Youth Counselor-AnchorPoint Crisis Residence

Children's Home of Poughkeepsie•City of Poughkeepsie, NY

2d•$21 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

The Children's Home of Poughkeepsie has been caring for children throughout the Hudson Valley for over 175 years! We strive to empower children and families to achieve optimal health and well being. We are currently seeking Youth Counselors to work in our Anchor Point Crisis Residence Center Program. Position Summary: The Youth Counselor provides direct care, supervision, and support to children and adolescents residing in the agency’s Children’s Crisis Residence, AnchorPoint. This short-term, therapeutic program serves youth experiencing emotional or behavioral crises, offering stabilization and skill development in a safe, structured, and trauma-informed environment. The Youth Counselor plays a key role in implementing individualized crisis intervention plans, engaging youth in therapeutic activities, and fostering a supportive, nurturing atmosphere to promote emotional regulation and recovery. Youth Counselors will act as a mentor and model appropriate self-regulation skills for the youth.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Knowledge of trauma-informed care, crisis intervention techniques, and child development principles.
Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
Valid driver’s license and ability to transport youth, if required.
Must complete and pass a pre-employment physical, PPD and drug screen and an annual physical and PPD.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, child development, or a related field.
Experience working with children or adolescents in a residential, crisis, or behavioral health setting is strongly preferred.
Appropriate certifications/licensure

Responsibilities

Fulfill training responsibilities according to Children’s Home, NYS Justice Center, and NYS OMH regulations.
Is familiar with and adheres to all agency policies and procedures as outlined in the AnchorPoint Policy and Procedure Manual, Employee Handbook and Risk Management Manual.
Provide supervision, emotional support, and crisis intervention for youth in residence.
Build positive, trusting relationships with children while maintaining professional boundaries.
Implement trauma-informed care principles and de-escalation techniques to support youth experiencing distress.
Assist in the development and execution of individualized service plans in collaboration with clinical and residential staff.
Facilitate structured recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities to promote coping skills and social-emotional development.
Ensure a safe, clean, and supportive living environment in compliance with agency policies and regulatory standards.
Document observations, incidents, and progress notes in accordance with agency protocols.
Collaborate with clinical, medical, and social work teams to support each child’s crisis stabilization and transition plan.