Mental Health Counselor

Stars Behavioral Health Group; Merced (CA); On-site; USD 50,030,000 - 54,443,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-paid medical

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Paid CEU opportunities

Professional growth programs

Accredited supervision for BBS hours

Job summary

Stars Behavioral Health Group is seeking an On-Call Mental Health Counselor in Merced, CA to support adults in a 24/7 crisis residential unit. The role covers AM/PM/NOC shifts on a flexible basis, with responsibilities including daily living assistance and group activities.

Qualifications include a high school diploma (associate degree preferred) and a California driver's license. The organization offers employer-paid medical/dental/vision, paid CEUs, and opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree is preferred.
• One year of direct care experience is preferred, or one year of non-professional internship in mental health.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients with daily living skills such as eating, hygiene, and grooming.
• Monitor participation in activities and encourage engagement.
• Lead activity groups, promote social interaction, and model appropriate behavior.
• Document client attendance and participation; transport clients if needed.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Reliability

Education

High School Diploma

Associate degree preferred

Tools

Driver's license

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: On-Call Mental Health Counselor

Division/Program: (Adult 24/7 Inpatient) Crisis Residential Unit

Starting Compensation: 17.46 - 19.00 USD Per Hour

Working Location: Merced, CA

Working Hours/Shift: On‑call shifts

Available for Coverage: AM (6:00–2:30), PM (2:00–10:30), or NOC (10:00–6:30). No set schedule—coverage depends on program needs and applicant availability.

Why 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 dedication

What 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.

How you will make a difference

This 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: Serving adults, ages 18-59

Facility & Setting: 24/7 inpatient voluntary program, 16-bed facility

Clinical Services: Rehabilitation/recovery services, including substance use rehabilitation services

Length of Stay: 30 day stay

Skills & 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]

Join an organization dedicated to improving lives and supporting those facing mental health and behavioral challenges.

At Stars Behavioral Health Group, we are seeking passionate professionals ready to make a lasting, positive impact on children, youth, families, and adults across California.

As a leading statewide provider, SBHG brings together over 2,000 professionals across 70+ specialized programs and 60+ locations, delivering compassionate care to more than 40,000 individuals each year.

We are committed to diversity as we believe exceptional care begins with a diverse team.

SBHG is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that celebrates LGBTQ+, cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity across every level of our organization.