Position Reports to: Vice President of Student Affairs
Specific Responsibilities:
The Mental Health Counselor shall be responsible for performing the following functions and activities:
- Provide a broad range of counseling and psychological services to Beacon College students including the following: diagnostic assessment and evaluation, individual psychotherapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, consultation, and outreach programming and training
- Fulfill assigned roles in the Counseling Center’s after-hours and weekend on-call roster, engaging actively in emergency response and crisis management protocols.
- Uphold the ethical standards of the profession in accordance with the American Counseling Association’s code of ethics.
- Demonstrate proficiency in contemporary psychotherapeutic modalities and foundational principles.
- Continuously update personal knowledge of local mental health resources and provide appropriate referrals to support student well-being.
- Stay abreast of advancements and emerging practices within the counseling and psychological fields.
- Exhibit expertise in addressing the complex emotional, social, and psychological challenges faced by students with learning disabilities and attention disorders, applying specialized treatment and management techniques.
- Apply adept observation and behavioral assessment skills to support therapeutic processes.
- Engage in college-organized after-hours events and activities as mandated.
- Collaborate with relevant parties to market and enhance the visibility of counseling services.
- Execute prompt triage assessments and manage the care of students at risk, ensuring timely and effective evaluations.
- Provide critical risk assessments and manage crisis intervention efforts with precision and care.
- Partner with colleagues to ensure seamless continuity of care for students with acute and ongoing emotional and psychological needs.
- Consult with authorized family members, treatment professionals, and academic staff to ensure a holistic approach to student health.
- Facilitate the coordination of psychiatric hospitalizations and assist with the reintegration of students returning to campus life.
- Cultivate partnerships with external mental health professionals and organizations that support socio-emotional wellness.
- Lead and contribute to preventative and educational outreach programs to foster a supportive campus environment.
- Conduct training sessions for faculty and staff to enhance campus-wide mental health literacy.
- Maintain thorough and prompt documentation in the electronic record-keeping system.
Additional Duties:
- Acquire and maintain a thorough understanding of college regulations and ensure compliance with all institutional policies and procedures.
- Attend and contribute to meetings convened by the President and or the Vice President of Student Affairs
- Serve actively on various College committees as appointed.
- Take part in significant college events such as orientations, graduations, open houses, and community outreach efforts, as well as support fundraising initiatives as needed.
- Perform additional responsibilities as they arise or as delegated by the college administration.
Education and Experience Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications for the Mental Health Counselor Position:
- A master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Valid state licensure or registration as a professional counselor, clinical social worker, or clinical psychologist.
- A minimum of two years of professional experience in mental health counseling.
- Familiarity and experience with issues pertaining to learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
- Strong crisis management skills and experience with emergency response procedures.
- Proficient in the use of electronic health records and data management systems.
- Commitment to continuing education and professional development in counseling practices and ethics.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to collaborate effectively with students, parents, faculty, and staff.
- Availability to participate in evening and weekend on-call duties and respond to emergencies as needed. Must live within 40 minutes of campus.
- Candidates who have experience with diverse populations, demonstrate a commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, and possess an understanding of multicultural counseling principles are strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Demonstrated experience and ability to work as part of a highly cohesive and interdisciplinary team.
- Exceptional organizational skills with a systematic approach to managing tasks and priorities
- Strong ability to remain composed and maintain a clear focus during high-stress situations.
- Experience in maintaining confidentiality and highly sensitive information.
- Knowledge of and ability to follow college and counseling services policies and procedures.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community members.
