Youth Diversion Counselor

Jewish Family & Childrens Service Of The Suncoast • Sarasota, FL

13d

About The Position

JFCS of the Suncoast is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Counselor to join our Adolescent Diversion and Prevention Program. This role focuses on supporting at-risk youth in Sarasota County and Manatee, particularly those in Title I schools. The ideal candidate will provide individualized counseling, family education, and psycho-educational services to address mental health needs, promote positive behavioral management, and support pro-social development.

Requirements

• Education: Master’s in psychology, social work, or related field preferred. Bachelors required.
• Experience: 2+ years in behavioral health counseling and crisis intervention preferred.
• Other: Valid Florida driver’s license, ability to respond outside regular hours, and pass criminal background check.
• Strong knowledge of the Juvenile Justice System and related services.
• Ability to recognize and report signs of abuse or neglect.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while demonstrating sensitivity to socio-economic issues.
• Proficiency in data entry and electronic medical records systems.
• Familiarity with psycho-social and ecological perspectives and person-in-environment frameworks.
• Attend all JFCS and DCF mandatory trainings.
• Maintain active licensure in Florida by completing all required CEUs.
• Mobility throughout agency location and ability to sit through client sessions and meetings.

Nice To Haves

• Language: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized treatment to clients referred from schools, focusing on their mental health and behavioral needs.
• Deliver family counseling and education to support client goals and strengthen family dynamics.
• Offer psycho-educational services in schools, homes, and the community, including group and individual sessions.
• Work collaboratively with youth and families to achieve service goals and promote self-understanding and pro-social behavior.
• Provide crisis intervention and coordinate discharge planning when needed.
• Participate in Juvenile Justice staffings and court hearings, offering recommendations for client programming.
• Maintain detailed case records in alignment with professional standards and complete all documentation promptly.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies, particularly confidentiality and HIPAA regulations.
• Establish positive relationships with clients and deliver effective psycho-educational services.
• Plan and implement therapeutic services tailored to the needs of students and families.
• Manage oppositional behaviors effectively and professionally.
• Collaborate with external partners, including Juvenile Justice, schools, and community organizations, while maintaining confidentiality.
• Recognize and address personal biases to ensure equitable service delivery.
• Understand and integrate the functions, programs, and services of JFCS, the Sarasota County School District, and the Juvenile Justice System.
• Identify and report signs of abuse or neglect in accordance with agency and school policies.
• Travel within Sarasota and/or Manatee County to provide services in schools, homes, or community settings.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisory or executive staff.

Benefits

• 403(b) retirement plan with matching contributions.
• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Generous paid time off (starting at 15 days per year) and 15-18 paid holidays annually , including federal holidays and key Jewish holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support your well-being.
• Early closures on Fridays at 3:30 PM.
• 37.5-hour work week for better work-life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees