Counselor I - Community Based Counseling

LifeWorks of Austin, TX is looking for a Counselor I to join our Community Based Counseling team!

As a provisionally licensed counselor under immediate supervision, the Counselor I in the Community Based Counseling program provides counseling to transition aged youth 16-26 that have experienced traumatic life events, frequently exacerbated by involvement in the foster care or criminal justice systems, homelessness, growing up in extreme poverty, or coming from a military family. Services are intended to be community based and may be provided at a safe, mutually agreeable location in Travis County such as client’s home or workplace, park, café, or a LifeWorks site. Full Time and Part Time positions available.

This full time, exempt position earns a competitive rate ranging from $53,331 - $75,381 depending upon experience. Benefits are also included, which consist of 24 PTO days per year (accrued); 11 paid holidays per year; a premium-free employee medical plan with $100 per month HSA contribution (plus other affordable employee or family medical, dental, and vision options!); a retirement savings plan with 50% match on the first 6% of contributions, and much more!

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides community and office-based individual, couples, group and/or family services. .
• Regularly and effectively assess and manage incidents and crisis situations, using de-escalation and safety planning techniques as appropriate. Administers client services which may include:
  • initial and ongoing assessment;
  • diagnosis, session planning and treatment planning;
  • record keeping;
  • case management tasks as appropriate;
  • evaluation of client progress;
  • contacting and collaborating with internal and external collaterals;
• Completing follow-ups with clients out of contact, as needed; Provides appropriate referrals; keeps apprised of available community resources. Maintains documentation of all services in accordance with agency and funding requirements.
• Works collaboratively with Lifeworks program staff and other community agencies to provide wrap-around services and help ensure client’s basic needs are met (ex: provider collaboration, direct client assistance, or resource referrals).
• Provides community outreach as required by program. Follows licensure requirements as determined by the licensing Board, program, agency, and/or grants.
• Completes required trainings in a timely manner and maintains documentation of trainings and CEUs.
• Maintains the required car insurance to continuous ability to transport clients or travel to clients appointments.
• Assists with program development and quality assurance, including conducting file reviews and actively participating in program improvement initiatives. Provides support and supervision to interns as appropriate.
• Participates in agency and community committees which may include agency working groups or community collaboration initiatives as approved by supervisor.
• Attends team meetings, supervision, and clinical supervision.
• Other duties as assigned.

For Bilingual Spanish-service staff only:

• Provides services and support in Spanish, translates documents, and assists in special projects related to the Spanish speaking community.

QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Requires a Masters degree in Social Work, Counseling or a related field;
• Holds initial licensure (ex: LMSW, LPC-A, LMFT-A) or is able to obtain within 6 months of hire;
• Requires 6+ months direct clinical experience;

CORE COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS

• Client Focus - Builds transformational relationships with clients and delivers mission-centered solutions.
• Collaborates and Adapts - Builds partnerships and works collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives and fulfill our mission; adapts one’s approach and demeanor to meet the shifting demands of different situations.
• Honors Differences - Embraces different perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds by being open to others’ opinions, ideas, and experiences; develops an inclusive culture that creates solutions to meet the needs of our clients.
• Nimble Learning - Actively learns from successes, failures, and others’ experiences, and shows a willingness to pivot and try new things.
• Builds Trust - Gains the confidence and trust of others through integrity, dependability, and authenticity.
• Action Oriented - Takes initiative, shows resourcefulness, and directs focus and energy on mission-critical opportunities, challenges, and changes.
• Possesses knowledge of and ability to use strengths-based counseling, client-centered approach as required by individual program.
• May require competent bilingual language skills, including reading, writing, and speaking.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid driver's license within 30 days.
• Holds initial licensure (ex: LMSW, LPC-A, LMFT-A) or must obtain within 6 months of hire. Standard First-Aid and CPR Certification as required by individual program.

ABOUT LIFEWORKS
With more than 50 years of experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, youth aging out of foster care, young adults, and young parents, LifeWorks is committed to solving youth homelessness through housing, mental health, education, and workforce services. Our vision is a Central Texas where every young person has a place to call home, a sense of belonging, and the support to pursue a life they love.

We provide a full range of support services for vulnerable youth, ensuring that every young person has access to a safe home, the chance to heal, and opportunities to learn and work. Through innovative problem-solving, shared accountability, and evidence-based solutions, we are relentless in achieving real, sustainable, and measurable results for the clients we serve.

A career at LifeWorks offers opportunities to grow professionally while making an immediate, lasting impact on the lives of youth and families in our community. Join us in building a future where every young person has the stability and support to thrive.