RESIDENTIAL YOUTH COUNSELOR (DEGREED POSITION)

JOB SUMMARY: 

To promote the mission of PATH to help individuals achieve a more independent and fulfilling life by being an effective team member. The RTA provides direct care including support, structure, assistance, skill training and therapeutic interventions, in groups and with individuals, in collaboration with RTF treatment team. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Bachelor’s degree in human services field from an accredited college/university and 1 year direct experience working with youth. Valid PA Driver’s License. Ability to relate positively to youth and young adults with serious behavioral health issues. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:    

Ability to perform crisis management interventions including restraints once training is successfully completed. Ability to walk distances during psych rehab activities and other community outings with residents. 

 SPECIFIC DUTIES:     

1. Provide supervision of residents at all times 
2. Maintain a supportive, therapeutic relationship with each resident 
3. Be aware of each resident’s service plan, history, medications, current needs and any special accommodations required by the resident 
4. Act as a role model at all times, maintaining appropriate boundaries and demonstrating effective communication skills 
5. Maintain clear and consistent expectations of each resident while maintaining a safe, supportive environment 
6. Implement, on a consistent basis, direct service interventions as defined in the individual’s service and psychiatric rehabilitation plans 
7. Oversee and actively assist in the completion of household chores ensuring the home is neat and clean at all times 
8. Maintain open and ongoing collaboration and communication with all team members including the therapist, psychiatrist, nurse and psych rehab specialist 
9. Maintain ongoing communication with each resident’s family/significant others utilizing diplomacy and tact and creating a welcoming environment 
10. Ensure any family concerns are shared immediately with a supervisor 
11. Participate in household shopping 
12. Coordinate, facilitate and engage in regular social activities both on and off campus with the residents 
13. Transport and accompany residents to appointments and activities, as assigned 
14. Provide program/shift coverage as assigned 
15. Upon successful completion of training, monitor residents taking their prescribed medications 
16. Provide crisis intervention in a calm therapeutic manner when indicated 
17. Upon successful completion of training and in accordance with PATH policies and procedures, implement approved manual restrictive procedures if absolutely necessary to prevent a resident from harming himself or others 
18. Follow the ‘When to Call a Supervisor’ protocol which includes immediately contacting a supervisor, or the on call supervisor, regarding any incidents, issues or concerns 
19.  Participate in scheduled meetings to include: stakeholder’s meetings, case conferences and community meetings 
20. As assigned, schedule necessary medical and dental appointments for residents 
21. Collaborate with schools or other programs residents attend 
22. Ensure all required documentation is completed in timely, comprehensive and legible manner and in accordance with PATH policies and procedures