Residential Mental Health Counselor

Walden Behavioral Care•Dedham, MA

1d•$19 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Mental Health Counselor provides direct patient care to adolescents and adults at Walden Behavioral Care’s 24-hour level-of-care facility in Dedham, Massachusetts. The role works under the supervision of clinical staff and the program director and supports residents’ safety, therapeutic care, daily activities, and treatment plans. The position is per diem and pays $19.00–$23.00 per hour, depending on education and experience. The counselor helps maintain a safe, therapeutic milieu; builds therapeutic relationships with residents; supports admissions and daily routines; participates in groups and activities; documents resident care; and communicates with treatment teams.

Requirements

High school diploma.
CPR certification.
Knowledge of psychiatric group processes, therapeutic relationships, age-specific growth and development, limit setting, behavior management, and crisis management involving aggressive behaviors.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Attention to detail and ability to prioritize independently.
Ability to multitask in a changing, fast-paced mental health environment.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Monitor residents and redirect them to maintain a safe and therapeutic milieu.
Assist residents with admissions, including bag searches, required paperwork, and orientation to the unit.
Establish therapeutic relationships with residents and provide care in accordance with Walden policies, philosophies, and objectives.
Observe residents and accurately and thoroughly document daily resident care.
Supervise breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and redirect residents as needed.
Prepare adolescent snacks precisely and supervise and guide adult residents in meal preparation.
Participate in community meetings, group therapy, education, and social activities.
Help facilitate group therapy sessions, including DBT, CBT, and body image groups.
Communicate effectively with residents’ treatment teams to support quality care.
Conduct daily resident weigh-ins.
Complete call assignments as designated by clinical staff.
Administer Columbia risk assessments, monitor resident safety, and complete safety documentation.
Model therapeutic eating habits by completing provided program meals and snacks in accordance with the company’s nutrition philosophy throughout the shift.