Child Welfare Counselor

About the role

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) is seeking a full-time Child Welfare Counselor to provide therapeutic services to children in foster care, their birth parents, and foster/adoptive parents. The position adheres to state mandates, COA standards, LSSI policies, and program plans.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive assessment of client's therapeutic needs.
• Develop individualized treatment plan engaging children, families, and CWS staff.
• Offer direct counseling and therapeutic services to individuals, families, and groups as needed.
• Complete and submit required reports, documentation, and billing accurately and timely.
• Participate in supervisory process for guidance, direction, support, and approval of decision-making, assessment, treatment planning, and intervention.
• Provide DSM 5/ICD-10 diagnoses for assigned clients.
• Communicate professionally, positively, and respectfully with clients, families, other LSSI workforce members, and collaborative organizations.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in social work or related human services field.
• Three (3) or more years post-graduate experience working as a therapist preferred.
• License as LCSW, LCPC, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LSW, or Licensed Clinical Psychologist.
• Ability to perform functions with greater clinical expertise and independence.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of DSM 5/ICD-10 and their applications.
• Excellent organization, presentation, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license, in good standing for the state of residency.
• Access to reliable transportation.
• Valid IL statutory minimum liability insurance coverage, bodily injury and property damage.

Benefits and Perks

LSSI offers competitive salary ($30-$32/hourly), comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for advancement. Additional perks include on-demand flexible paydays through Dayforce Wallet, up to 26 days of paid time off per calendar year, 11 paid holidays, sick time, 403(b) plan, Employee Assistance Program, and flexible hours.