Mental Health Counselor/Associate

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT HL7N

We are a residential treatment center for youth with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, offering outpatient behavioral health and on-site medical services. Located on 55 peaceful acres, we provide a safe, supportive environment grounded in traditional, cultural, and spiritual values. Our holistic program blends Indigenous teachings with evidence-based practices to support healing, growth, and resilience in both Native and non-Native youth, fostering respect, honesty, generosity, and cultural identity.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Mental Health Counselor provides outpatient mental health services to adolescents, families, and community members, with involvement in residential treatment services as part of an integrated continuum of care. The counselor delivers individual, family, and group counseling and works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to provide trauma‑informed, culturally responsive services that support emotional well‑being and stability.

Responsibilities include completing mental health assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, coordinating care with residential and community providers, participating in treatment team meetings, and maintaining accurate clinical documentation in accordance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide therapeutic services to adolescents and families in individual, group, and family settings using developmentally appropriate, trauma‑informed, and evidence‑based approaches.
• Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments, interpret findings, formulate diagnostic impressions consistent with current DSM criteria, and identify co‑occurring conditions or risk factors to inform treatment planning.
• Develop, implement, and update person‑centered treatment plans with measurable goals, culturally responsive interventions, and ongoing review; modify plans based on progress, engagement, and changing clinical needs.
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary team (including medical, substance use, cultural programming, and education staff) to coordinate care, participate in case conferences, and align interventions across services.
• Provide consultation and clinical support to team members regarding presentation, risk considerations, and effective engagement strategies for adolescents and families.
• Respond to crises and support safety planning, including suicide risk identification and escalation in accordance with organizational protocols.
• Complete timely, accurate, and compliant documentation of assessments, clinical services, treatment planning, and outcomes in accordance with organizational policy, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional ethics consistent with licensure requirements, organizational policies, and applicable laws; obtain informed consent and manage releases of information appropriately.
• Engage families and caregivers through education, skills development, and coordinated goal‑setting to support treatment progress, continuity of care, and aftercare planning.
• Participate in discharge and transition planning, including coordination of step‑down services, school reentry, community supports, and follow‑up care; prepare clinically relevant summaries to support continuity.
• Monitor treatment progress and outcomes, document effectiveness or barriers to progress, and adjust interventions to maintain clinical appropriateness and medical necessity.
• Contribute to program development and staff education initiatives, including training or consultation on mental health and trauma‑informed practices, as requested.
• Adhere to organizational policies supporting non‑coercive, trauma‑informed de‑escalation and behavior management practices consistent with accreditation standards.
• Coordinate referrals and advocate for client needs across systems, including schools, healthcare providers, and community or cultural programs.
• Maintain core professional competencies through supervision, licensure‑related continuing education, and ongoing training aligned with recognized standards (e.g., CARF, Joint Commission).
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, or a closely related behavioral health field from an accredited institution, including coursework in counseling theory, ethics, assessment/diagnosis, and supervised clinical practice.
• Must hold or be eligible for Washington State licensure as LMHC, LMFT, or LICSW.
  Associate licensure (LMHCA, LMFTA, or LICSWA) is acceptable for candidates working toward full licensure under supervision.

• Clinical experience providing mental health services; fully licensed candidates typically have two or more years of post‑master’s experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of DSM‑5 diagnostic criteria, adolescent development, trauma‑informed care, and co‑occurring disorders.
• Experience working within a multidisciplinary team serving diverse populations.
• Familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems and applicable state, federal, and HIPAA requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License with ability to travel between sites as required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Child Mental Health Specialist designation.
• Experience in outpatient, community‑based, or integrated behavioral health programs serving adolescents and families.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.
• Familiarity with ASAM criteria, integrated care models, and accreditation standards (e.g., CARF, Joint Commission, SAMHSA).
• Experience working with Native American youth, families, and communities.
• Prior experience in a supervisory or leadership role in a behavioral health or non‑profit setting.

PHYSICAL DEMAND
While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be required to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; bend, stoop, or crouch; lift and/or move up to 10 pounds; use hands to handle or feel objects and reach with arms; and communicate clearly and effectively in person and by phone. Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is typically performed in an indoor, collaborative setting. The noise level is moderate, and interactions frequently involve communication and teamwork beyond basic work instructions.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

For full-time employees (30+ hours per week), HL7N provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote health, well-being, and financial stability. These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting and valuing our team members.

• 100% medical, dental, and vision insurance premium is paid by HL7N the first of the month after60 days of employment.
• Up to $6,000 health reimbursement annually via Navia Debit Card for eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses.

• $75,000 life insurance policy and disability benefits, 100%employer-paidafter 90 days (FT EE).
• 22daysof paid time off (PTO) annually, plus 12 paid holidays and up to 8 sick days per year (after 90-day probationary period). Employees are eligible for a Wellness Week after one year of employment.
• Employees are eligible for a 403(b) Retirement Plan with up to a 6% employer contribution after 12 months of employment, contingent upon working at least1,000 hours.
• HL7N qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This job description is not intended to list all duties or limit responsibilities. The Healing Lodge reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, or requirements as necessary. Every employee is expected to contribute to the success of the organization by performing assigned tasks and assisting as needed.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

The Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. As a tribal organization operating with an agreement with the Indian Health Services (IHS) and pursuant to our Board’s direction, the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is required by law to provide absolute preference in employment to American Indians and Alaska Natives who are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe as defined by the Secretary of the Interior. Proof of tribal enrollment is required for Indian Preference consideration.