Residence Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

  Reports To: Program Supervisor

Program: Licensed Residential Services

Location: Garnerville, NY

Hours Per Week: Per Diem (as needed)
FLSA Status: Per Diem,   Non-exempt
Salary Range: $19 hr - $22/hr

Summary Description: The Residence Counselor is responsible for tasks relating to the daily operation of the licensed residential services. The Residence Counselor will serve as a role model, providing a home-like atmosphere in which dignity and respect enhance each person’s existence. They will participate in person-centered service planning and provide restorative services for each resident. This means keeping things organized around the house and making sure we know where everyone is so that everyone feels safe and at home! The residents we support are independent and thrive when staff embrace creativity and fun. 

Responsibilities:  

• Counsel and assist residents in the development of necessary skills required in decision-making, problem solving, interpersonal skills, and goal acquisition, and document their progress on a regular basis.
• Supervise and assist residents in daily living activities, including personal health care and grooming, individual clothing care, personal belongings, bedroom and living quarters.
• Supervise and teach (through demonstration) food and meal preparation, purchase and storage, including sound nutritional practice; use of household and small appliances; and use of public transportation.
• Train and assist residents in other areas pertinent and necessary for independent living such as basic housekeeping, money management, use of community resources, and all ADL skills.
• Supervise self-medication program of residents. Carry out prescribed medication programs established and documented in case records. Under direction of Program Coordinator, contact physicians and other treatment personnel when necessary to assure compliance.
• Respond immediately to emergency situations by following emergency procedures.  Educate and train residents to identify and access health-related and emergency services.
• Responsible for the electronic health record of residents and all necessary paperwork, including: assessments, goal/service plan writing, service treatment plans/service plan review, and monthly progress note documentation.
• Maintain all other necessary records pertaining to the resident, e.g., recording incident reports, acquisition of Authorization for Restorative Services and filing of collateral information.
• Plan, implement, and participate in recreational activities.
• Use behavioral intervention skills in situations which demand immediate attention to ensure the safety of residents and staff.  
• Provide encouragement and feedback to residents concerning behavior and functioning.
• Attend and complete all GMH or state-sponsored In-Service Training Programs related to position, program or agency goals.
• Continually observe, address and report maintenance needs of the residence and property. Maintain a clean and safe environment, which involves housekeeping responsibilities.
• Transport residents in agency vehicle to community appointments, shopping, etc., as requested.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Competencies:  

• Ability to effectively utilize de-escalation strategies to support residents.
• Ability to engage clients through the development of a therapeutic relationship.
• Ability to deal with crisis situations and adapt to new or changing conditions.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of wellness, recovery, coping skills, relapse prevention strategies related to mental illness in general and physical wellness in particular.
• Demonstrated empathy and compassion in supporting residents.
• Ability to work as part of a team and participate in a group process of goal setting and problem solving.
• Advocacy for residents’ rights and access to community resources.
• Knowledge of community resources and mental health services.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):  

• Achievement of residents' rehabilitation goals.
• Effective collaboration within the multidisciplinary team.
• Timely and accurate documentation of resident progress within established agency/program requirements.
• Participation in ongoing professional development activities.
• Compliance with ethical standards and regulations.

Requirements:  

• A Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field; OR an Associate’s degree in a human services-related field and 3 years of experience in human services; OR a High School diploma and 5 years of experience in human services.
• Experience working with diverse populations recovering from mental illness.
• Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture required in Nanuet House.
• Must have a valid Driver's License and a driving record that is satisfactory to our insurance carrier.
• Maintain New York State Defensive Driving certification within 30 days of hire.
• Experience with EHR (Electronic Health Records).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and database management systems. 
• Fluency in English (Reading, Writing, Speaking). 
• Must be cleared and maintain clearance by applicable regulatory authorities as required.   
• Legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

Special Considerations:  

• Ability to use stairs (2–3 flights) within the residence.
• Occasionally, the employee will have to carry items up and down the stairs and lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  
• Must be able to intervene with residents’ behaviors.  
• Must be able to conduct an evacuation of the facility in the event of an emergency.
• Position is scheduled 40 hours per week or less, which may include evenings and weekends.
• The Residence Counselor will remain on site, on-duty until relieved.
• Hours per week, reporting structure, and location are subject to change per program needs.

Mandated Reporter:

This is a Mandated Reporter position.  The NYS Justice Center legislation defines anyone who has regular and substantial contact with any person with special needs as a “custodian” under the law and, therefore, a mandated reporter.  You can be held liable by both the civil and criminal legal systems for intentionally failing to make a report. 

Greater Mental Health of New York is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Greater Mental Health of New York is commi