Home Intervention Counselor

Washington County Mental Health Services Inc; Berlin (VT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement contribution match

12 holidays per year (flexible)

12 sick days per year

12 vacation days per year

Job summary

Washington County Mental Health Services provides direct overnight crisis support in a community-based residential setting, focusing on safety and stabilization. Counselors use trauma-informed approaches and de-escalation to help individuals regain control during crises.

The role emphasizes collaborative teamwork, monitoring of emotional and physical status, and medication administration per agency protocols, with a comprehensive benefits package and generous time off.

Qualifications

• Education requirements as stated: various combinations with 0–7 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of crisis stabilization principles, trauma-informed, recovery-oriented care.
• Ability to apply supportive counseling and de-escalation strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct overnight support to individuals experiencing mental health crises in a community-based residential setting.
• Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment through active supervision and crisis prevention strategies.
• Offer emotional support, supportive counseling, and reassurance during periods of distress.
• Assess and monitor emotional, behavioral, and physical status, including safety and risk concerns.
• Use de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed interventions during behavioral escalation.
• Assist with medication administration and monitoring per agency protocols.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Trauma-informed care

De-escalation

Motivational interviewing

Education

Bachelor’s degree with 0–2 years of relevant experience

Two years of college with 2–4 years of relevant experience

High school diploma with 4–7 years of relevant experience

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job description

Home Intervention CounselorHome Intervention Counselors provide direct, overnight care to individuals experiencing acute mental health crises in a community-based crisis facility. This role offers an alternative to hospital-based care by creating a safe, structured, and supportive environment where individuals can stabilize and begin to regain a sense of control. Through calm presence, trauma-informed interventions, and collaborative teamwork, Home Intervention Counselors play a key role in helping individuals navigate intense emotional situations and move toward recovery.Summary of DutiesProvide direct overnight support to individuals experiencing mental health crises in a community-based residential setting.Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment through active supervision and crisis prevention strategies.Offer emotional support, supportive counseling, and reassurance during periods of distress.Assess and monitor emotional, behavioral, and physical status, including safety and risk concerns.Use de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed interventions to respond to behavioral escalation.Assist with medication administration and monitoring in accordance with agency protocolsCompensation and BenefitsWCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision and a generous retirement contribution match. Our industry-leading paid time off package includes 12.5 flexible holidays per year, 12 paid sick days, and 12 vacation days earned in year one of employment.The starting pay range for this position is $21.44 - $22.31 per hour.Summary of QualificationsEducation RequirementsBachelor’s degree with 0–2 years of relevant experience, orTwo years of college with 2–4 years of relevant experience, orHigh school diploma with 4–7 years of relevant experience, orAn equivalent combination of education and experience.Knowledge and CompetenciesExperience providing direct care to individuals in crisis, preferably in behavioral health, residential, or hospital-like settings.Understanding of crisis stabilization principles and trauma-informed, recovery-oriented care.Familiarity with mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders, and treatment approaches.Ability to apply supportive counseling, motivational interviewing, and de-escalation strategiesKnowledge of community resources and ability to support linkage to services.Valid driver’s license, excellent driving record, and access to a safe, insured vehicle.About the AgencyFor more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”#EXB