Lead Counselor

Lead Counselor – SYC Crisis Support Services (CSS)

Full-Time | Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 6:00pm with participation in an on-call rotation for phone calls

SYC Crisis Support Services (CSS) is a mobile crisis response program serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We provide 24/7/365 crisis prevention, emergency intervention, and stabilization services, working closely with families, Regional Centers, and community partners to promote safety, stability, and long-term success.

We’re looking for an experienced Lead Counselor who thrives in fast-paced environments, enjoys mentoring others, and is passionate about crisis prevention and behavioral health support.

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Counselor, you’ll provide direct crisis response and prevention services while also supporting the coordination, training, and administrative functions of the CSS team.

Clinical & Crisis Response

• Respond to behavioral and emotional crises via phone and in-person intervention
• Conduct risk assessments and implement de-escalation strategies
• Develop and support individualized safety plans, coping skills, and treatment goals
• Provide ongoing prevention visits and follow-up support
• Coordinate with hospitals, law enforcement, Regional Centers, and community partners
• Participate in the on-call rotation and crisis triage

Team Support

• Assist with New referrals, intakes, introductions to services, and database documentation
• Help prioritize crises and adjust schedules based on acuity and resources
• Support quality documentation, reports, and service coordination

Documentation & Organization

• Complete clinical notes, safety plans, intakes, and database entries accurately and on time
• Maintain an active caseload and schedule
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and certifications
• Complete weekly reports

Workload Expectations

• Minimum caseload: 20 clients
• Fieldwork: At least 120 hours/month (face-to-face services)
• Prevention services: Minimum 10 prevention appointments per week

What We’re Looking For

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related field
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and clean driving record
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations
• Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills

Preferred

• 2+ years working with individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health needs
• At least 1 year of direct crisis or behavioral intervention experience
• Experience supporting individuals with aggressive or high-risk behaviors

Why Join SYC

• Meaningful, hands-on work supporting individuals during critical moments
• Strong team culture with ongoing training and clinical support
• Opportunity to grow into leadership and advanced clinical roles
• Dynamic balance of field-based work and office-based coordination

SYC is an equal opportunity employer.
We value compassion, professionalism, and teamwork — and we’re committed to supporting staff as they support others.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Language:

• Spanish (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person