POSITION TITLE: Group Counseling Support Specialist (Art Therapy Programs)
REPORTS TO: Director of Community Wellness and Prevention
JOB TYPE: In-Person Canandaigua NY (Thursday evenings 2.5-3 hours)
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
WAGE BAND: $25-$35 per hour, commensurate with experience and credentials
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION:
The is a local nonprofit that has been a center of support in the Finger Lakes since 1998. The Partnership offers programs and services to strengthen the community and address the needs of individuals and families. Programs include the Community Support Center, Epic Zone Youth Clubhouses in Geneva and Bloomfield, Ontario County Youth Court, County Community Liaison Team, Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, Suicide Prevention Coalition, Veterans Coalition, Leadership Ontario, and leads a monthly popup food pantry. Our team is composed of passionate and dedicated individuals working together to make a meaningful impact in our community.
PURPOSE OF JOB:
At the heart of this job is a simple but powerful mission: to be a caring, steady presence for teens and young adults as they explore who they are through creativity.
The Group Counseling Support Specialist will sit alongside participants at our Letters & Lattes program and other art-based groups, sparking conversations, building trust, and creating an environment where teens feel truly seen and valued.
The Group Counseling Support Specialist plays a vital role in supporting this partnership program between The Partnership for Ontario County and Finger Lakes Community College. This person will work directly alongside the fine art professor to engage youth in meaningful conversation, provide emotional support, and help nurture safe, affirming spaces for teens and young adults. The ideal candidate is trauma-informed, experienced with adolescents, and LGBTQIA+ sensitive. They will bring discretion, empathy, and presence into group spaces, while supporting youth in their creative and personal growth journeys.
ACTIVITIES AND FUNCTIONS:
Group Support and Engagement
- Attend and actively participate in Letters & Lattes teen group sessions on Thursday evenings.
- Build trust and rapport with teens by engaging in meaningful, supportive conversations.
- Provide trauma-informed guidance and emotional support during group activities.
- Partner with the Art Teacher to ensure sessions are inclusive, safe, and engaging.
Counseling Support
- Identify when a participant may need referral for individual counseling and connect with appropriate staff for follow-up.
- Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.
- Model cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices in all interactions.
Collaboration and Administration
- Participate in team check-ins, supervision, and ongoing training as required.
- Support evaluation and reporting requirements related to group programming.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or related field OR equivalent experience.
- At least 2 years of experience working directly with adolescents in group, class, or counseling settings.
- Demonstrated trauma-informed approach and strong interpersonal skills.
- Sensitivity and commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth.
- Ability to work evenings (Thursday availability required).
Preferred:
- Master’s degree and/or NYS licensure (LMSW, LCSW, LMHC, or equivalent).
- Experience with group counseling, expressive arts therapy, or creative youth programming.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish).
The Partnership for Ontario County is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Job Types: Part-time, Contract
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Ability to Commute:
- Canandaigua, NY 14424 (Required)
Work Location: In person
