Full-Time Youth Counselor

About the role

Partner with us in making a positive change! Join a team where your work truly matters. We're proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work for 8 years by our own employees. We invite you to partner with us in our mission to improve mental healthcare. The Youth Counselor works at the Kern Psychiatric Health Facility, a 16‑bed inpatient psychiatric health facility serving children and youth (ages 5‑17) with acute psychiatric symptoms. Clients move through five phases: admission, engagement, learning, stabilization, and linkage to resources and aftercare, with typical stays up to 72 hours.

Responsibilities

The Youth Counselor has the primary responsibility for supervising and caring for adolescent clients in individual and group settings, ensuring their safety and well‑being. Assists adolescents with daily living skills, including eating, personal hygiene, grooming, social interactions, and positive behavior development. Provides support with daily activities, school responsibilities, and therapeutic programs while encouraging appropriate behavior and participation. Leads and assists with group activities, maintains accurate documentation of daily activities and behaviors, and participates in shift meetings and treatment team meetings to support quality care and communication.

Requirements

Youth Counselor I: High school diploma or equivalent is required. Must have one year of experience with children or adults with serious mental health needs. Inpatient experience is preferred.

Qualifications

Youth Counselor II / Youth Counselor IV: High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED, HiSET) plus three years of experience with children/adults with serious mental health needs; OR an associate’s degree plus one year of experience; OR a bachelor’s degree plus six months of experience.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation: salary that matches your skills and experience.
• Generous time off: ample vacation and holiday pay.
• Comprehensive benefits package: employer‑paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; additional voluntary benefits to support your lifestyle.
• Professional growth opportunities: on‑the‑job training with access to paid CEU opportunities; career development programs; supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals (where applicable).
• Employee recognition & rewards: a culture that celebrates and rewards hard work and dedication.

Pay

Starting compensation: $21.00 – $27.01 USD per hour.

Schedule

Full‑time position working Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights (NOC) from 6:00 pm to 6:30 am.