and observing client movement.
Observes client behavior and intervene appropriately.
Demonstrates appropriate use of client intervention skills and Safe Crisis Management (SCM) techniques; monitors client interventions and provides guidance to other employees as necessary.
Facilitates and documents various groups or meetings; monitors the documentation process to ensure all services are documented as necessary each shift.
Supports and promotes the Sanctuary Model and its Commitments
Provides structured behavioral interventions to reduce maladaptive behaviors and increase positive, adaptive skills.
Maintains a safe, therapeutic, and structured environment at all times.
Uses trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive approaches.
Accurately observes and documents client behaviors, progress, and responses to interventions.
Collects and documents behavioral data in accordance with program and regulatory standards.
Will be included in daily staffing ratio to assist in effective programming for all youth.
Completes daily notes, incident reports, and other required documentation within required timeframes.
Utilize approved crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques when necessary.
Follows all safety protocols related to self-harm, aggression, and behavioral escalation.
Reports safety concerns, incidents, or changes in client status immediately to supervisory/leadership staff.
Participates in treatment team meetings, supervision, and required training.
Supports family engagement as directed by the treatment team.
Maintains client confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and agency policies.
Follows all Pennsylvania mandated reporter requirements.
Maintains active certification, clearances, and required ongoing training.