Youth and Family Alternatives·New Port Richey, Florida
The counselor facilitates K-5th grade classroom groups using the Caring School Community curriculum and organizes cross-age buddy programs. They also conduct community outreach and maintain detailed documentation while ensuring a trauma-informed, safe environment for youth.
The Prevention Counselor position for our Caring Schools Community (CSC) program is responsible for facilitating prevention based, social-emotional learning small and classroom size group lessons for elementary school students in Pasco County; this includes organizing the cross-age buddies’ program and facilitating all additional units for the Caring School Community curriculum. This role follows the designed CSC nationally recognized evidenced based program.
The school territory is Pasco County. This position requires a current Florida State Driver's License and a clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Candidates must successfully pass a post-offer extensive background check process, including FBI Level 2 Fingerprinting screen and Drug test.
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.
Facilitates classroom and small group social-emotional learning lessons for students in grades K-5th utilizing the Caring School Community (CSC) curriculum.
Completes documentation related to provisions of the CSC program.
Conducts class meetings/sessions, per CSC Curriculum.
Makes presentations about YFA, programs and services and related issues.
Participates in meetings and work sessions related to service provisions, 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 as requested.
Conducts community outreach.
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.
The above duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform.
Bachelor's degree in human services or minimum of 4 years’ experience working directly in human services, preferably in education, substance use, or 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.
Ability to travel regionally on a regular basis and statewide as needed. Ability to bend, lift, and carry 30 pounds.
Market context
Prevention Counselor roles in Florida schools support student wellness, substance-use prevention, and early intervention, making experience with youth services and community resources relevant to hiring needs. Competition may favor candidates who meet the bachelor’s-degree or four-year experience pathway and can satisfy Florida driving, FBI Level 2 background-check, and drug-testing requirements. The requirements and benefits shown here are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving research time before applying.
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