Licensed Professional Counselor

Summary/Objective The Professional Counselor provides professional mental health counseling services to youth housed at the Smith County Juvenile Detention Center. The LPC works within a secure juvenile justice environment and collaborates with detention staff, probation officers, medical personnel, educators, and other treatment professionals to assess, treat, and support detained youth. Services are trauma-informed and focused on behavioral health stabilization, rehabilitation, and successful reintegration. Duties And Responsibilities Provide individual and group counseling services to detained youthConduct psychosocial assessments, mental health screenings, and clinical evaluationsDevelop, implement, and monitor individualized treatment plansProvide crisis intervention, risk assessments, and de-escalation services as neededMaintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical documentation and recordsParticipate in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings and case reviewsCollaborate with juvenile probation officers, detention staff, and community providersEnsure compliance with ethical standards, state regulations, and county policiesProvide referrals and coordinate continuity of care upon youth releaseMaintain required licensure and continuing education requirements Required Skills And Abilities Knowledge of adolescent development, behavioral health disorders, and evidence-based treatment approachesStrong assessment, counseling, and clinical judgment skillsAbility to manage crisis situations calmly and professionallyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary teamStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to work effectively in a secure detention or correctional environment Education And Experience Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a closely related mental health field from an accredited institutionExperience working with adolescents preferredExperience in juvenile justice, detention, residential treatment, or trauma-informed care preferred Licenses and Certifications Current and unrestricted Texas Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Texas Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) Physical Demands and Work Environment Work is performed in a secure juvenile detention facilityRegular interaction with detained youthMust successfully pass a criminal background check and security clearance