In Home Counselor - Des Moines/ North Lee County

FOUR OAKS FAMILY AND CHILDRENS SERVICES•Burlington, IA

10d

About The Position

Four Oaks is seeking a compassionate, motivated, and dedicated In-Home Youth Counselor to serve Des Moines County and northern Lee County. The counselor works directly with youth involved with Juvenile Court Services who are transitioning back to their communities from residential treatment or the State Training School, as well as youth who may be at risk of entering those placements. The position provides guidance and support to youth and their families to encourage positive behaviors, sound decision-making, and healthier relationships. The counselor meets with youth and families in their homes and communities, builds trusting relationships, and provides individualized supervision, mentoring, and encouragement. In collaboration with youth, families, referral sources, and placement agencies, the counselor develops and implements individualized Situational Plans and Family Support Plans. The role includes helping youth develop accountability, responsibility, problem-solving, emotional regulation, coping, and decision-making skills; supporting families; monitoring progress and risk factors; coordinating services with community partners; and providing updates, reports, and testimony when required. This is a full-time, first-shift position based in Burlington, Iowa, with frequent travel required, up to 50%.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from an accredited college or university, or a bachelor’s degree in a related field plus two years of human service-related experience.
Compassion, patience, resourcefulness, and passion for helping youth overcome challenges and reach their potential.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized support, supervision, and mentoring to youth.
Work with youth and families in their homes and communities to build trusting relationships and provide consistent encouragement.
Collaborate with youth, families, referral sources, and placement agencies to develop and implement individualized Situational Plans and Family Support Plans.
Help youth develop accountability, responsibility, problem-solving skills, and healthier decision-making habits.
Use everyday situations to teach positive behaviors, emotional regulation, and effective coping strategies.
Help youth understand and follow supervision or probation agreements while encouraging personal growth.
Use Thinking Errors and Anger Controls models to help youth recognize behavior patterns, manage emotions, and make positive choices.
Provide mentoring, guidance, and ongoing communication to help families support youth progress.
Maintain regular telephone and face-to-face contact with youth and families to monitor progress, address concerns, and celebrate successes.
Collaborate with Juvenile Court Services, schools, community partners, and referring professionals to coordinate services and support.
Assess youth behavior, identify risk factors and strengths, and adjust interventions based on individual needs and team feedback.
Provide timely updates, written reports, and testimony when required regarding youth progress, behavior, and supervision.