Family and Children's Services is seeking a compassionate and culturally competent mental health counselor to join our team. In this role, you will provide therapeutic services that address the emotional and behavioral challenges of youth and their families, with a focus on maintaining youth in the home and community. The counselor will work with families involved in the child welfare system, including those served by the Department of Child ProtectionPermanency (DCPP). Services may be delivered in the child's home, in-office, or other community locations.
Key Responsibilities:
Department of Child ProtectionPermanency (DCPP) Programs:
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Provide culturally competent therapeutic services to families involved in the child welfare system
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Model appropriate parent/child interactions and intervene as needed during therapy sessions
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Assess, observe, and document parent-child interactions
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Participate in treatment team meetings and provide clinical assessments
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Complete client-centered treatment plans and progress updates
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Collaborate with referral providers, agencies, and schools for holistic support
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Use evidence-based or evidence-informed treatment strategies to promote healthy behaviors and strengthen family dynamics
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Implement interventions through a trauma-informed approach
General Responsibilities:
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Maintain case documentation using the agency's Electronic Health Record and DCPP tools
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Generate quarterly reports to measure outcomes
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Ensure accurate written and verbal communication
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Participate in quarterly quality assurance activities and record reviews
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Comply with state confidentiality laws and child abuse reporting laws
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Provide timely Treatment Summaries to referring agencies
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Adhere to Utilization Review criteria for admission, continuation, and completion of services
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Perform other related duties as necessary to fulfill job requirements
QualificationsRequirements:
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Master's degree and professional license (e.g., LSW, LCSW, LAMFT, LMFT, LAC, LPC)
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Experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and families
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Familiarity with the NJ Child Welfare System and high risk populations is a plus
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Experience with evidence-based treatments preferred
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
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Knowledge of Electronic Health Record systems
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Valid driver's license and clean driving record
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Bilingual (Spanish-English) preferred
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Strong organizational and communication skills
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Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
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Evening and/or Saturday hours may be required
What's in it for you:
Supportive leadership, professional development opportunities, competitive benefits, generous paid time off, employee assistance program, employee discount and perks program