Mental Health Counselor/Therapist

POSITION TITLE: Mental Health Counselor/Therapist

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, School Counseling, or related field.

Valid state license, in one or more of the following: School Counseling (Must hold proper certification through the Arkansas Department of Education), Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Preferred:

• Three years’ experience providing mental health services for children and youth to adulthood.

• Current Arkansas Medicaid provider number, or willingness to obtain one.

CONTRACT: 215 Days

EVALUATOR:

Mental Health Counselor will work under the direct supervision of the Director of Student Services to ensure continuity of high-quality mental health services for K-12 students in General Education, Special Education, and/ or Alternative Learning Environment.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

A school district employed mental health counselor is responsible for providing counseling, therapeutic services, and support services to a diverse caseload of students who may experience mental health issues, behavioral challenges, or traumatic experiences. Work collaboratively with school-based counseling services, or other outside agencies for the benefit of the district’s students.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Establish positive, trusting rapport with clients, families, and school staff.
• Assess clients mental condition based on review of client information, interviews, observation, and evaluation, as well as in crisis and determine collaboration with other staff members or outside agencies.
• Create individualized plans according to patient needs and circumstances.
• Meet regularly with clients to provide counseling treatment.
• Conduct ongoing assessments and evaluations of client progress both inside and outside of the classroom and adjust plans as necessary.
• Involve, collaborate, and advise family members when appropriate.
• Serve as a client advocate to coordinate required services, or to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
• Follow all safety protocols and maintain client confidentiality.
• Collaborate with other stakeholders to provide support for students and staff in various learning environments throughout the school district.
• Promote the district’s vision and mission.
• Keep an accurate record of all counseling and guidance activities.
• Analyze data to determine program effectiveness and identify program needs.
• Protect the confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with state laws and Board policies.

ESSENTIAL JOB SKILLS:

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as a collaborative team member
• Ability to communicate with compassion and empathy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Superb organizational skills with attention to detail

• Highly effective organizational skills