Group Home Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of social services, the role of a group home counselor is undeniably critical.

As society evolves and changes, the need for compassionate, skilled professionals who can support and guide individuals in group homes becomes increasingly pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely anticipated from a group home counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of group home counseling,

You’ve arrived at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable group home counselor job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Group Home Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

Group Home Counselors are responsible for providing emotional, mental, and sometimes physical support to residents of group homes, who often include the elderly, those with disabilities, or children in foster care.

They foster a safe, supportive environment and guide residents in life skills and personal development.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluate the needs and conditions of clients upon arrival and design individualized care plans
• Assist clients with daily life skills such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, and socializing
• Conduct group and individual counseling sessions to address personal and social problems
• Implement therapeutic interventions to support emotional and mental well-being
• Monitor medication intake and communicate with healthcare providers to ensure the health and safety of residents
• Document and maintain accurate records of each client’s progress and any incidents that occur
• Coordinate with social workers, medical professionals, and family members to provide holistic support
• Facilitate recreational and educational activities to promote skill development and social interaction
• Provide crisis intervention and manage any conflicts that arise within the group home
• Develop and maintain a safe, positive living environment for all residents

 

Group Home Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Group Home Counselor to provide support and counsel to individuals living in our group home setting.

The primary responsibilities of the Group Home Counselor include assisting residents with daily activities, leading therapeutic activities, and providing emotional support.

The ideal candidate will have experience working with diverse populations, display empathy and understanding, and be well-versed in crisis intervention and conflict resolution strategies.

The role of the Group Home Counselor is to foster a safe and supportive environment that promotes resident well-being and personal growth.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with daily activities and ensure the living environment is safe and supportive
• Develop and implement individualized care plans for each resident
• Lead and participate in group therapy sessions and therapeutic activities
• Provide emotional support and crisis intervention as needed
• Collaborate with team members, residents, and family members to ensure the best possible care for residents
• Maintain detailed case notes and report any changes in resident’s behavior, health, or living situation
• Adhere to all state regulations and ethical guidelines related to the care and treatment of residents in group homes

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a counselor or similar role
• Understanding of group home regulations and best practices
• Experience working with diverse populations and demonstrating cultural competence
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle crisis situations and diffuse conflict
• Knowledge of therapeutic activities and techniques
• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation and sick time
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Continuing education credits
• Opportunities for advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Group Home Counselor
• Work Environment: Group Home setting. May involve some travel for training or meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Group Home Manager or Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Group Home Counselor Do?

Group Home Counselors typically work in residential settings, catering to individuals who may be dealing with issues such as mental health disorders, substance abuse problems, or developmental disabilities.

They may also work with youths who come from troubled homes.

Their primary responsibility is to provide support and guidance to the residents of the group home.

They create a safe, structured environment where residents can learn life skills, and they help to promote residents’ emotional and social growth.

Group Home Counselors are often involved in the planning and implementation of daily activities designed to improve residents’ well-being.

They assist with meal preparation, housekeeping tasks, and ensure that residents maintain personal hygiene.

They are also responsible for monitoring the behavior of residents and intervening in crisis situations.

They may work with other professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and health care providers, to develop and execute treatment plans for each resident.

Part of their role includes documenting residents’ progress, behavior, and any noteworthy incidents that occur.

They communicate these updates to other members of the treatment team and potentially to the resident’s family.

Group Home Counselors may also conduct group sessions, where residents can share their experiences, express their feelings, and provide mutual support.

They aim to foster a sense of community within the home and empower residents to take control of their lives.

Through their role, Group Home Counselors play a significant part in helping individuals reintegrate into society and lead healthier, more productive lives.

 

Group Home Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Group Home Counselor should possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with the demands of their role, including:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to create a trusting and respectful environment for residents, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns.
• Strong communication skills to effectively converse with residents, their families, and other professionals involved in their care. This also includes the ability to listen empathetically and provide appropriate feedback.
• Problem-solving skills to handle a variety of situations, such as conflicts between residents, behavioral issues, and crisis situations.
• Counseling skills to provide emotional support and guidance to residents, helping them cope with personal issues and develop life skills.
• Knowledge and understanding of human behavior and developmental disorders to adapt methods and approaches according to the individual’s needs.
• Patience and resilience to handle the emotional stress associated with working with individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues, addiction, or other personal issues.
• Organizational skills to manage case records, prepare reports, and coordinate resident schedules and activities.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures to ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents.

