MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR - Relief

BUCKELEW PROGRAMS • Novato, CA

89d • $23 - $23

About The Position

Buckelew Programs' mission is to promote recovery, resilience and hope by providing behavioral health and support services that enhance quality of life. Join us as a Mental Health Counselor I in the Buckelew Marin Assisted Independent Living (MAIL), which offers care in homelike settings for clients with moderate to severe mental illness, at sites throughout Marin County. The Mental Health Counselor I provides direct support to clients living independently in the community or within a Buckelew housing environment. This position plays a key role in promoting client recovery, self-sufficiency, and independence through the provision of daily living assistance. Working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, the Mental Health Counselor I serves clients in the field working with our counselors, case managers, and team leader. Through this work, the Mental Health Counselor I contributes directly to a positive client experience and a workplace culture rooted in Buckelew’s mission and values. This is an on-site, relief position, working shifts as they become available.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorders preferred.
• Fluent in English; bilingual/bicultural preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries, exercise sound judgment, and work independently in a calm, organized, and empathetic manner.
• Interest and comfort in working with individuals with behavioral health needs.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) at a basic to intermediate level.
• Must be a dependable, flexible, and collaborative team player.
• Valid California driver’s license, an insurable driving record, and access to a personal, insured vehicle required.
• Ability to pass a Live Scan background check, as required by program regulations.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate effectively as part of a team, maintaining prompt and clear communication with colleagues.
• Complete and maintain timely, accurate documentation including client notes, mileage logs, and other required records.
• Teach and assist clients with activities of daily living, adapting support to their individual needs and readiness levels.
• Monitor and report on client well-being, including mood and behavior. Ensure and model adherence to agency safety protocols.
• Support clients with meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation, offering skill-building assistance as appropriate.
• Provide medication prompts, ensure proper storage, monitor adherence, and support timely refills as required by program guidelines.
• Provide client transportation using personal or agency vehicles; support clients in learning and using public transportation.
• Assist clients with attending and coordinating medical appointments.
• Perform general housekeeping tasks (e.g., vacuuming, dishwashing, dusting) as needed.
• Conduct basic maintenance tasks (e.g., replacing light bulbs, checking smoke detectors) and report major repair needs to the supervisor.
• Maintain adequate household supplies and restock as needed.
• Deliver services that align with program goals, emphasizing client progress and satisfaction.
• Comply with all legal, regulatory, and contractual standards (e.g., CARF, Medi-Cal, HUD) and maintain program certifications and licensing requirements.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a workplace that celebrates diversity, promotes equality, and fosters inclusion.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees