The Mental Health Counselor counsels individuals and groups to promote optimum mental health. They help individuals deal with thoughts of suicide; addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; problems with self-esteem; and issues associated with aging and mental and emotional health.

• Counsels clients and patients, individually and in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, and making changes. Maintains confidentiality of records relating to clients’ treatment.
• Guides clients in the development of skills and strategies to deal with their problems. Encourages clients to express their feelings and to discuss what is happening in their lives and helps them develop insight into themselves and their relationships.
• Collects information about clients through interviews, observations, and tests. Prepares and maintains treatment records and reports.
• Evaluates clients’ physical or mental condition based on review of client information. Develops and implements treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge. Acts as a client advocate to coordinate required services or to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.

Education:

Graduate of an accredited school with a master’s degree in psychology, social work, or professional counseling.

Experience:

Two or more years’ experience in a mental health setting preferred. Must possess knowledge of major aspects of psychiatric treatment of population served.

Licensure/Certification:

Licensed, or license eligible, as a social worker, marriage and family counselor or professional counselor per the state of Kentucky’s licensure and regulation standards for a mental health professional including:

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (under supervision)

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor – Supervisor

Clinical Social Worker (under supervision)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Supervision may be completed during employment.