A Youth Counselor or Worker works with young people, primarily ages 13-18, to provide mentoring and support for dealing with problems. Works in a school or community-based program; may assist with referrals from parole or probation offices. Collaborates with teachers, family members, social workers and health care professionals to help young people facing challenges or crises.
UPSEU Local 424 Distinguishing Features of the Position This work involves responsibility for providing counseling, referral and supportive services to the youth community on a town-wide basis. Work involves assisting the Director in the planning, development and implementation of approved programs and activities geared toward the involvement of youth. This class requires thorough training in the field of counseling, social work or allied fields, with specialized experience in youth services.
Typical Work Activities:
Visits public schools on a regular schedule and meets with students having a variety of issues such as family, drug, alcohol, school, emotional or other problems Counsels students on a one to one basis either at the schools, residences or Youth Services office Meet and advise parents, families, guardians and teachers in matters related to youth problems Counsel student groups in conjunction with school social workers. Responds to emergencies by phone or in person on a 24 hour on call basis for crisis intervention Provides assistance to youths, parents, and police in matters such as runaways, attempted or threatened suicide, youthful offender acts, etc Serves as member of Juvenile Review Board, and as Chairperson in absence of Director; reviews and evaluates criminal cases of youthful offenders Follow up on case work of Juvenile Board Serves as member of Youth Advisory Board in discussing and evaluating programs geared toward youth. Teaches students subjects of contemporary issues and attitudes within school environment Conducts weekly group therapy meetings in conjunction with court probation officer Arranges and conducts educational and recreational programs and evens with the juvenile court referral group Completes periodic state reports, case histories on youth served Enter data into program software and generate reports Conducts group counseling in conjunction with school guidance department and/or school teaching staff Speaks before civic groups on matters pertaining to youth and related problems Makes individualized referrals based on youth needs
Knowledge, Skill, Ability and Personal Characteristics:
Thorough knowledge of the principles and methods of counseling and interviewing techniques Thorough knowledge of the problems and difficulties encountered by the youth community Thorough knowledge of the social service resources available to youth Ability to work with minimal supervision Ability to establish communication with youth of varying socio-economic backgrounds and with parents, guardians and teachers Ability to assess client needs and recommend appropriate services Ability to develop plans programs, activities and resources for need of the youth community. Ability to speak effectively before groups. Ability to establish and maintain an effective and professional relationship with staff and workers
Qualifications:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor of Science (B.S. or B.A.) degree in psychology, sociology, social work, counseling or closely related field Completed or in the process of completion of Master's Degree in related fields Not less than 2 years employment and experience in counseling youth
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to lift, up-to and including, 30-pounds Ability to sit for long durations and concentrate on complex tasks.
Benefits:
Include CT Municipal Employees Retirement System (CTMERS) Pension Plan generous time off (personal days, vacation, accrued sick leave, including 12 full days & 2 half day holidays) & insurance package (medical, dental, vision care, prescription and life.)
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
The Town of Southington is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services.
