Mental Health Counselor

A Residential Counselor II provides direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a small group residential setting or an individual living arrangement. They work together with the people we serve, their families, friends, employers, and other support staff to transform their lives by either building independence skills or increasing each person's quality of life.

Residential Counselors have a range of duties including administering medication under the Medication Administration Plan (MAC), implementing treatment plans, and assisting people with activities of daily living such as household chores and cooking. They also strengthen residents' connection to their community by providing transportation on outings such as shopping and doctor’s appointments.

Assists in developing, implementing, and documenting treatment, including ISP/IPs and clinical programs.

Provides training and support to persons served, including rehabilitative interventions, behavioral interventions, fire & safety regulations, appointment scheduling, money management, ADLs, grocery shopping, meal planning, cooking, household chores, and related areas.

Performs hands‑on tasks to facilitate implementation of support plans.

Assists individuals in becoming fully integrated into their communities.

Assists residents with community-based support and resource services; plans recreational and social activities to promote emotional well‑being and improve quality of life.

Assesses residents’ physical and emotional status and reports changes to supervisor.

Monitors residents’ funds as needed.

Maintains records for persons served, collects behavior and academic data, and maintains progress notes.

Enters information into electronic health record and documents all information related to incidents, programs, and routine activities in a communication log.

Stores, administers, documents, and disposes of medication for persons served consistent with MAC requirements, funding source regulations, and Company policy.

Participates in all mandated training and staff meetings, assists with the orientation of new staff, and ensures compliance with all internal and external regulatory bodies.

Ensures program site safety and maintenance at all times, including housekeeping, lawn mowing, snow shoveling, and garbage removal.

Complies with all corporate and divisional policies and procedures, including safe work practices, workers’ compensation, universal precautions, and exposure control.

Completes various paperwork and logs and online data records including communication logs, community membership logs, chore schedules, timesheets, and application forms.

Functions as a human rights advocate, provides physical intervention and/or first aid in the event of a behavior or medical emergency, and serves as a reporter to the Disabled Persons Protections Commission.

Maintains required certifications, reviews and replies to work emails, and follows all Vinfen administrative policies.

Participatory planning techniques

Physical personal management skills

Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues

Ability to learn and use online tools such as Microsoft Outlook and an electronic health record

Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community‑based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self‑determination of the people we serve. Vinfen’s 3,500 dedicated employees are highly trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in over 550 sites throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

At least one year of experience and/or training in a related function is preferred.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Driving is a requirement for this position using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. If using a personal vehicle, you must possess and maintain adequate insurance, a safe driving record subject to annual checks, and a valid driver’s license at the time of employment. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer.

First Aid required within two weeks of hire