School-Based Clinician

About the role

School clinicians are essential members of the Student Support Services team, responsible for addressing the social, emotional, and mental health needs of students to ensure academic and personal success. Clinicians provide individual, group, and classroom-based counseling, crisis intervention, and specialized support for mandated and at-risk students. They serve as the critical link between students, families, caregivers, and school leadership, helping to identify barriers and develop solutions that foster student growth and wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Direct Services:
  • Provide mandated and at-risk counseling sessions, including individual, group, push-in, and check-in services.
  • Conduct safety assessments and crisis interventions for students experiencing suicidal ideation, self-harm, or other urgent concerns.
  • Develop and implement Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), and Crisis Support Plans in collaboration with school leadership and families.
• Family and Community Partnerships:
  • Build strong, trusting relationships with caregivers and families to promote student investment.
  • Cookordinate in-school and community-based services, maintaining updated referral resources and connections with external providers.
  • Plan and facilitate workshops for caregivers as needed.
  • Attend IEP meetings and parent-teacher conferences as required.
• School Collaboration:
  • Partner with school leaders and teachers to support tiered behavioral interventions (Tier 1–3).
  • Participate in MTSS meetings to problem-solve and develop support plans for students.
  • Communicate student progress and goals to families, leadership, and other key stakeholders.
• Other Duties as Assigned:
  • Support school operations as needed, including arrival, lunch, dismissal, bus duty, attendance outreach, assessments, and school events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in social work, school counseling, psychology, or mental health counseling.
• Active New York State licensure (LCSW, LMSW, LMHC, School Psychologist, or School Counselor).
• Strong commitment to urban education and closing the achievement gap.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with students, families, and community partners.
• Expertise in crisis intervention, counseling, and behavioral support planning.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and oral.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits

Initial salary offers for this position range from $66,750 - $101,790, based on years of experience, level of licensure, and advanced degrees relevant to the role. Ascend offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement savings options; and generous vacation and school holiday schedules.