The therapist position at Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home is threefold in that the position offers therapeutic, consultative, and educational services within the Agency. The therapist’s primary duties include providing professional mental health services such as individual, group, and family therapy; case consultation services; and education/training associated with aspects of emotional and spiritual wellness for children and adults within the MDCA&CH community. This position functions as an integral member of the MDCH Social Services team.
Major Responsibilities:
- Clinically evaluates and assesses the nature and extent of an individual’s mental health condition, psychosocial history, and/or psychological and educational assessment information
- Conducts clinical assessments, diagnoses, and develops/implements treatment plans for individuals served
- Provides referral services for specialized services when indicated
- Provides appropriate treatment using individual, group, and family therapy
- Schedules and coordinates therapy sessions
- Provides team input and coordinates client care both internally and externally with relevant agencies on behalf of each participant
- Performs in-home triage and crisis intervention support for MDCH participants as necessary
- Meets with individuals and families served to interpret and explain social and emotional factors pertaining to mental health, wellness, and strategies for alleviating emotional and environmental problems
- Documents and maintains professional client records, including therapy session notes, progress reports, performance outcome measures; prepares reports as needed
- Consults with MDCA&CH staff and relevant community agencies on behalf of the MDCA&CH community and participants served
- Conducts training for MDCA&CH on providing trauma-informed care, psychological wellness, grief, healthy coping strategies, self-care, strategies for effective parenting, and other wellness-related topics
- Remains vigilant for signs of emotional, developmental, or health-related issues with children in care and reports concerns to participants' parents and supervisor
- Actively integrates strategies to improve the intergenerational outcomes for children and families associated with MDCA&CH
- Attends required meetings and trainings
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must have good written and oral communication skills
- Must have sound judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
- Must be able to function independently and be able to seek guidance when necessary to assist in working with children and families
- Must have good instructional skills
- Must have strong interpersonal skills
- Must be able to relate to children and families in a positive manner
- Must be able to function as a positive member of the Social Services team.
- Must ensure the rights of each individual served are protected in the delivery of mental health services
- Must show attentiveness to the needs and safety of children
- Must demonstrate strong organizational and time management skills
- Must be able to establish and maintain appropriate professional boundaries with children and families
- Must maintain a professional, confidential work environment
- Knowledge of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
- Knowledge of and ability to use Microsoft Office Suite and web browsers effectively
- Knowledge of child/adolescent development
- Knowledge of child abuse and substance abuse issues
- Knowledge of family dynamics
- Knowledge of anger management and coping skills
- Knowledge of professional ethics and relevant local, state, and federal laws that govern mental health practice
All services provided shall align with the MDCA&CH Statement of Faith and the organization's vision, mission, and
values.
- Must have a master's degree from an accredited university in Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work, or Marriage & Family Therapy
- Must be a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMCH); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); or Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Florida (Fla. Stat. 491.002-0.149)
- Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be able to pass a Fingerprint Background Check
- Must be knowledgeable of Trauma Informed Care practices
- Must be able to pass Child/Infant CPR and First Aid Training
- Must complete online Mandated Reporter Training Course for the State of Florida
- Must be a practicing Christian counselor and active member of a church (preference given to members of the Church of Christ)