About this role
Community Youth Services - Pierce County is looking for compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our team as Residential Counselor at the New Directions Crisis Residential Center in Tacoma. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of youth aged 12 – 17, providing them with a safe haven and the support they need to overcome challenges.
Starting pay is $21.71 to $27.84 per hour. (Non-exempt - Fulltime)
Join CYS and be a part of the solution with an employer that provides a staff-driven culture where we view our staff as our greatest asset in providing quality services. Community Youth Service is a non-profit located in Olympia, WA.
CYS fosters a supportive, staff-cultured environment where your growth potential is limitless!
Qualifications:
• A minimum of two years of education and/or direct experience with at-risk youth.
• At least six months’ prior experience as an Associate Counselor in a similar facility.
• Valid TB test results within the last 12 months or the ability to obtain a negative result within 30 days of employment.
• Additional agency qualifications are detailed on the career landing page.
Major Responsibilities and Related Tasks:
Residential Environment Management:
•
• Maintain a healthy living environment for youth residents to minimize crisis behavior.
• Coordinate daily youth activities to structure their days and evenings positively.
• Provide clear and consistent expectations to residents.
Participant Support and Counseling:
•
• Offer guidance, counseling, and support to help participants maintain appropriate and safe behavior.
• Conduct intake assessments and interviews to uncover needs and educate new participants on Haven House procedures and policies.
• Utilize behavior modification techniques to facilitate positive behavioral progress and stabilization in residents.
• Record significant interactions and behavioral observations in participant case notes.
• Develop individualized treatment plans for clients.
Administrative and Communication Tasks:
•
• Inform program leadership (Lead Counselor, Program Coordinator, and/or Program Director) of significant activities related to residents and the facility.
• Complete incident reports and notify appropriate parties when necessary.
• Handle referral calls from DCFS, gather data, verify eligibility, and coordinate intake appointments.
• Act as a crisis liaison for the public by providing telephone counseling and basic information about community resources.
Youth Treatment and Documentation:
•
• Provide individualized treatment based on known mental health issues and behavioral history.
• Assist in creating a support system for youth in placement.
• Participate in consultations with Case Managers and/or Program Coordinators to understand participant behavioral tendencies and receive guidance on effective interventions.
• Develop individualized treatment plans for participants.
• Assist with behavior assessments.
• Maintain resident case records and required paperwork.
• Write discharge summaries addressing resident progress, treatment issues, and recommendations within five days of discharge from the facility.
Compensation & Benefits:
• Competitive salary starting at $21.71 to $27.84 per hour.
• A comprehensive benefits package with details available on the career landing page!
This position is more than a job; it’s a chance to empower youth and contribute to their journey towards a brighter future. If you’re ready to take on this fulfilling role, apply now and join us in steering young lives towards success and stability.
Apply Today and Help Us Make a Difference! Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and passion for working with youth. We look forward to hearing from you!
Community Youth Services is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.
$21.71 to $27.84 per hour