North Homes Children & Family Services is seeking a compassionate and dedicated School-Based Youth Counselor to join our team. This position offers an opportunity to work in a supportive, therapeutic setting, providing mental health services to youth in the day treatment program. Under the direction of a mental health professional and/or mental health practitioner, the School-Based Youth Counselor will play a critical role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and therapeutic progress of clients.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Care

• Ensure the safety and well-being of clients at all times
• Provide appropriate supervision for clients in the community, on trips, and during other activities
• Maintain awareness of clients' whereabouts and needs
• Support and implement the client’s individual treatment plan 

Safety, Housekeeping, and Maintenance

• Ensure program cleanliness standards are met daily
• Report safety hazards and maintain a safe environment
• Adhere to proper vehicle maintenance and cleanliness standards
• Encourage clients to maintain a clean and organized space
• Follow all agency, facility, and program policies to ensure safety and security

Therapeutic Environment

• Foster and maintain a positive, therapeutic environment daily
• Understand and act in accordance with the agency’s philosophy and goals
• Be familiar with each client's treatment needs and current level of functioning
• Participate in daily therapeutic group sessions
• Build rapport with each client and create a productive working relationship
• Promote and demonstrate values of respect, responsibility, and caring

Handle with Care Restraint Training

• Complete Handle with Care training during orientation and annually
• Lead and monitor the reduction of Restrictive Procedures
• Conduct Restrictive Procedures as needed while maintaining a safe environment

Communication

• Maintain open, respectful, and clear communication with supervisors, therapists, administrators, and team members
• Provide timely and accurate information regarding client progress and concerns
• Ensure all required documentation is completed and submitted on time

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED  
• Must be at least 21 years old and have a valid Minnesota Drivers License
• Prior experience in mental health or related field is preferred  
• Knowledge of therapeutic practices and principles is preferred
• Ability to work with a diverse group of clients  
• Must be non-judgmental in regards to lifestyle, race and/or economic status of clients
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills  
• Ability to work in a team and independently  
• Handle with Care training or willingness to complete upon hire