At-Will Residential Counselors

City of Alexandria • Alexandria, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The City of Alexandria is seeking qualified candidates to apply for At-Will Residential Counselor positions. These roles provide residential services to individuals with serious mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders. The Residential Counselor will complete assessments and documentation, provide input for service plans, and offer assistance and training in daily living skills.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED plus completion of post-high-school training/education pertaining to behavioral health, medical health, substance abuse and/or mental health.
• At least one year of direct work experience with individuals served by the specific program where the position is located (Intellectual Disability, Mental Illness, and/or Substance Abuse/Dependence).
• An equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Possess a valid driver's license issued in the state of their residence.
• Good knowledge of residential site settings with large household coordination and maintenance.
• Good knowledge of the nature of serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders and the role of residential support services.
• Empathy with the problems of individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders.
• Ability to identify behavior which indicates movement toward a crisis situation.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of clients.
• Ability to instruct clients in basic living skills and to identify progress towards treatment goals.
• Ability to appropriately evaluate situations and engage with clients in crisis.
• Ability to understand the needs and abilities of mentally ill individuals.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

• Possession of a Bachelor’s degree in a social science field.
• At least one year of experience working with individuals suffering from mental illnesses and/or substance abuse disorder.
• Basic computer skills are necessary.
• Certified by The Virginia Board of Counseling as a QMHP-A.

Responsibilities

• Completes all applicable assessment documents to develop individualized service plans; writes progress notes on computer system.
• Maintains clinical records following all applicable licensing and Medicaid regulations.
• Instructs and guides residents in the completion of tasks to ensure the development of skills and confidence, and monitors, evaluates and records resident’s performance through written progress notes.
• Monitors medication management of residents by observation and reporting medication concerns to treatment team and/or supervisor.
• Assist residents in planning recreational and educational activities.
• Identifies and responds to residents’ emergencies and crisis with referral to appropriate community resources and treatment team.
• Participates in treatment team meetings.
• Reports all maintenance issues of the facility.
• Assists residents in preparing meals, house cleaning and laundry.
• Completes grocery shopping.
• Transportation of residents in City vehicles.
• Performs related work as required.

Benefits

• The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED