In Home Counselor - Des Moines/ North Lee County

Four Oaks Family & Children Services•Burlington, IA

10d

About The Position

Four Oaks is seeking an 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 into their communities from residential treatment or the State Training School, or who may be at risk of entering those placements. The role provides mentoring, supervision, guidance, and support to youth and their families to encourage positive behavior, sound decision-making, healthier relationships, and successful community transitions. The counselor works with youth and families in their homes and communities, collaborating with referral sources, placement agencies, Juvenile Court Services, schools, community partners, and other professionals. The position includes developing and implementing individualized Situational Plans and Family Support Plans, monitoring progress, adapting interventions, maintaining regular contact, and providing updates, reports, and testimony when required.

Requirements

A 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.
Frequent travel required, up to 50%.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized support, supervision, and mentoring to youth.
Work with youth and families in their homes and communities, building trusting relationships and offering consistent encouragement.
Collaborate with youth, families, referral sources, and placement agencies to develop and implement 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 coping strategies.
Help youth understand and follow supervision or probation agreements while encouraging personal growth.
Use Thinking Errors and Anger Controls models to support positive behavior and emotional management.
Provide mentoring, guidance, and ongoing communication to strengthen family support for youth progress.
Maintain regular telephone and face-to-face contact with youth and families to monitor progress and address concerns.
Coordinate services with Juvenile Court Services, schools, community partners, and referring professionals.
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 concerning youth progress, behavior, and supervision.