Description
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Develops and implements elements of treatment programming, utilizing a cognitive-behavioral model to include but not limited to issues of substance abuse, individual/family counseling, crisis intervention, and co-occurring disorders
Carries a regular counseling caseload for the CSCD as assigned
Meets CSCD and TDCJ-CJAD Standards on audits
Documents probationer and/or defendant compliance and attendance according to requirements of the Group Contract agreement for the Substance Abuse Treatment Program or Treatment Alternatives to Incarceration Program
Updates probationer and/or defendant data and information in CSCD designated case management software system
Understands evidence-based programs and possesses the ability to implement them
Provides screening, assessment, group/individual counseling services to address criminogenic needs of high risk/high needs probationers and/or defendants and makes referrals to community resources as appropriate
Works closely and effectively to collaborate with specialized and regular community supervision officers (CSOs)
Participates in specialized training relative to substance abuse, crisis management, group and individual and family counseling, cultural, ethnic and gender diversity topics
Documents treatment sessions and contacts with participants / Delivers completed progress reports, discharge plans and summaries to the assigned CSO and/or other interested parties
Provides assessment services to probationers and/or defendants temporarily incarcerated in the McLennan County Jail and testifies in court hearings as needed
Maintains and adheres to training requirements, credentialing, and compliance with all applicable policies and procedures to include theTDCJ-CJADs Code of Ethics and the Ethical Standards established by theTexas Department of State Health Servicesor other agency overseeing respective licensure
Regular attendance and timeliness are required
Participates in special projects and performs other related duties as assigned by assigned Staff Operations Manager, Deputy Director and/or CSCD Director
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER: The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION:
Must hold and maintain a professional counseling license (LCDC, LPC, LPC-I, LCSW) issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services and maintain current license and/or alternative licensure as appropriate
Advanced degree related to Texas Human Services conferred by an institution of higher education accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the Higher Texas Coordinating Board. Bachelors degree may be accepted, Masters degree preferred
SKILLS EXPERIENCE:
Experience with cognitive/behavioral models of treatment as well as the 12-step model, assessment instruments and clinical documentation. Counseling/teaching experience in a substance abuse treatment setting in addition to experience with offender and/or mental health populations preferred.
Effective interpersonal skills in dealing with offenders, public, and co-workers
Excellent oral and written communication/presentations skills with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of individuals utilizing tact and diplomacy
Demonstrated experience in managing multiple tasks with competing priorities and deadlines
Ability to use sound analytical reasoning to solve difficult or complex problems
Documented willingness to work and to exceed minimum expectations
Ability and means to travel as needed
Willingness to adhere to policies of the CSCD and support the CSCD Administration despite pressure exerted by others
-Effective conflict resolution skills
Ability to cooperate and collaborate with others of diverse backgrounds, cultures, or interests
Demonstrated ability to contribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with and emphasizes the CSCD's Mission, Vision, and Values
Must have a valid Texas Drivers License
Must provide proof of current automobile liability insurance
Must have a working and reliable vehicle
DISCLAIMER:McLennan County will conduct background checks on new hires that will include a criminal background check related to convictions and deferred adjudications in the past ten years and may include credit reports, motor vehicle records, employment records, and educational attainment. A conviction or deferred adjudication is not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered individually.
Supplemental Information
All Employees
Must be
committedto achieving excellence in assigned duties, always in service of the Courts, the county and community
Must have ability to earn and keep the
trustof fellow employees and the community at large
Must be
approachableand ready to help fellow employees and the general public
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Works primarily indoors
Conducts face-to-face visits with inmates in County Jail
Comes in contact with criminal courts, courthouse personnel, law enforcement and community agencies
Works with individuals who are on supervision for felony and/or misdemeanor offenses
Requires a 40-hour week (Monday through Friday) under potentially stressful conditions
PHYSICAL DEMAND REQUIREMENTS:
Reading procedures, policies, standards, case files, reports, etc.
Reading, bending, sitting, standing, walking, kneeling, speaking, hearing, lifting case files, significant computer data entry, ability to manage stress in meeting deadlines and change, and other physical efforts as required
May be required to travel to County Jail to conduct substance abuse assessments
The duties of a Counselor include office work which both require substance abuse treatment of criminal offenders who may present physical danger to the counselor and to the public. In the treatment of probationers and/or defendants, essential duties require moderate to arduous physical exertion, including prolonged periods of walking and standing, physical dexterity and coordination, and use of self-defense tactics. Office work requires prolonged periods of sitting and standing, moderate lifting, and walking.
HOURS / SPECIAL CO
