On Call Youth Counselor
About The Position
The On-Call Youth Counselor supervises and cares for adolescent clients in individual and group settings at the Kern Psychiatric Health Facility, a 16-bed, high-acuity inpatient psychiatric facility serving children and youth ages 5–17 with acute psychiatric symptoms. The role focuses on client safety and well-being, supporting daily living skills and activities, encouraging appropriate behavior and participation, and assisting with school responsibilities and therapeutic programs. Counselors document daily activities and behaviors and participate in shift and treatment-team meetings to support quality care and communication. The facility provides intensive treatment through five phases: admission, engagement, learning, stabilization, and linkage to resources and aftercare. Stays are typically up to 72 hours but may be extended when additional evaluation or treatment is needed. This is an on-call position with no set schedule. Coverage is needed as required by facility needs and applicant availability, Monday through Sunday on the AM shift, 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Requirements
- Youth Counselor I: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Youth Counselor I: One year of experience with children or adults with serious mental health needs.
- Youth Counselor II / Youth Counselor IV: High school diploma or equivalent plus three years of experience with children or adults with serious mental health needs; or an associate’s degree plus one year of experience; or a bachelor’s degree plus six months of experience.
Nice To Haves
- Inpatient experience is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and care for adolescent clients in individual and group settings, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Assist clients with daily living skills, including eating, personal hygiene, grooming, social interactions, and positive behavior development.
- Support clients with daily activities, school responsibilities, and therapeutic programs while encouraging appropriate behavior and participation.
- Lead and assist with group activities.
- Maintain accurate documentation of daily activities and client behaviors.
- Participate in shift meetings and treatment-team meetings to support quality care and communication.
Benefits
- Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Additional voluntary benefits.
- Vacation and holiday pay.
- On-the-job training and access to paid CEU opportunities.
- Career development programs.
- Supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals, where applicable.
- Employee recognition and rewards.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
