Full-Time Mental Health Counselor

Stars Behavioral Health Group; Fowler (CA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Stars Behavioral Health Group is seeking a Full-Time Mental Health Counselor for the Crisis Residential Unit in Merced, CA. The role supports adults 18-59 in a 24/7 inpatient program, providing daily living assistance, group activities, and documentation of care.

The position offers competitive pay, benefits, and growth opportunities. Starting compensation ranges from $19.08 to $21.08 per hour with a 32-hour weekly schedule (Fri–Mon AM shift).

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree in a social science field is preferred.
• Experience: 1 year of direct care experience preferred, or 1 year of non-professional, consumer-directed internship in mental health.
• Licensure & Compliance: Valid California Driver’s License and ability to meet driving criteria required.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients with daily living skills (eating, personal hygiene, grooming)
• Monitor participation in activities and encourage client engagement
• Lead activity groups and community outings; promote positive social interactions
• Maintain accurate documentation of client attendance and participation in activities and therapeutic services
• Transport clients using a company vehicle when needed

Skills

Daily living skills

Documentation

Positive engagement

Transportation support

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associates degree in social science (preferred)

Job description

Partner with us in making a positive change!Join a team where your work truly matters. We're proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work for 8 years by our own employees. We invite you to partner with us in our mission to improve mental healthcare.Job Title:Full-Time Mental Health CounselorDivision/Program:Crisis Residential Unit (CRU Program)Starting Compensation:19.08 - 21.08 USD Per HourWorking Location:Merced, CAWorking Hours/Shift:Friday through Monday on the AM shift (6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) 32 hour work week. Full Time and benefits eligibleWhy Join Our Team?Competitive Compensation: Offering a salary that matches your skills and experience.Generous Time Off: Enjoy ample vacation and holiday pay.Comprehensive Benefits Package:Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.Additional voluntary benefits to support your lifestyle.Professional Growth Opportunities:On-the-job training with access to paid CEU opportunities.Career development programs designed to help you grow.Supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals (where applicable).Employee Recognition & Rewards: A culture that celebrates and rewards your hard work and dedicationThis role is eligible for commuter benefits: Employees who commute over 20 miles one way may receive a monthly stipend:$200 per month for full‑time staff$100 per month for part‑time staffWhat you bring to SBHG:Education:High School Diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree in a social science field is preferred.Experience:One (1) year of full-time direct care experience preferred, OR one (1) year of non-professional, consumer-directed internship experience in the mental health field preferred.Licensure & Compliance:A valid California Driver’s License and the ability to meet agency driving criteria requiredHow you will make a differenceThis position has the primary responsibility for assisting clients with daily living skills, including eating, personal hygiene, grooming, and other care needs. Monitors participation in activities and encourages client engagement through positive support and motivation. Leads and assists with activity groups and community outings, promotes positive social interactions, and serves as a role model for appropriate behavior. Maintains accurate documentation of client attendance and participation in activities and therapeutic services and may transport clients using a company vehicle as needed.Division/Program Overview:Population Served (Capacity): Serving adults, ages 18-59Facility & Setting: 24/7 inpatient voluntary program, 16-bed facilityClinical Services (Core): Rehabilitation/recovery services, including substance use rehabilitation servicesLength of Stay: 30 day staySkills & Services: Pre-vocational or vocational counseling and medication evaluation and support services.Learn more about SBHG at: https://www.starsinc.com/stars-inc/For Additional Information:[e-mail]