The Shelter Counselor provides individual, group, and family therapy to youth and their families using trauma-informed care. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, managing cases, advocating for clients in court, and coordinating educational support.
Requirements summary
Requires a Master's degree with 0-3 years of clinical experience or a Bachelor's degree with at least 4 years of human services experience. Candidates must possess strong communication skills and the ability to travel regionally.
The Shelter Counselor position is responsible for counseling individuals, groups, and\or problematic youth and their families using advanced techniques through individual, group, and family therapy. Work is performed under direct supervision of the Program Director and Behavioral Health leader.
In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required trainings, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.
Essential Job Functions
Conducts assessments, prepares treatment plans and psycho-socials for clinical contract and regulatory compliance goals, and provides case management.
Provides counseling and support services to all shelter youth to assist children in completing their education. Determines eligibility, intake, assessment, evaluation, referral, transportation, monitor school attendance, and case management.
Conducts group counseling and education sessions.
Schedules and conducts informal and formal contacts with individuals who have information about and/or an interest in specific clients. Maintains contact with visiting teacher to initiate a truancy referral from the School Board.
Completes documentation related to provision of counseling services including contact notes, assessments, testing, screening, intake forms, interview notes, correspondence, and statistics.
Serves as advocate for clients including staffing cases in Truancy Arbitration process and initiating ClNS/FINS petitions to the court. Represents YFA and/or the child in court.
Maintains up-to-date knowledge of laws, DCF, DJJ, and other agency guidelines for eligibility, counseling services to be provided, and other actions to be taken.
Completes client follow-up according to established guidelines.
Handles shelter crisis calls from clients and non-clients.
Makes presentations about YFA, programs, services, and related issues.
Participates in meetings and work sessions related to service provision including programmatic supervision, individual supervision, and inter-program supervision.
Provides input on changes/enhancements to programs and services; participates in design/redesign of programs and services.
Participates in staff meetings.
Conducts community outreach programs.
Participates in on-call program and required training.
Organizes and conducts recreational activities and field trips for residents under supervision of Program Director and assisted by Youth Care staff.
Completes other tasks as assigned or necessary to ensure clients receive necessary services and necessary administrative tasks are completed.
Creates a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and/or colleagues, in order for individuals to feel emotionally and physically secure, and not be re-traumatized.
Follows a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to individuals needs’ and experiences.
Practices self-care and seeks support when necessary to prevent burnout of providing trauma-informed care.
Requirements
Education & Experience
Master's degree and 0-3 years’ post-Master’s degree clinical/counseling experience, OR Bachelor’s degree and minimum of 4 years’ experience working directly in human services, preferably in counseling.
Preferred knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals.
Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic stories and situations and communicate a sense of trust and safety. Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well-being.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
Communicate and maintain working relationships with internal and external contacts
Ability to facilitate large/small groups and the varied group dynamics that may arise
Ability to work cooperatively in a group/team setting
Ability to take guidance and direction from supervisors
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites
Skilled in actively listening to concerns, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves without judgment or blame
Physical Requirements
Ability to travel regionally on a regular basis and statewide as needed. Ability to bend, lift, and carry 30 pounds.
In Florida, shelter counselor roles typically see steady demand from providers serving people in crisis, especially where regional travel and flexible coverage are needed. These jobs are competitive because employers often look for a master's degree with limited clinical experience or a bachelor's degree plus several years in human services, along with strong communication skills. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page, then confirm your travel availability and prepare examples of de-escalation or client-support work before applying.
