Mental Health Counselor, Edwin's Place (Supportive Housing)

New York City-based nonprofit organization committed to reducing homelessness and addressing related issues of domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, mental illness, substance abuse, shortage of affordable housing, and unemployment in the communities we serve.

About the role

The Case Manager/Mental Health Counselor provides counseling to residents of the supportive housing program with an emphasis on prevention. This role works with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental health, develops collaborative relationships with other disciplines, and ensures effective client care.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the intake/screening/assessment team to determine client suitability for independent living and appropriateness for the housing program.
• Provide individual and group counseling for substance abuse, mental health, or co-occurring issues; co-lead specific resident population groups as assigned.
• Use a Person-Centered approach to help clients set goals, identify interests, and address concerns.
• Assess clients’ psychosocial history to provide strategic interventions and services.
• Provide education and information to adults and families; modify treatments based on client progress.
• Develop and implement treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge.
• Use psycho-educational techniques to help clients understand and adhere to medication regimens and advocate with providers.
• Participate in educational activities and department meetings.
• Conduct assessments and psychological evaluations.
• Refer clients and families to community agencies and resources for financial assistance, counseling, rehabilitation, and auxiliary care.
• Prepare, write, and maintain all required progress notes, reports, and group notes; keep electronic records as required.
• Coordinate phone and triage activities; regularly coordinate care with collateral contacts (e.g., family, providers, ACS, APS, schools).
• Maintain a strengths-based perspective to engage family members and improve family functioning.
• Conduct unit visits to ensure compliance with lease and program rules; enlist property management support for wellness checks.
• Complete and maintain Monthly Progress Notes/Treatment Reports.
• Lead or co-lead monthly tenant meetings.
• Provide group activities and services, including educational and recreational activities.
• Develop and maintain contacts with community agencies to gather resource information and improve services.
• Help clients understand and proactively address diagnoses (medical, psychiatric, substance abuse, etc.).
• Perform other related duties as requested by the immediate supervisor.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field (social work, mental health counseling, psychology, sociology, etc.) with at least 2-3 years’ experience in a residential setting.
• Familiarity with NYC Supportive Housing, mental health, substance use, HIV/AIDS, or related fields.
• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills with a focus on excellent client services.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with a diverse community of residents, staff, and external partners.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and apply problem-solving skills.
• Experience working collaboratively in a team-oriented, outcomes-focused environment.
• Ability to monitor and manage a variety of assigned tasks.

Skills

• Person-Centered counseling approach
• Treatment planning and psycho-educational techniques
• Assessment and psychological evaluation
• Case management and care coordination
• Group facilitation and community resource development

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 5 pounds at times.
• Ability to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities.

Pay

The base salary compensation for this role is $53,034.80.

Benefits

• Medical (including prescription coverage), Dental, and Vision
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays and Annual Paid Time Off (23 days)
• Life Insurance
• Long Term Disability
• Retirement Benefits Plan (403B)
• Potential for college student debt forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program