Create Lasting Change. For over 46 years, A Safe Place has been a beacon of hope in Lake County, empowering survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking to rebuild their lives. Join our mission to provide safety, foster independence, and create brighter futures.

Through our Youth Empowerment and Healing Program, we foster resilience in young survivors with therapeutic support, empowering activities, and healing-focused initiatives. Together, we create a community where every survivor can thrive. 

Your Role: CYEM Bilingual School Counselor

 As a CYEM Bilingual School Counselor, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering counseling, therapeutic groups, and youth development programs. Your work will ensure students feel supported, empowered, and equipped to overcome challenges, fostering healing and growth. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide youth development presentations and individual counseling sessions in schools.
• Offer confidential support to students, addressing peer pressure and other concerns.
• Assess and refer students to appropriate services and resources.
• Educate students on the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, Orders of Protection, and stalking laws.
• Maintain accurate client records per agency and funding requirements.
• Assist with grant reporting tasks and actively participate in staff meetings, case management, and training.
• Collaborate with the team to ensure holistic support for youth.
• Engage clients authentically while maintaining clear boundaries.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds
• Align practices with professional ethics, such as the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Work effectively as part of the team; collaborating effectively across the organization.
• Actively participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and team activities.
• Perform other organizational and program-related duties as assigned.
• Complete IM+CANS certification, 40-hour Domestic Violence, and other required training..

 What You’ll Bring:

• Master’s degree in social work, counseling, or a related field.
• Valid Illinois LPC or LSW license required.
• Bilingual Spanish fluency is required.
• Familiarity with domestic violence dynamics and survivor challenges.
• Experience in crisis intervention, case management, or advocacy.
• Strong trauma-informed skills, communication, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Effective time management, organizational, and prioritization skills.
• Familiarity with electronic medical records is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance required.

What You’ll Experience:

• Schedule: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM with flexibility for after-school hours as needed.
• Professional office settings and secure shelters.
• 70% direct service commitment (60% for supervisors).
• Active participation in 70% of staff meetings.
• Commitment to 2–4-hour shifts for holiday shelter coverage, as needed.
• Travel may be required for client supply pickups, outreach, and training.
• Occasional lifting to 20 pounds, navigating stairs, or moving across facilities. Reasonable accommodation will be provided as needed.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $58,000–$70,000 annually, paid bi-weekly (26 pay periods).
• Compensation Factors: Based on grant funding, skills, experience, and expertise.
• Full-Time Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending account (FSA); 401(k); paid time off; Employee Assistance Program; and a company-paid lunch break.
• Other Roles: While benefits are not included, part-time, intern, and contractor positions offer valuable experience and flexibility.

Why Join Us?

• Be a part of a compassionate, mission-driven team.
• Inspire resilience and healing in young survivors.
• Gain professional experience in a compassionate, collaborative environment.

Commitment to Inclusion:
A Safe Place is an equal-opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and supports an inclusive work environment. 

Transform Lives. Apply Today.
Join A Safe Place as a CYEM Bilingual School Counselor and be the advocate, connector, and future builder our youth need.  Apply today and transform lives — including your own.