About this Mental Health Counselor role at Penn State University
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a/an 83.3% full-time equivalency (FTE) job with months off. The number of months off will be determined by the position's FTE percentage. The timing of months off will be set to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to HR105 FTE positions should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position is eligible for benefits associated with any full-time position. The salary grade and range listed in the posting is reflective of a 100% Full-time position. Full-time equivalency job offers may fall outside of the listed range due to the assigned percentage of effort.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State Schuylkill invites applications for a dedicated and student-centered professional to serve as a Mental Health Counselor. Reporting to the Director of Student Affairs, the Mental Health Counselor is a vital member of the Student Affairs team, providing essential clinical services and contributing to a holistic environment of care, wellness, and belonging for our student body.
As a key partner in the campus’s support network, the Counselor will collaborate with units across the institution – including Academic Affairs, Athletics, and Residence Life – to ensure a proactive and integrated approach to student mental health. The successful candidate will be a champion for student well-being, contributing to Penn State Schuylkill’s visibility as a supportive community and telling the story of the campus as a place where every student can thrive.
This is a 10-month, in-person, staff position (August–May).
The successful candidate will demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, abilities, and qualifications:
Proven ability to provide high-quality individual and group counseling, conduct comprehensive intakes, and develop effective, individualized treatment plans using evidence-based approaches (e.g., CBT, motivational interviewing).
Strong skills in clinical triage and crisis management, with the ability to provide immediate support and appropriate disposition for students in distress.
A commitment to working within a multidisciplinary team approach, participating in case consultations and coordinating care with psychiatric and medical providers.
Demonstrated ability to serve effectively on key university committees, such as the Behavioral Threat Management Team (BTMT), CARE Team, and the Committee for Substance Awareness and Prevention.
Experience developing and delivering innovative wellness initiatives and outreach activities.
A deep commitment to championing inclusion and fostering a profound sense of belonging, ensuring that mental health services are a cornerstone of a safe, welcoming, and supportive campus community for every student.
Excellence in maintaining accurate clinical records and documentation via Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems, with strong attention to detail and confidentiality
Excellent judgment and problem-solving skills, particularly regarding risk management, ethical standards, and campus safety.
Exceptional communication and relational skills, with the ability to foster trust with students and build strong partnerships with faculty, staff, and external referral sources.
Candidates should have the ability to provide services to a wide range of students. All clinicians on our staff perform their duties while adhering to and promoting trauma-informed care and healing-centered approaches and principles, in alignment with the establishment of the Commonwealth of PA as a trauma-informed, healing centered state.
For full consideration, please submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references. Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position has been filled.
Master’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related discipline.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Senior Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $94,980.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
