Counselor, Mental Health - Residential Services

Department: Residential Services

County or State funded: County

Exempt or Non-exempt: Exempt

Paygrade: C-113

Salary pay range: $25.26 - $31.57 hourly

Basic Function and Responsibility:

The mental health counselor provides clinical services and support to youth within the juvenile justice system. This position combines therapeutic expertise with juvenile justice knowledge to promote rehabilitation and positive behavioral change among young offenders.

Appointing Authority and Supervision Received: 

The deputy court administrator of family court is the appointing authority.  The mental health counselor receives direct supervision by the director of the department.

Supervision Exercised:

None.

Characteristic and Assigned Duties: (The following duties are representative of the position and do not include all duties which may be performed.)

• Conducts individual and family counseling sessions on a limited basis.
• Oversees and collaborates with contracted therapists bi-weekly for caseload management.
• Partners with probation officers, juvenile justice professionals, and community organizations.
• Provides crisis intervention services as needed.
• Develops family support systems for at-risk youth.
• Facilitates access to medical care, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
• Delivers staff training on youth mental health and substance abuse needs.
• Performs other duties as required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: (This job description does not include specific physical requirements necessary to perform the job, such as, carrying, standing and lifting. Such requirements vary from position to position and may be determined by the appointing authority.)

• Demonstrated understanding of juvenile justice procedures and systems.
• Proven ability in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.
• Strong cultural competency and sensitivity in working with diverse populations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish professional boundaries while building rapport.
• Proficiency in case management software systems.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices and implementation.
• Understanding of adolescent development and psychology.
• Primary work location at juvenile probation offices.
• Travel required to courts, schools, and community partner locations.
• Evening and weekend hours required.
• May encounter challenging behavioral situations.

Minimum Qualifications: (Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis, provided a high school diploma or GED has been obtained.)

Bachelor's degree in a related field plus one year of experience as a juvenile probation officer, counselor, or social worker.  Master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work preferred.

Necessary Special Requirement: 

Must obtain Missouri licensure (LMSW or P-LPC) within 6 months if not currently licensed.

All candidates selected for employment will be subject to background screenings as part of the hiring process.  Certain positions may also require additional checks, including but not limited to education verification, child abuse and neglect clearances, drug screenings, and physical assessments, as applicable to the responsibilities of the role. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER