JYF- Youth Counselor

Rising Ground, Inc.•New York, NY

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The NSP and LSP placement programs are secure residential settings with 9 to 18 beds. They serve youth (residents) ages 11 to 21 who have been adjudicated juvenile delinquents and are placed under supervision to complete their sentence. The Youth Counselor is responsible for building positive relationships with the youth and ensuring their safety, care, supervision, and emotional support. The goal is to help each young person work toward becoming a productive member of society. This position involves direct physical intervention during emergencies, following agency safety protocols.

Requirements

High School Diploma + 3 Years of Direct Services in Mental Health or Juvenile Justice Programming
Associate’s degree + 2 Years of Direct Services in Mental Health or Juvenile Justice Programming
Bachelor’s Degree + 1 Year of Direct Services in Mental Health or Juvenile Justice Programming
Valid NYS Driver’s License preferred.
This position requires successful completion of Safe Crisis Management (SCM) training, which includes both a written assessment and a physical demonstration of restraint techniques, as outlined by the program and regulatory requirements.
Ongoing employment is contingent upon the successful completion of all required SCM refresher courses.
SCM training is provided by the organization.

Responsibilities

Provide direct supervision of residents 24/7 and always know their whereabouts.
Ensure compliance with daily routines, schedules, and program structure.
Maintain a clean, safe, and secure environment throughout the residence.
Use Safe Crisis Management (SCM) techniques and approved methods to manage behavior and respond to crises.
Address and redirect negative behavior respectfully and appropriately.
Uphold all ACS, OCFS, and agency regulations and safety standards.
Support residents with daily living needs including hygiene, meals, clothing, and health.
Accompany youth to school, appointments, court, and group activities.
Provide individual and group counseling to residents.
Assist with family engagement and development, including court-ordered visits (e.g., home visits, day passes, facility visits).
Implement group and individual treatment plans using the Missouri approach (MYSI).
Participate in and apply the Missouri approach to manage group dynamics and help youth engage in program work.
Promote a positive peer culture and manage group interactions effectively.
Attend all required training, meetings, and conferences, mandated by ACS, OCFS, and the agency.
Communicate regularly with supervisors, case planners, and team members about resident needs and concerns.
Demonstrate commitment to the program’s mission by supporting a safe, caring, and therapeutic environment.
Build and model healthy, respectful relationships with youth and coworkers.
Complete and submit all required documentation, including logs, incident reports, and behavior assessments.
Maintain accurate records in line with agency and regulatory standards.
Ensure proper use and supervision of agency supplies and equipment.
Participate in planning and leading educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
Provide safe transportation for residents to court and other appointments.
Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.