Child Clinical Counselor

Description

Job Summary: 

Clinical counselors at a community mental health agency fill a vital role in delivering mental health services, advocating for clients, and collaborating with a diverse team of professionals to promote overall well-being within the community.  The counselor will have a strong commitment to ethical standards, cultural competence, and ongoing professional development.  

As a Clinical Counselor specializing in children's mental health, you will provide therapeutic services to children and adolescents facing a variety of emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to create individualized treatment plans that promote resilience, healing, and growth. 

 Key Duties:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify clients' mental health needs.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients and their families.
• Provide individual, group, and family counseling sessions using evidence-based practices.
• Monitor and document clients' progress, adjusting treatment plans as necessary.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, educators, and community resources to support clients' holistic well-being.
• Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and professional development activities.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in compliance with agency policies and regulations.

Supervisory Duties:

None.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

• Knowledge of counselor principles: You should have a strong understanding of social work principles, ethics, and values. This includes knowledge of human behavior, diversity and cultural competence, social justice, and the impact of social determinants of health on individuals and communities.
• Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis: You should be proficient in conducting comprehensive assessments of individuals' social, emotional, and environmental factors. This involves gathering relevant information, utilizing assessment tools, and identifying mental health conditions or psychosocial issues that may require intervention.
• Treatment Planning and Intervention: You should have the ability to develop effective treatment plans based on the assessment findings. This includes formulating goals and objectives, selecting appropriate interventions and evidence-based practices, and regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan as needed.
• Counseling and Therapeutic Techniques: You should possess strong counseling skills and be familiar with various therapeutic modalities. This includes individual, family, and group counseling, crisis intervention, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and other approaches that align with the needs of the population you serve.
• Care Coordination and Resource Navigation: You should have knowledge of community resources and services, including healthcare, mental health, housing, employment, financial assistance, and social support programs. The ability to effectively coordinate care and connect patients with appropriate resources is crucial for addressing their social needs.
  Communication and Interpersonal
• Skills: Excellent communication skills are essential for building rapport with patients, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and advocating on behalf of your clients. Active listening, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to communicate complex information in a clear and understandable manner are crucial.
• Crisis Management and Risk Assessment: You should be skilled in identifying and managing crisis situations, including assessing for suicide risk, domestic violence, child abuse, and other emergencies. This involves having the ability to provide immediate support, implement safety plans, and make appropriate referrals to ensure the well-being of your patients.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping: Accurate and timely documentation is vital for maintaining proper records of assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and referrals. Familiarity with electronic health record systems and compliance with confidentiality and privacy regulations is essential.
• Cultural Competence and Diversity: Understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and practices of diverse populations is crucial. Being culturally competent enables you to effectively engage with individuals from various backgrounds and provide culturally sensitive care.
• Professional Development and Ethical Practice: Continuously seeking professional development opportunities, staying updated on best practices and evidence-based interventions, and adhering to the ethical guidelines and st