Residential Support Counselor (Jordan House

Residential Support Counselor

The Residential Support Counselor (RSC) supports a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing direct care, guidance, and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This role ensures a safe, high-quality, structured, trauma-informed care in a therapeutic, supportive, and person-centered environment while fostering independence and life skills development. The RSC will implement behavior management strategies, assist with daily living activities, and support residents in residential, group homes, and community settings.

Schedules are flexible, may include early mornings, evenings, overnights, weekdays, weekends, holidays, mandated overtime, mandated holds, and on call responsibilities. The RSC reports to the program designated supervisor.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Monitor and support residents' behavior using trauma-informed care and positive reinforcement techniques.
• Implement individualized behavioral support plans (PBSP) to promote skill-building and adaptation of positive alternative behaviors.
• Provide direct supervision, mentoring, and crisis intervention as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention support using approved Physical/Psychological Management Training (PMT) techniques.
• Teach and assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks.
• Organize and implement structured therapeutic and recreational activities to encourage socialization and personal growth.
• Transport residents to medical appointments, off-site activities, and community integration programs.
• Maintain accurate and timely records, including behavioral data, progress reports, and incident reports in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and clinical staff to ensure consistent support for residents.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and treatment planning discussions.
• Follow established procedures for emergencies, illnesses, and crisis situations, including mandatory reporting and documentation.
• Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies, state regulations, and ethical guidelines.
• Secure the facility by performing safety checks, monitoring medication storage, and ensuring proper supervision of residents.
• May be mandated to maintain designated level of care within the residential program. This includes being sent to alternative locations for appropriate level of supervision, medical care, and/or medication administration.
• Work additional hours, including mandated overtime, to ensure adequate staffing levels and the continuity of care for individuals served. This includes remaining on duty beyond scheduled shifts when necessary due to unforeseen staffing shortages or emergencies.
• May be required to work Holidays, during inclement weather, and other times as directed by management.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills:

• Ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with residents, families, and team members.
• Active listening and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong relationship-building skills with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Patience, empathy, and emotional intelligence.
• Accurately record daily activities, incidents, and behavioral observations.
• Write clear, concise reports for supervisors and case managers.
• Ability to respond appropriately to behavioral or emotional crises.
• Use de-escalation techniques effectively.
• Organize tasks and prioritize responsibilities to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and basic Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, email).

Knowledge:

• Understanding of common mental health diagnoses and developmental disabilities.
• Awareness of trauma-informed care practices.
• Familiarity with daily living supports, personal care assistance, and community integration.
• Knowledge of hygiene, medication administration (if applicable), emergency protocols, and safety procedures.
• Understanding of positive behavioral supports, reinforcement, and behavior management plans.
• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and ethical standards in residential care.

Abilities:

• Assist residents with hygiene, meals, medication, and community outings.
• Encourage and support skill-building and self-sufficiency among residents.
• Ability to take initiative and also collaborate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.
• Flexibility to adjust to different situations, behaviors, or resident needs.
• Balance empathy with…