Required Qualifications:

B.A. in psychology, sociology, rehabilitation counseling or a related field required but Master’s may be required to perform certain duties. Must have a valid New Jersey Driver’s license and clean driving record required (less than 5 points).

Entry Level Requirements:

B.A. in psychology, sociology, rehabilitation counseling or a related field required but Master’s may be required to perform certain duties. Must have a valid New Jersey Driver’s license and clean driving record required (less than 5 points).

Essential Duties:

The counselor is a professional rehabilitation position and is directly responsible to the Director of DDD Programs. They are responsible for an assigned caseload including all aspects of service delivery to participants and their families. Must have the specific skills training required by regulation and department.

1. Implement and/or oversee TransitionPLUS and Day Habilitation activities in and outside of facility providing access to, and participation in, typical activities and functions of community life including community exploration, companionship with friends and peers, leisure activities, hobbies, maintaining family contacts, community events, activities where individuals without disabilities are involved, and training and education in self-determination.

2. Provide behavioral support and intervention as written in the behavior treatment plan.

3. Document, maintain and review confidential records of participants.

4. Assist participants in all aspects of skill building, teaching opportunities and social development.

5. Assist participants in any and all activities which are designed to foster independence, personal community growth, social maturity and normalization.

6. Model positive behavior, good manners, appropriate dress, social interactions, and appropriate language.

7. Work with aide(s) in program to provide transportation and supervision during community activities.

8. Communicate with participants using their primary language or other adaptive communication methods.

9. Facilitate administration of medications with staff nurse and in community when necessary.

10. Observe and complete other documentation as required, including attendance records, participant notes, monthly progress notes, and incident reports (including Unusual Incidents).

11. Observe and report changes in health status of participants.

12. Required to stay until relief arrives. Participants are never to be left unattended under any circumstances.

13. Provide assistance and teaching in all aspects of keeping the facility clean, tidy and safe.

14. Attend Individual Habilitation Planning (IHP) meetings to advocate for participants' needs and preferences.

15. Ensure participants are treated with respect and dignity reflecting their place as valued members of the community.

16. Act as liaison between participants, providers, and community members.

17. Assure that efforts are undertaken to implement the individual choices and preferences of each participant assigned promoting their rights and autonomy.

18. Encourage individual participation in the community.

19. May transport participants to and from group activities and other destinations.

20. Assist participants in and out of the van when necessary.

21. May operate a 7 to 15 passenger vehicle.

22. Adhere to and enforce vehicle safety rules when traveling.

23. Ensure that passengers are safely seated inside the motor vehicle.

24. Secure mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs.

25. Complete all DDD required training within the required time frames.

26. Other duties assigned by Supervisor.

Expectations of ALL Counselors

1. Display an overall commitment to the organization’s mission, policies, and procedures, including the belief that all persons, regardless of disability, have a right to co-exist in the community.

2. Demonstrate caring and compassion to persons served.

3. Communicate in an open, candid, tactful, and consistent manner.

4. Respect and value the clients view and opinions.

5. Attend meetings with management regarding program planning and case review.

6. Practice effective self-time management and work ethic, including adequate attendance and punctuality.

7. Maintain confidentiality.

8. Follow through on commitments.

9. Maintain and submit all required documentation, reports and data in a timely, complete manner.

10. Maintain responsibility for your role in the day to day operation of your program.

11. Present self and Inroads in a positive, professional manner.

12. Regularly seek feedback and input from the participant.

13. Deal with participant complaints in a consistent, timely, and professional manner.

14. Continually strive to improve services, including participating in ongoing training and continued educational opportunities.