Polk County Counselor

Youth and Family Advocates; Bartow (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Youth and Family Advocates in Bartow, Florida is seeking a compassionate counselor to support youth and families. The role involves providing individual, group, and family therapy under supervision, emphasizing trauma-informed care.

The ideal candidate will hold a Master’s degree in a related field and possess a strong understanding of trauma-informed principles. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, preparing treatment plans, and advocating for clients in court proceedings, ensuring a safe environment for emotional healing.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years’ post-master’s degree clinical/counseling experience is required.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed principles and practices is essential.
• Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic situations.
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments and prepare treatment plans.
• Provide counseling to youth and assist with education.
• Maintain communication with schools regarding truancy referrals.
• Advocate for clients in court proceedings.

Skills

Trauma-informed care principles

Effective communication

Group facilitation

Microsoft Office Suite proficiency

Team collaboration

Education

Master’s degree in social work, mental health, psychology, or human services

Job description

Responsible for counseling individuals, groups, and/or community youth and their families using advanced techniques through individual, group, and family therapy. Work is performed under direct supervision of the Program Director and a licensed clinician.

In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required training, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.

Essential Functions

• Conduct assessments, prepare treatment plans and psycho-social evaluations to meet clinical contract and regulatory compliance goals.
• Provide counseling and support services to youth, assisting them in completing their education and developing appropriate pro-social behaviors.
• Determine eligibility, complete intake, assessment, evaluation, referral, transportation, monitor school attendance, and provide case management.
• Conduct group counseling sessions.
• Schedule and conduct client sessions at locations convenient for the client.
• Maintain regular contact with individuals who have information about or an interest in specific clients.
• Stay in communication with assigned schools that initiate truancy/ungovernable referrals.
• Meet assigned productivity requirements to comply with contract deliverables.
• Complete documentation related to counseling services, including contact notes, assessments, testing, screening, intake forms, interview notes, correspondence, and statistics.
• Advocate for clients by staffing cases in the Truancy Arbitration process and initiating CINS/FINS petitions to the court.
• Represent YFA and/or the child in court proceedings.
• Stay up to date on laws, DCF, DJJ, and other agency guidelines related to eligibility, counseling services, and required actions.
• Complete client follow-ups according to established guidelines.
• Participate in meetings and work sessions related to service provision, including programmatic supervision, individual supervision, and inter-program supervision.
• Provide input on program and service enhancements; contribute to the design or redesign of programs.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings.
• Complete all required training.
• Perform other tasks as assigned to ensure clients receive necessary services and administrative tasks are completed.
• Foster a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues, ensuring emotional and physical security without re-traumatization.
• Follow a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individuals’ needs and experiences.
• Practice self-care and seek support as needed to prevent burnout while providing trauma-informed care.
• Adhere to agency policies and procedures.
• Uphold the core values and mission statement of YFA.

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in social work, mental health, psychology, or other human services degree and 0-3 years’ post-master’s degree clinical/counseling experience.
• Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals.
• Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic stories and situations and communicate a sense of trust and safety. Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well-being.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Communicate and maintain working relationships with internal and external contacts.
• Ability to facilitate large/small groups and navigate varied group dynamics.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a group/team setting.
• Ability to take guidance and direction from supervisors.
• Ability to complete accurate and complete documentation in a timely manner.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites.
• Skilled in actively listening to concerns, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves without judgment or blame.