PRN Residential Counselor

Acenda Health•Mullica Hill, NJ

12d

About The Position

If you want to make a living by making a difference, join Acenda as an Residential Counselor Position Summary: The Residential Counselor ensures the safety and security of adult clients in the residential setting while fostering a supportive and healthful environment. This role assists clients with skills training and daily living responsibilities, working closely with the residential nurse, supervisor, and director to implement individualized rehabilitation treatment goals. The Residential Counselor collaborates with Acenda team members and external supports to promote client independence, while upholding ethical standards in accordance with the Social Work Code of Ethics. As an integrated health organization Acenda values the use of evidence-based practice or EBP's.

Requirements

Workplace Code of Conduct and Ethics
Interpersonal Communication
Collaboration and Teamwork
Cultural Competence and Adaptability
Screening and Assessment
Care Planning and Coordination
Systems-Oriented Practice
Practice-Based Learning and Quality Improvement
Technologically Proficient
Establishes rapport, gathers clinical data, assesses readiness for treatment; and applies criteria for diagnosis
Screens for psychoactive substance toxicity, intoxication, withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring mental health conditions, and risk of harm to self or others.
Interprets screening results to determine treatment priorities
Demonstrates knowledge of age-appropriate developmental milestones.
Formulates measurable, individualized treatment goals and objectives.
Applies evidence-based or accepted case management practices.
Demonstrates communication and advocacy skills.
Understands and complies with Fair Housing rules and regulations.
Understands and complies with the agency's channel of communication
Understands the distinction between administrative and clinical seclusion or restraint.
Knows how to respond appropriately to critical incidents and unusual events.
Bachelor's degree in a human services field (preferred); or high school diploma/GED with a minimum of two years of direct care experience in a mental health or residential/institutional setting, working with adults with chronic mental illness.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record (required).
Ability to exercise sound judgment, independent thinking, and appropriate decision-making under all circumstances, including crisis situations.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to analyze work, set goals, develop plans, and manage time effectively.
Proficiency in maintaining accurate documentation and utilizing electronic health record (EHR) systems (preferred)
Ability to demonstrate professional boundaries, ethical practice, and cultural competence in all interactions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to remain in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Repeated motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers
The employee must occasionally move about to accomplish tasks, adjust or move objects up to 20 pounds.
Must be able to communicate with others to exchange information
Ability to drive a vehicle

Responsibilities

Provide direct, hands-on counseling and support to residents to promote emotional well-being, independence, and community reintegration.
Supervise and assist residents with daily living activities and household responsibilities, maintaining a clean, safe, and supportive environment.
Support residents in identifying, establishing, and working toward individualized treatment and rehabilitation goals.
Facilitate therapeutic groups and structured activities that enhance coping skills, socialization, and community readiness.
Ensure resident safety during transportation to and from appointments and community activities.
Accurately document resident progress, observations, and service needs in accordance with agency and regulatory standards
Maintain required certifications (CPR, medication, and sensitivity training) and adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory standards.
Model positive behaviors, reinforce healthy decision-making, and maintain professional boundaries.
Participate actively in staff meetings, case reviews, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Uphold resident confidentiality at all times and perform other duties as assigned.