Student Assistance Counselor

Description:

Do you believe one trusted adult can change a student’s entire story?
We do too.

We are hiring a Student Assistance Counselor (SAC) to join a school-based team that supports students navigating substance use, stress, trauma and related challenges.

You will be embedded directly in a school community - working alongside educators, families, and community partners - to help students get back on track, stay connected to learning, and access the support they need to thrive.

This is a full-time, in-person, school-year position with annualized (year-round) pay.

This is not office work.

This is relationship-building work. Prevention work. Hope-building work.

What you will do:

• Develop and lead school-wide prevention campaigns focused on substance use prevention and mental health.
• Provide classroom-based substance use prevention education using evidence based curriculum.
• Screen and identify students at risk and connect them to the appropriate level of care
• Provide short term, brief intervention and support to students
• Facilitate evidence-based individual and group early intervention programs
• Support students reentering school after treatment or crisis
• Collaborate closely with school administrators, teachers, school-based mental health team, and families
• Document services, referrals, and outcomes in a secure electronic data system
• Be a steady, calm presence when things feel unsteady

Who you are:

• You believe substance use prevention and early intervention matters
• You are calm and thoughtful in high-pressure or uncertain situations
• You listen more than you talk, and respond with empathy and clear boundaries
• You understand that behavior is communication, especially for young people navigating stress or trauma
• You can build trust with young people who may be hesitant to engage or have been disappointed by adults in the past
• You value collaboration and work effectively with educators, families, and community partners
• You are organized, ethical, and accountable, with strong attention to documentation and follow-through
• You are comfortable working in a fast-paced school environment where priorities can shift quickly

Requirements:

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in behavioral health specialty: Social Work, Counseling or Psychology
• Must be willing to apply for RI Student Assistance Certification (CSAC) after two years of full-time employment or the equivalent
• Demonstrate strong computer competence using electronic data systems, email, and Google Workspace.
• Professional verbal, written, and presentation/group facilitation skills
• Ability to exercise sound professional judgment, manage crises, and maintain highest ethical standards/boundaries
• Knowledge of best practices in substance use prevention, treatment and education, school policies and procedures, and relevant educational practices.
• On-going compliance with professional continuing education requirements

What we offer

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to Union and Non-Union members, which includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance Coverage
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Matching Contributions
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Professional Development and Continuing Education Opportunities
• Reimbursement for Licensing Fees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance
• Salary differential for RIDOH professional license and bilingual fluency