Residential Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

24hrs: Fri 3p-11p, Sat 7a-3p, & Sun 7a-3p

Residential Counselors in our ACCS Intensive Behavioral Residential Program provide rehabilitation services to persons being served whom have transitioned from state hospital, who require intensive supervision and treatment due to mental illness as well as challenging behavioral issues such as physical assault, problematic sexual behavior, and behaviors resulting from intellectual disabilities. Our community based Group Living Environments (GLE) are designed to improve the quality of life and support the recovery process of adults with mental illness. The dedicated staff members provide support in the areas including monitoring individuals for personal safety, personal finance, and van transportation while helping individuals achieve their Individual Action Plans (IAP) ! Staff members engage the residents in a variety of stimulating, therapeutic activities to build cognitive, physical, and social skills. Persons served are also encouraged to become active members of their communities including engaging in employment, volunteer activities as well as social and recreational activities.

*This position is union represented by a bargaining unit of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. (AFSME).

Responsibilities:

General Statement of Duties:

To assist adults with Mental Illness living in supervised community based residential settings (CBFS) in order to ensure their safety and well-being in a manner that promotes growth, independence and dignity.

Responsibilities:

1. Support individuals in the completion of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) tasks, which include but are not limited to: cooking, cleaning, general maintenance, shopping and money management.

2. Teach socialization skills and activities of daily living including: household maintenance; self-care and hygiene; self-awareness and human development, menu planning, food shopping and preparation; money management skills/budgeting; transportation and community orientation; consumer skills; and utilization of community resources.

3. Assist in the development and implementation of Program Specific Treatment Plans (PSTP’s) including implementation of behavioral objectives/plans.

4. Participate in ISP meetings, quarterly reviews and other meetings as required by supervisor.

5. Follow the Department of Public Health’s (DPH) Medication Administration Program (MAP) policies, which include, but are not limited to: training requirements, medication administration, medication security, and corresponding documentation.

6. Record and appropriately utilize necessary data, daily progress notes, staff log and complete all other PSTP and program required documentation.

7. Transport individuals served to and from day programs, medical appointments and other activities as required. Maintains a valid driver’s license in primary state of residence and follows the requirements of BAMSI Safe Driver Policy PE-48-12.

8. Provide opportunities for leisure time activities and foster independence in the choice and participation of those activities.

9. Organize, develop and implement group and individual activities which serve to integrate the lives of consumers with members of their community.

10. Fulfill case management responsibilities as assigned by program manager, including those related to medical and legal concerns.

11. Ensure client safety and comply with program standards for staff coverage, including assistance to the Administrator-On-Call whenever possible.

12. Act as consumer advocate and role model.

13. Provide a supportive environment that includes opportunities for consumers to determine, to the fullest extent possible, personal for daily schedules and routines.

Communication, Documentation & Teamwork

14. Follow funder and agency protocol for reporting alleged abuse and/or neglect.

15. Record data by the conclusion of each shift. Documentation requirements include, but are not limited to: financial audits, medication records, ISP data, behavior data, and behavior tracking.

16. Facilitate and document fire drills as instructed by the Program Manager or designee, and the program’s Safety Plan.

17. Fulfill case management responsibilities as assigned by program manager, including those related to medical and legal concerns.

18. Ensure client safety and compliance with program standards for staff coverage, including assistance to the Administrator-On-Call whenever possible.

19. Maintain knowledge of ongoing program issues and developments as well as informing supervisor of program issues and concerns.

20. Communicate in a professional and respectful manner.

21. Work in other residential programs when needed. May work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

22. Assist with training employees new to the program.

23. Treat all individuals, employees, and visitors with respect and dignity.

24. Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings.

25. Follow funder regulations and adhere to all BAMSI policies.

26. Understand and utilize universal/standard precautions and instruction on how to stay safe in areas that constitute risk. 27. Complete all other duties as requested.

Qualifications:

EDUCATION/CREDENTIALS:

• High school diploma or equivalency, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• A valid driver's license in state of residence and satisfactory driving record.

EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience working with individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities preferred.
• Mental Health experience highly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Ability to record data using a computer, enter time worked into an electronic system and receive and send email required.
• Ability to comprehend materials related to medication administration, ISP’s, PBS and ADL programs.
• Ability to speak and write English clearly and accurately in order to keep documentation up to date and understandable.
• Ability to lift, transfer, push/pull, maneuver, and reposition 20 pounds.
• Ability to reach, bend, stand, sit and walk