I. Job Summary

As the leader of the group treatment team, the Residential Therapist acts as an advocate for the children in the agency’s Residential program and their families by providing clinical assessment and professional case management services; formulates and assesses treatment plans; provides individual, group and family therapy and training; appears in court when necessary.

II. DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

To be successful, a Residential Therapist must be able to do the following duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Along with the Residential Supervisor, lead the group treatment team with the responsibility for ensuring each child successfully completes the goals set forth in their treatment plan by providing individual, group and family therapy and training to the children and their families designed to improve social functioning; offer advice on community support services and collaborate with internal and external resources to ensure the treatment plan is successful.
• Provide case management services for the children and their families; guide the children through the entire treatment process, including managing intake conferences and assessments, interviewing and orientating the children and their families; evaluate relevant written material and arranging admission; maintain complete and detailed case records, prepare ongoing summaries of services indicating client case history and progress, document progress notes for clients; participate in discharge planning and placement.
• Perform administrative duties to meet objectives set by the program manager and senior management; create and maintain records and reports; recommend new approaches, policies, and procedures for continual improvement of program services; participate in developing department goals and objectives.
• Represent the agency in court, accurately testify to the progress of cases; attend all required hearings and meetings pursuant to cases, clients, children, and families; make assessments and recommendations based on the best interest of the child.
• Assist with providing leadership and maintaining discipline of residents; provide assistance with controlling disruptive behavior using agency approved methods of de-escalation and crisis intervention.
• Operate within the guidelines of the Employee Handbook, Therapist’s Operations Manual, and DHS Policies and Procedures.

Basic Competencies

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling or Psychology required.
• One (1) year of experience in a residential or inpatient setting working with serious emotional disorder (SED) at-risk youth between the ages of 7 – 17; and
• Possession of a certified social worker license for the State of Michigan, or eligibility for the license within two (2) years of hire.

The Knowledge of:

• Computer and software applications (Windows, MS Office, Internet applications, etc.) necessary to perform the duties of the position.
• Clinical assessment and child therapy
• Principles and practices of social work, including the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Michigan Department of Human Services policies and procedures.
• Family, child and group dynamics.
• Child development theory and application
• The behavior patterns of youth and methods of modifying behavior.

The Skills and Ability to:

• Effectively engage children and adults.
• Relate to youth and gain their respect and confidence.
• Perform behavior management techniques to control aggressive behavior.
• Manage time and multiple priorities, meet deadlines.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.
• Exercise professional judgment in making decisions.
• Handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.
• Attend training and maintain necessary certifications and licenses.
• Maintain a Michigan driver’s license and driving record that allows the operation of an agency or personal vehicle for agency business or to transport clients as needed.

MCHS offers a generous compensation package which includes medical and dental benefits, generous PTO plan, 401k with match and more. Opportunities for growth, wonderful team culture, Diversity, DIRE (Diversity, Inclusion, Race Equity) committee, and more!

MCHS is an equal opportunity employer where employment is based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination because of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristics as established by law. This policy extends to all policies and procedures related to the recruitment and hiring, compensation, benefits, termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. updated 6/2024