 

Group Home Counselor Experience Requirements

Group Home Counselors often begin their career journey with a bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, psychology, or a related field.

Relevant work experience often includes internships or part-time roles in social services, counseling, or therapeutic settings.

Entry-level candidates typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in social work, counseling, or mental health services.

This initial experience is usually aimed at understanding the unique needs of the group home population, learning effective counseling techniques, and becoming familiar with the case management process.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of the psychological, emotional, and social issues facing group home residents.

These candidates may have specialized experience working with specific populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities or substance abuse problems.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered seasoned professionals who can handle more complex case management and counseling issues.

They may have some leadership experience and be ready for a supervisory or managerial role in a group home setting.

In addition to these requirements, group home counselors often need to maintain state licensure or certification in social work or counseling, which requires ongoing education and professional development.

 

Group Home Counselor Education and Training Requirements

Group Home Counselors generally require a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

These programs provide the necessary background in human behavior, social issues, counseling techniques, and crisis intervention strategies.

In addition to a degree, many states require Group Home Counselors to be licensed.

Licensing requirements generally include a certain amount of supervised clinical experience and passing a state-recognized exam.

For more specialized roles or advancement, a master’s degree in social work or a related field may be necessary.

This advanced study provides further training in counseling techniques, human development, and mental health issues.

Many Group Home Counselors also pursue certifications in specific areas of counseling, such as substance abuse, trauma, or mental health.

Continuing education is often important in this field, as it keeps counselors updated on new research and treatment methods.

Some counselors may also choose to earn a PhD or PsyD in order to conduct research or teach at the university level.

In addition to formal education and training, Group Home Counselors need strong communication skills, empathy, and patience to effectively help residents navigate their personal challenges.

 

Group Home Counselor Salary Expectations

A Group Home Counselor earns an average salary of $31,500 (USD) per year.

This compensation may fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, specific skills, location, and the organization they work for.

 

Group Home Counselor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Group Home Counselor need?

Group Home Counselors should have strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with the residents.

They should possess excellent problem-solving abilities to handle various situations and crises.

It’s also crucial for counselors to be empathetic, patient, and compassionate, as they often work with individuals who have mental health issues or disabilities.

Knowledge in basic health care, first aid and safety procedures, and understanding of behavior management techniques are also essential.

 

Do Group Home Counselors need a degree?

Many Group Home Counselors positions require a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as social work, psychology, or counseling.

Some positions might accept a high school diploma or equivalent with substantial work experience in social services.

Certain roles may also require a Master’s degree and state licensure.

 

What should you look for in a Group Home Counselor’s resume?

In a Group Home Counselor’s resume, look for a degree in a relevant field and any certificates or licenses required by your state.

Experience working with specific populations such as the elderly, children, or individuals with mental health issues or disabilities is also important.

Additionally, any training in crisis intervention, first aid, and behavior management techniques can be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Group Home Counselor?

A good Group Home Counselor is patient, compassionate, and empathetic, as they often work with individuals facing personal and social challenges.

They should be excellent communicators, able to make residents feel heard and understood.

They must also be adaptive and resilient, capable of handling stressful situations effectively.

Good problem-solving skills, a strong ethical sense, and a commitment to confidentiality are also key qualities.

 

What are the daily duties of a Group Home Counselor?

A Group Home Counselor typically starts the day by meeting with residents and reviewing their daily schedules.

They may assist residents with tasks like personal grooming, meal preparation, and medication administration.

They also facilitate and monitor recreational and therapeutic activities, and may conduct individual or group counseling sessions.

A significant part of their day might involve documentation and reporting progress or any incidents to supervisors or care teams.

In crisis situations, they apply de-escalation techniques and ensure the safety of all residents.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a group home counselor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about providing care.

It’s about crafting a brighter future, one person at a time.

With our go-to group home counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every individual in your care contributes to a bigger purpose.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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