Options Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary: This position is responsible for assisting older adults and disabled individuals to make informed decisions about long term care services and supports in the setting that best meets their needs and choice, by providing information and referral regarding options. This includes providing information about services, housing, financial resources, public benefits, assistance in connecting with appropriate referral sources, and help in evaluating options.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Provide Person-Centered Options Counseling to Support Informed Decision-Making

o Deliver short-term, unbiased counseling to consumers, family members, or caregivers in a variety of settings (community, hospitals, nursing and rehab facilities, or by phone/email).

o Assist consumers in evaluating long-term care options and identifying programs, public benefits, or housing supports that align with their goals.

o Become trained and certified as a Certified Application Counselor (CAC) and maintain active certification through required meetings, trainings, and annual recertification. Assist consumers in completing applications for MassHealth and SNAP benefits as part of the agency’s Benefits Support program.

o Conduct follow-up approximately 30 days after counseling to assess progress and determine if additional support is needed.

• Conduct Outreach to Community Partners and the Public

o Visit local Councils on Aging (COAs) to offer presentations or informational booths for the community.

o Attend community events such as resource fairs to share agency services and materials.

o Distribute informational resources to hospitals and external agencies.

• Maintain Program Support, Documentation, and Departmental Flexibility

o Record all contacts, visits, and services in accordance with the Executive Office of Aging & Wellness (AGE) and agency standards.

o Support program reporting by contributing to data collection and ensuring timely record-keeping.

o Attend required trainings, participate in office coverage, and perform other duties as assigned.

o Assist the Intake Information & Referral Department by providing phone queue coverage as needed.

Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent. (should this be associates degree?)

Experience: Minimum of two years of experience assisting older adults and/or disabled individuals with long term care needs.

Special Skills/Knowledge:

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities or older adults and their families.

• Knowledge of community-based resources available.

• Excellent oral and written communications skills.

• Strong assessment skills, basic computer skills, organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced, high volume work environment.

• Knowledge of the Aging Services & Access Point (ASAP) world is desirable.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

• Bilingual ability preferred (Spanish, Portuguese)

This job description is intended to be general, will evolve over time, and is subject to periodic updating. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.