Under general supervision, the Residence Counselor is responsible for guidance and well-being of residents with psychiatric disabilities in a community residence (group home). Staff are teachers of skills with the goal of increasing resident’s independence. Staff follow individual service plans that support each resident’s goals in areas such as meal preparation, medication management, socialization, household cleaning, grocery shopping, community integration, recreation, symptom management, health awareness, and other activities. Staff work cooperatively and flexibly with the Site Supervisor and Senior Counselor to meet the needs of the residents, the goals of the program, and all deadlines.

Responsibilities

Job duties specific to this position:

Serves as a primary counselor to a group of residents.
Consults routinely with case managers and residents to develop, monitor and modify service plans.
Documents the implementation of resident service plans following agency practices.
Serves as a role model to residents to encourage increased independence.
Develops an appropriate rapport with residents and staff. Treats residents and co-workers with dignity and respect in all interactions.
Provides supervision of resident self-administration of medications, following agency practices.
Completes documentation relating to medical, psychiatric, behavioral and social condition of residents.
Provides assessment and response to resident needs.
Works in cooperation with Senior Counselor and Resident Counselors to implement resident activity and service plans.
Fulfills role as primary advocate for residents as assigned by case manager or supervisor.
Trains and assists residents in the use of community resources.
Trains and assists residents in meal preparation to promote skill building and independence.
Accompanies residents to appropriate appointments and outings as directed by Site Supervisor.
Demonstrates sensitivity and responsiveness to residents’ needs when counseling.
Maintains resident confidentiality and shares written and verbal information appropriately with team members. Maintains compliance with agency confidentiality practices.
Acts as a positive and effective role model to staff and residents at all times. Demonstrates a sensitive and responsive approach with coworkers.
Completes shift responsibilities daily and accepts assignments from the Site Supervisor.
Assists in the training and development of new counselors.
Uses on-call supervisory system for support as needed, using the correct process.
Correctly uses information tools such as resident logs, communication logs, and medication log.
Assists residents with personal allowance system as needed.
Trains and assists resident in money management and budgeting.
Educates and counsels residents on making good purchases.
Alerts supervisory staff to safety issues and potential hazards. Reports all incidents or accidents, major or minor, to supervisor immediately.
Correctly documents incidents using required forms or reports.
Uses preventive counseling skills to avert crises.
Remains calm and patient while providing strong and supportive interventions.
Practices and teaches safety awareness to residents.
Identifies, corrects or reports any possible safety or environmental issues.
Uses on-call supervisors to test perceptions and request emergency assistance where necessary.
Makes timely decisions in both crisis and non-crisis situations by using good judgement and accepting input from providers, appropriate staff, resident and significant others.
Works with other service providers in a professional manner, representing Loretto Community Residences, Inc. in the most positive, competent and cooperative light.
Maintains relationships and open communication with all service providers throughout the Loretto system including Admissions, Daybreak and McAuliffe Health Center.
Assists at other Community Residence sites as needed.
Oversees or performs fire drills on a monthly basis in conjunction with the support service person.
Assists in grocery shopping for the house as needed.
Starts meal preparation as needed. Uses leftover food in order to be efficient and cost effective.
Seeks clarification of agency policies and procedures from appropriate resources as needed.

Qualifications

High school diploma, GED or ability to pass written TABE test.
CPR and first aid certification or the ability to complete certification at first opportunity presented by employer required.
Experience in a human services field, or working with adults with mental health disabilities strongly preferred.
Must possess a valid and clean NYS driver’s’ license. Must participate in the NYS LENS program (License Event Notification) and remain compliant throughout employment.
Positive, customer-focused attitude.
Flexibility and cooperation. Willingness to perform extra duties, as needed.
Ability to motivate and assist residents with their daily goal plans and chores.
Effective communication skills (verbal, written, listening).
Ability to work effectively independently and within a team.
Ability to work under stress, or amid frequent interruption.
Ability to meet deadlines.