*SHELTER COUNSELOR 1
Pay Range GC17

INTRODUCTION

This classification within this three-level series performs on-line supervision of residents and shift team leadership in a shelter care facility for adolescents. Counselor provides services related to daily living needs and skill development activities for juveniles who have behavioral and/or emotional problems. Counselor also provides intake decision-making services for the shelter care facility. Classification may direct volunteers.

This classification is entry-level within the series and is distinguished from the shelter counselor 2 by the level of supervision received, independence of action and experience.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPAL DUTIES (Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples. Any one position may not perform all listed tasks.)

1. Supervise juvenile residents and participate in daily work, recreational or educational activities; train residents, which includes: educational instruction, community safety, observing rules and regulations; insure provision of basic needs and safety within a nurturing and growth oriented environment.

2. Function as lead worker on shift; plan shift activities to meet program needs.

3. Make decisions regarding lodging juveniles in Shelter when necessary. Assist in orientation of juveniles upon arrival.

4. Coordinate and provide services related to daily living needs for juveniles.

5. Provide group, individual, and family skill development training in areas such as substance abuse, anger management, social skills development, parenting, etc.; perform interventions as necessary.

6. Assist with crisis intervention. Provide appropriate documentation regarding activities and critical incidents.

7. Attend shift change meetings to exchange information on clients; consult with other staff regarding assessment, educational instruction and interventions. Assist department staff in assessing treatment needs.

8. Perform special duties, such as safety officer. Assist supervisory staff as directed.

9. Provide case management and develop individual service plans for residents in program.  Monitor progress toward and completion of service plan goals.

10. Complete written individualized service plans, evaluations, and other program related treatment and intervention documents in strict adherence with regulatory and program timelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THIS POSITION

Knowledge of: Thorough knowledge of social service theory, practices and procedures to be able to identify the problem, decide an appropriate action, and provide indicated services; reasonable knowledge of juvenile behavioral problems and methods of treatment such as substance abuse, anger management, physical/emotional/sexual abuse; reasonable knowledge of laws relating to juveniles; reasonable knowledge of sound case management principles, practices and procedures; reasonable knowledge of treatment intervention, management and support strategies; reasonable knowledge of community resources, functions and procedures of other social service agencies and service providers. Skill in: Writing clear and concise correspondence, client assessments and evaluations, records, treatment notes and summaries, reports and statistical data; interviewing, counseling and listening techniques and principles; family and group dynamics; dealing with aggressive or emotionally disturbed juveniles. Ability to: Communicate effectively both in written and oral form; relate to juvenile clients; participate in assessment and program meetings; work independently, meet deadlines, and manage time efficiently; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures and use initiative and judgment in completing tasks and responsibilities; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; teach socialization and living skills to individuals with various learning levels; transport juveniles; plan and supervise program activities; establish and maintain records, reports and statistical data; courteously meet and deal effectively and consult with employees, juveniles and their families, schools, law enforcement officials, courts, physicians, service agencies, community and the public.

Education, experience and training: Bachelor's degree in social services, psychology or a related field and two years experience in the care and treatment of youth. Master’s degree preferred. At the time of appointment, must possess valid Oregon driver's license.

Desirable qualifications: Experience in residential care or related experience; experience in counseling or casework; training or experience in specific treatment issues.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THIS POSITION

Work is performed primarily under the general direction of the Juvenile Services Facility & Development Manager. The employee receives general instructions regarding the scope and approach to projects or assignments, but procedures and problem resolution are left to employee discretion and interpretation. Employee estimates and manages time efficiently. Work is reviewed periodically to ensure determinations and decisions made are in compliance to department policy and procedures.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within departmental policies and procedures, state and county statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances; accepted social work principles and practices. Incumbent exercises independent judgment when applying guidelines that are specific and well defined. Deviations from guidelines are discussed with supervisor.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is performed in a residential setting that requires participating in work and recreational activities with the clients; must be able to restrain hostile youth when necessary. Physical demands may require bending, gripping with fingers and hands, hearing voice conversation, alarms and buzzers, keyboarding, lifting up to 60 pounds, pulling, pushing, reaching, running and walking. A reasonable amount of driving may be required.