Mental Health Counselor

Penn State University • Philadelphia, PA

27d • $59,580 - $94,980 • Onsite

About The Position

Penn State Schuylkill invites applications for a dedicated and student-centered professional to serve as a Mental Health Counselor. Reporting to the Director of Student Affairs, the Mental Health Counselor is a vital member of the Student Affairs team, providing essential clinical services and contributing to a holistic environment of care, wellness, and belonging for our student body. As a key partner in the campus’s support network, the Counselor will collaborate with units across the institution – including Academic Affairs, Athletics, and Residence Life – to ensure a proactive and integrated approach to student mental health. The successful candidate will be a champion for student well-being, contributing to Penn State Schuylkill’s visibility as a supportive community and telling the story of the campus as a place where every student can thrive. This is a 10-month, in-person, staff position (August–May).

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related discipline.
• If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Senior Professional: Master's Degree, 6+ years of relevant experience, Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.
• If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Advanced Professional: Master's Degree, 3+ years of relevant experience, Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.
• PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• A deep commitment to championing inclusion and fostering a profound sense of belonging, ensuring that mental health services are a cornerstone of a safe, welcoming, and supportive campus community for every student.
• Excellent judgment and problem-solving skills, particularly regarding risk management, ethical standards, and campus safety.
• Exceptional communication and relational skills, with the ability to foster trust with students and build strong partnerships with faculty, staff, and external referral sources.
• Ability to provide services to a wide range of students.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality individual and group counseling.
• Conduct comprehensive intakes.
• Develop effective, individualized treatment plans using evidence-based approaches (e.g., CBT, motivational interviewing).
• Provide clinical triage and crisis management, with the ability to provide immediate support and appropriate disposition for students in distress.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team approach, participating in case consultations and coordinating care with psychiatric and medical providers.
• Serve on key university committees, such as the Behavioral Threat Management Team (BTMT), CARE Team, and the Committee for Substance Awareness and Prevention.
• Develop and deliver innovative wellness initiatives and outreach activities.
• Maintain accurate clinical records and documentation via Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems, with strong attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Adhere to and promote trauma-informed care and healing-centered approaches and principles.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior