Options Counselor - Veterans Directed Care
About The Position
The Veterans Directed Care (VDC) Options Counselor provides person-centered guidance and support to veterans and their caregivers as they make informed decisions about home-based care. The role assesses needs, identifies services and resources, develops individualized care and spending plans, and provides ongoing support to participants and caregivers. The position reports to the VDC Program Manager. The counselor conducts participant contacts and follow-ups, maintains confidential records and financial documentation, monitors spending, and coordinates with healthcare providers, community organizations, and other agencies. The role uses Cumulus and other web-based systems and includes independent travel to veterans’ homes and community locations.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, or a related field, or at least two years of experience providing community-based services to older adults, people with disabilities, or veterans.
- Strong ability to research and connect individuals with community resources and services.
- Excellent listening, interviewing, assessment, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to empower and guide veterans and caregivers while maintaining a person-centered approach.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound professional judgment, and manage changing priorities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and web-based software systems.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable ethical standards.
- Comfortable working remotely while maintaining productivity, communication, and accountability.
- Comfortable traveling independently and conducting regular in-person visits in the field.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Reliable personal vehicle and current auto insurance.
- Good driving record.
- Ability to pass an acceptable criminal background check.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of aging, disability, veteran, consumer-directed, Medicaid, Medicare, or other benefit systems.
Responsibilities
- Complete initial assessments and required documentation.
- Work with veterans and caregivers to identify needs, preferences, and appropriate services.
- Develop and monitor individualized care and spending plans.
- Help participants and caregivers understand their responsibilities and available services.
- Provide guidance, training, and ongoing support as needed.
- Conduct required monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual participant contacts.
- Follow up on referrals and ensure services are implemented appropriately.
- Maintain accurate and confidential participant records in electronic databases.
- Monitor participant spending, maintain accurate financial records, and complete required reports.
- Coordinate with healthcare providers, community organizations, and other agencies to connect veterans with additional resources.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with veterans, caregivers, professionals, and community partners.
- Provide education and presentations to community and professional groups.
- Use Cumulus and other web-based systems to maintain participant information, documentation, and program records.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
