Town of Dedham 

Dedham, MA 

Title: Youth Service Counselor 

Education and Experience 

• Masters in counseling, clinical psychology or social work
• Minimum of six years of clinical experience in counseling/human services is required • Clinical work with youth and families is preferred
• Prior experience in training and supervision is required
• Highest level of licensure in a counseling discipline (i.e., LICSW, LMHC, Psy.D.) by the Commonwealth of MA or working to obtain it is required
• Valid motor vehicle operator’s license 
• Must receive an acceptable CORI/SORI report 
• Must receive an acceptable fingerprint report 

Knowledge, Ability and Skill 

• Possess the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver professional counseling and  administrative work in providing social services to residents, and to assist in the  administration of service programs 
• Strong crisis intervention skills  
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, financial software and willing to learn  new software programs as needed  
• Possess a thorough knowledge of and familiarity with modern office equipment,  technology, electronic equipment, and software applications and operations • A high degree of organizational skills, time management and attention to details
• High level of professionalism and the ability to maintain confidentiality • Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and handle diverse tasks 
• Ability to understand written procedures, and understand complex, multi-step written and  oral instructions  
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team required  
• Ability to take initiative, exercise sound judgment and make decisions within scope of  their authority 
• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision 
• Available to work a flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekends
• Ability to maintain active certification in C.P.R., A.E.D. and first aid 

Supervised by: Works under the general administrative direction of the Youth Commission  Director and in accordance with applicable provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws.  Employee functions independently, referring specific problems to supervisor when clarification  or interpretation of policies or procedures is required.  

Job Goal: Supports and advocates for children and families in the community by providing  clinical and supportive services designed to foster the healthy growth of children ages 4 up to23. 

Salary/Benefits: According to the AFSCME Town Hall bargaining unit contract 

Essential Functions of the Job:  

• Provides all direct counseling services to residents, as well as counseling to individuals, families and groups for a variety of personal and interpersonal problems
• Responds to all mental health crisis situations accordingly and acts as a liaison between clients and various agencies, institutions, and providers; responds to all clinical inquiries to department 
• Conducts all clinical intakes and assesses for assignment or referral to outside resources. • Collaborates with the Dedham School Department and provides trainings and individual, family, and group counseling services as needed
• Serves as a member of the Crisis Management Team for school-based emergencies • Coordinates and oversees all clinical and counseling efforts for the department and provides clinical supervision to graduate interns and supervises volunteers and interns • Collaborates with the Youth Commission Director to research and apply for local, state  and federal grants and other funding sources 
• Routinely addresses the socioemotional needs of children 4 and up to 23 years old and their families by coordinating efforts with town and school department and committees, local organizations, government agencies, and the public  
• Responsible for planning, managing and overseeing appropriate department program and group-counseling services
• Creates and facilitates all mental health classes and workshops for Dedham Youth Commission programming during the school year and summer months
• Works with team to hire and train high school interns for programs offered by the Youth Commission 
• Maintains appropriate and confidential departmental and program records in accordance with federal and state regulations
• Represents the department as a member and leader of various community groups, including interdisciplinary school and municipal meetings
• Collaborates and networks with staff from area youth commissions creating bi-monthly trainings, case presentations and other learning opportunities; attends professional seminars and workshops 
• In the absence of the Director directs the daily operation of the department
• In the absence of the Director acts as emergency contact for the Youth Commission  Board 
• Performs similar or related work as required or as situation dictates. 

Job Environment/Physical and Mental Demands: 

The employee may spend a portion of the workday in the field and is frequently required to walk,  stand, climb, stoop, bend, reach, pull, push, lift, hike, speak and hear or be able to communicate. The employee operates standard office equipment, including a computer, calculator, telephone,  copy machine, fax machine and postal equipment. Ability to view computer screens and work with  details for extended periods. Operates an automobile when providing services to youths and  families at various locations. Ability to view computer screens and work with details for extended  periods. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Analytical, listening,  critical thinking skills, and attention to detail abilities needed to interpret and manage many details  with a high level of responsibility. May be requested to work outside of normal business hours  including evenings or weekends. The employee is subject to mental and emotional situations that  require mental resilience. 

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the  employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements  of the job change.