Summary The Residential Care Counselor is responsible for the care and safety of assigned children in a therapeutic residential setting. As a member of the multidisciplinary treatment team, this role contributes to the development of residential treatment plans and implements, observes, and documents all aspects of the program under the direction of the Residential Care Supervisor.

Employees are expected to model the organization’s values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, and demonstrate the Success Factors of Instilling Trust, Valuing Differences, Patient & Community Focus, and Collaboration.

Responsibilities

Residential Milieu Support

• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment.

• Implement residential care plans according to program policies.

• Maintain and document required levels of child observation each shift.

• Supervise children in daily routines and assist with activities of daily living.

• Identify, report, and help resolve safety or behavioral concerns.

• Provide timely verbal and written follow‑up after critical incidents.

• Intervene in disruptive or unsafe situations using approved therapeutic techniques.

Professional Standards

• Follow all hospital, departmental, and program policies.

• Attend program meetings and required trainings.

• Maintain current certifications in crisis management, CPR, ERS, Safety, and OSHA.

• Participate in ongoing staff development.

Treatment Planning & Documentation

• Participate in the admission process as assigned.

• Support the initial therapeutic alliance with children and families.

• Complete initial milieu assessment within 24 hours of admission.

• Develop an initial problem list and residential care plan within 24 hours.

• Review and revise care plans daily based on observations.

• Communicate treatment plans to program staff and collaborate with multidisciplinary providers.

• Participate in DPCs, treatment team meetings, and shift reports.

• Document significant observations and milieu interventions in the child’s chart in a timely manner.

• Share knowledge and experience with colleagues through formal and informal learning opportunities.

Behavioral & Therapeutic Support

• Teach and assist children with daily living skills and personal hygiene based on developmental level.

• Set consistent therapeutic limits aligned with program standards.

• Implement individualized behavioral programs in collaboration with clinicians.

• Participate in organizing and running program activities.

• Model appropriate therapeutic interactions with children and families.

• Support and participate in recreation therapy programming.

• Manage crises safely using the least restrictive interventions.

• Seek supervision proactively and incorporate feedback into practice.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field preferred.

• Equivalent education/experience may be considered.

Experience

• Six months to one year of direct childcare experience with emotionally impaired youth.

• Current Bradley Hospital Crisis Management certification or enrollment in the course.

• Current CPR, ERS, Safety, and OSHA certifications.

Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to provide developmentally appropriate care across the lifespan.

• Understanding of human development, cultural factors, and therapeutic communication.

Supervisory Responsibility

• None.

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EEO Statement:

Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

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