Cheshire Direct Care Counselor (Cheshire House)

Residential Support Counselor

The Residential Support Counselor (RSC) supports a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing direct care, guidance, and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This role ensures a safe, high-quality, structured, trauma-informed care in a therapeutic, supportive, and person-centered environment while fostering independence and life skills development. The RSC will implement behavior management strategies, assist with daily living activities, and support residents in residential, group homes, and community settings.

Schedules are flexible, may include early mornings, evenings, overnights, weekdays, weekends, holidays, mandated overtime, mandated holds, and on call responsibilities. The RSC reports to the program designated supervisor.

Monitor and support residents' behavior using trauma-informed care and positive reinforcement techniques.

Implement individualized behavioral support plans (PBSP) to promote skill-building and adaptation of positive alternative behaviors.

Provide direct supervision, mentoring, and crisis intervention as needed.

Provide crisis intervention support using approved Physical/Psychological Management Training (PMT) techniques.

Secure the facility by performing safety checks, monitoring medication storage, and ensuring proper supervision of residents.

May be mandated to maintain designated level of care within the residential program. This includes being sent to alternative locations for appropriate level of supervision, medical care, and/or medication administration.

Skills:

Ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with residents, families, and team members.

Active listening and conflict resolution skills.

Strong relationship-building skills with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and basic Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, email).

Knowledge:

Knowledge of hygiene, medication administration (if applicable), emergency protocols, and safety procedures.

Understanding of positive behavioral supports, reinforcement, and behavior management plans.

Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and ethical standards in residential care.

Abilities:

Flexibility to adjust to different situations, behaviors, or resident needs.

Balance empathy with professionalism in emotionally challenging environments.

Capable of lifting, standing, or performing physical tasks as needed (e.g., helping residents with mobility).

Education, Experience and Other Qualifications:

Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred: Associate or Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related human services field.

Experience: At least one year working with individuals with emotional, behavioral, or developmental disabilities in a residential or community setting.

Valid driver's license and ability to meet transportation requirements as needed.

Ability to complete and maintain relevant certifications (e.g., First Aid/CPR, crisis intervention).

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.