Counseling Program Director

About the Role:

The Counseling Program Director will lead and oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of counseling services within the organization. This role is pivotal in ensuring that counseling programs meet the highest standards of quality, compliance, and effectiveness to support the mental health and well-being of clients. The director will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design innovative counseling strategies and ensure alignment with organizational goals and community needs. They will also be responsible for managing staff, budgeting, and reporting to stakeholders on program outcomes and impact. Ultimately, the Counseling Program Director will drive the vision and operational excellence of counseling services to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for all clients.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or equivalent licensure as required by state regulations.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in counseling or mental health services, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of counseling theories, practices, and ethical standards.
• Proven experience managing programs, budgets, and multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in Counseling, Psychology, or related discipline.
• Experience working with diverse populations and implementing culturally competent counseling services.
• Familiarity with grant writing and securing funding for mental health programs.
• Experience with data-driven program evaluation and quality improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of telehealth counseling platforms and digital mental health tools.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and evaluate counseling programs to ensure they meet client needs and regulatory requirements.
• Supervise, mentor, and provide professional development opportunities for counseling staff and program coordinators.
• Manage program budgets, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure financial sustainability of counseling services.
• Collaborate with community partners, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to enhance program reach and effectiveness.
• Monitor program performance through data collection and analysis, preparing detailed reports for senior leadership and funding agencies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, ethical standards, and accreditation requirements related to counseling services.
• Lead strategic planning initiatives to expand and improve counseling offerings based on emerging trends and client feedback.

Skills:

The Counseling Program Director will utilize strong leadership and organizational skills daily to manage program operations and guide staff effectively. Excellent communication skills are essential for collaborating with internal teams, external partners, and clients to ensure program goals are met and services are delivered compassionately. Analytical skills will be applied to assess program data, identify areas for improvement, and implement evidence-based strategies. The director will also employ budgeting and resource management skills to maintain financial health and sustainability of counseling services. Additionally, proficiency in regulatory compliance and ethical standards will ensure that all counseling activities adhere to professional guidelines and legal requirements.