School Based Counselor

Counseling In Schools (CIS) is a dynamic community-based organization founded in 1986 with a mission to promote the emotional and social growth of children so that they can thrive in school and succeed in life. Counseling In Schools has created and fostered relationships with local schools, shelters, and communities to enable New York City’s children to thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally. Our expert team includes licensed mental health and youth development professionals who fully integrate into the community, providing programs that equip children, families, teachers, and administrators with the right tools for preventing and coping with the challenges they face. We envision and work toward a bright future, full of possibilities, where each child can flourish and reach their full potential.

Counseling in Schools is currently seeking a School Based Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Social Work, or a related Master’s Degree. CIS is currently interviewing for full-time positions in Brooklyn and Manhattan elementary, middle, and high schools. CIS provides regular clinical supervision and professional development to all clinical staff. Applicants should reference in their cover letter: their preference(s) for elementary, middle or a high school program, and in which borough(s) they will work and identify languages spoken other than English.

This is an opportunity for clinicians who enjoy working directly with young people while also being part of the larger life of a school community. CIS counselors provide individual and group counseling, crisis support, social-emotional programming, family engagement, and consultation with school staff.

Counselors work collaboratively with school leadership, teachers, families, and other support professionals to identify student needs and develop responsive interventions that promote social-emotional wellness, positive school engagement, and academic success.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group counseling to students based on identified needs
• Develop and facilitate social-emotional learning, prevention, and wellness groups
• Provide crisis intervention, de-escalation, and short-term support when needed
• Build trusting, culturally responsive relationships with students and families
• Collaborate with teachers, school administrators, support staff, and community partners
• Participate in student support meetings and contribute a mental health perspective to school-based planning
• Engage parents and caregivers as partners in supporting students
• Provide consultation and support to school staff around student social-emotional and behavioral needs
• Maintain timely and accurate clinical documentation and program records
• Participate in CIS clinical supervision, professional development, and organizational initiatives
• Become an active and visible member of the school community

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Creative Arts Therapy, or another related mental health field
• Strong clinical, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with children, adolescents, families, and school staff
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills
• Comfort working in a dynamic school environment and responding flexibly to student and school needs
• Experience with crisis intervention and de-escalation is preferred
• Previous school-based experience is a plus
• Bilingual and multilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

Benefits & Paid Time Off 

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 30 plus days of PTO plus paid holidays which allows you to recharge and return to work refreshed and motivated.
• Health Care Coverage:
  We understand the importance of your health and well-being. As part of our commitment, we provide a fully company-sponsored plan as well as other options for comprehensive healthcare coverage that includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, ensuring that you and your family have access to quality healthcare when needed.
• Clinical Supervision and Licensing hours
• Transit Check Program:
  To make your daily commute more convenient and cost-effective, we provide a transit check program that allows you to cover transportation expenses using pre-tax dollars. This benefit contributes to a greener and more efficient commute.
• 401(k) Plan:
  Planning for your future is essential. Our 401(k) plan enables you to save for retirement while benefiting from company contributions, ensuring financial security in your later years.
•  Life Insurance:
  Your peace of mind is paramount. We offer life insurance coverage to provide financial support for your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances, demonstrating our commitment to your family's well-being.
• Referral Bonuses: We all have friends in our field of work. Refer a friend or colleague to work at CIS and receive a bonus once they join our team!

**Benefits are subject to change.

Employees are full-time, 12-month staff who report to school sites and follow the annual school schedule from September through June.

Compensation: Salary - $55K-60K, commensurate with experience, etc.