Residential Counselor I | Launch | DMH

Gandara Center; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 29,618; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, Vision, Pet and Life Insurance

Paid vacations

Paid holidays

8 discretionary days

Mileage Reimbursement

Job summary

A community-focused organization is seeking a Residential Counselor I to maintain a therapeutic environment and provide services to youth and families in Chicopee, MA. The role involves implementing individual treatment plans, documenting progress, and serving as an advocate for youth. Candidates must possess good communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and have prior experience working with youths. The position offers full-time hours, health benefits, and competitive pay at $21.50 per hour.

Qualifications

• MAP certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
• Valid MA driver's license required.
• Reliable vehicle for transportation of youth.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a therapeutic environment for clients.
• Implement youth's Individual Treatment Plan objectives.
• Provide services to youth and families.

Skills

Good communication skills

Conflict resolution

Teamwork

Job description

Job Category: Operations-Dept of Developmental Disabilities

Requisition Number: RESID003117

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• Posted : October 13, 2025
• Full-Time
• On-site

Locations

Showing 1 location

Launch
119 Chicopee St
Chicopee, MA 01013, USA

Explore the career pathways in Behavioral Health, Substance Use and Recovery, Community Based Clinical services, Adolescent and Family services, Adult Residential, Maintenance and Administration! Whether that is in an entry level or leadership role, Gandara will provide the tools and resources to better enhance your career growth. The opportunities are presented with the ability to transition your skills and experience in meeting the organizations mission. There is grand landscape of opportunities that supports the community we serve, so Join the Gándara team today!

• Health, Dental, Vision, Pet and Life Insurance
• Paid vacations
• Paid holidays
• 8 discretionary days
• Mileage Reimbursement
• Hourly | $21.50

Additional Benefits:

• Culturally Diverse population
• Clinical Licensing Support

Job Title: Residential Counselor I

Work Location: Chicopee, MA

*Bilingual Candidates Encouraged to Apply

*EOE M/F/D/V

*Union

Job Summary:

We're looking for a Residential Counselor II for our DMH Program to maintain a therapeutic environment within the residence, which includes meeting the needs of the client in the following areas: safety, medical, emotional, food, clothing, and shelter. To participate in the development of reasonable limits and structure for each child and to implement these limits on a daily basis in the residence and community in a fair and consistent manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Client Services - Necessary to meet overall agency goals and provide services to program consumers.

• Provide services to youth and families in a manner that is strengths based, family driven, youth guided and culturally relevant.
• To implement each youth's Individual Treatment Plan objectives under the direction of the Clinical Supervisor and Direct Care Supervisor.
• To accurately complete all required documentation.
• Responsible for acting as a "Staff Advocate" for one youth.

Program and Staff Development Services - Necessary to meet overall program and agency goals, and provide support to management and program staff.

• To work as a cooperative team member and to be a positive role model for youth.
• To assist youth in carrying out daily tasks and responsibilities including cleaning, cooking, maintenance, and laundry.
• To plan and organize a variety of appropriate recreational and social activities.
• To assume other duties and responsibilities as requested by the Program Director or Program Supervisor.

Administrative Responsibilities/Record Keeping - Necessary to meet administrative requirements of the job by government bodies, funding sources, agency policy, etc.

• Knowledge of Agency policies, practices, and procedures and to meet all rules and regulations of the Agency.
• Attends required mandatory Staff meetings.
• Participate in all Departmental trainings as directed by Program Director.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
• Good communication skills both verbal and in writing.
• Ability to deal with conflict in an appropriate manner.
• Ability to maintain proper attendance.
• MAP certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
• Previous work in related field dealing with youths preferred.
• Must possess the ability to communicate effectively in a professional manner both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Must have a valid Ma. license
• Must have a reliable vehicle available to transport youth or provide other supportive services as necessary.

The Gándara Mental Health Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Qualifications

Skills

Behaviors

Motivations

Education

Experience

Licenses & Certifications

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.