Summary: The Residential Counselor works a 4-day work week and has the primary responsibility for providing assistance, implementing program plans or procedures, and crisis intervention services during the hours assigned. In accomplishing this, the residential counselor has the following duties and responsibilities:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• The Residential Counselor functions as part of the treatment team and is responsible for direct care and supervision of students from the perspective of instructor or role model.
• The Residential Counselor will supervise students at all times, know where they are, and consistently monitor physical and emotional status.
• Know building and safety codes and emergency procedures.
• Have basic first-aid and CPR certification, and TCI certification and be able to assist or initiate as needed for safety of staff and students, including physical restraints.
• Maintain students’ confidentiality at all times, report all pertinent information to supervisor.
• Clearly and concisely fill out Incident Reports as needed in a timely fashion.
• Follow and maintain consistent daily schedule and routine.
• Be familiar with students’ ICSPs.
• Have solid understanding of students’ backgrounds (pre-placement), special needs and goals.
• Act as a role model for students: maintain appropriate personal appearance, dress and demeanor.
• Model appropriate expression of feeling and responses.
• Develop positive, growth-producing relationship with students.
• Offer support and feedback to team members
• Actively participate in dorm and staff meetings, staff trainings and development of activities.
• Pursue appropriate channels of communication
• Understand the administrative structure, chain of command and program philosophy of VPI.
• Appropriately represent VPI to the community, students’ parents and outside agencies.
• Follow all company policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Reports To: Residential Supervisor