Youth Counselor - STOP

Four Oaks Family & Children Services•Bertram, IA

9d•$16 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Counselor works directly with boys ages 12–17 at the STOP (Supervised Treatment Opportunity Program) Campus in Bertram, Iowa. STOP is a structured residential program that provides a safe, supportive environment where youth can address behavioral needs, develop coping and life skills, build healthy relationships, and prepare to transition back to their families and communities. The counselor provides direct care, supervision, structure, support, and encouragement while helping youth recognize their strengths and make progress.

Requirements

At least 21 years of age.
High School Diploma or GED.
Desire to help children succeed.
Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
Basic computer skills in a Microsoft Office environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services-related field.
Prior experience working with children in a school or mental health setting.

Responsibilities

Build relationships with youth based on consistency, trust, respect, and appropriate boundaries.
Maintain a safe, structured, supportive environment and provide appropriate supervision.
Use daily situations to teach problem-solving, communication, accountability, coping, and other life skills.
Identify potential problems early and use proactive strategies to prevent escalation.
Use approved behavior-management and de-escalation techniques.
Help youth understand their choices and patterns and learn to self-identify and self-correct behaviors.
Understand each youth’s treatment plan and provide appropriate supervision and treatment interventions.
Participate in group, behavioral, and life-space interventions and provide feedback and direction.
Ensure youths’ basic needs are met consistently and appropriately.
Serve as a positive role model and agent of change.
Safely transport youth to program activities and community resources while following agency protocols.
Collaborate with team members, supervisors, and other professionals to review progress and provide programming.
Follow medication-management guidelines and established program procedures.
Develop and maintain knowledge of Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS).
Complete required documentation accurately and on time, including daily case notes, behavioral documentation, visual checks, and other program records.