Mental Health Counselor II
BUCKELEW PROGRAMS·San Rafael, California
BUCKELEW PROGRAMS·San Rafael, California
Provide daily support and guidance to clients with mental health needs to promote recovery, autonomy, and independent living. Responsibilities include life skills coaching, medication prompts, and maintaining accurate clinical documentation.
Administrative Responsibilities Collaborate effectively as part of a team, maintaining prompt and clear communication with colleagues. Complete and maintain timely, accurate documentation including client notes, mileage logs, and other required records. In applicable program sites, ensure billing standards and requirements are met as directed by the supervisor. Facilitate or co-facilitate group support and house meetings. Client Support Responsibilities Teach and assist clients in performing daily living activities, adjusting support based on client readiness and independence levels. Observe and report changes in clients’ behaviors, moods, and safety concerns; implement safety protocols accordingly. Serve as a positive role model in promoting healthy routines and behaviors. Support clients with meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation, offering skill-building assistance as appropriate. Provide medication prompts, ensure proper storage, monitor adherence, and support timely refills as required by program guidelines. Provide client transportation using personal or agency vehicles; support clients in learning and using public transportation. Assist clients in attending and following up on medical and mental health appointments. Facility and Maintenance Responsibilities Perform minor maintenance and housekeeping duties as needed Reports needed facility Maintenance to Team Leader Program Quality and Compliance Ensure all services reflect best practices and align with clients’ recovery goals. Adhere to all legal, contractual, and regulatory requirements (e.g., CARF, Medi-Cal, HUD). Maintain a high level of professionalism, client satisfaction, and program integrity. QualificationsEducation and Experience Must meet Medi-Cal criteria for Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist: Associate degree with 6+ years’ experience in mental health as a specialist in physical restoration, social adjustment, or vocational adjustment, OR Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years’ experience in those fields, OR Master’s degree with 2+ years’ related experience. Previous experience must be in a mental health setting, working in areas such as physical restoration, social adjustment, or vocational support. Experience with individuals diagnosed with a mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders is preferred. Professional Skills and Requirements Fluent in English; bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to work independently, remain organized, and manage responsibilities with professionalism and good judgment. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to set boundaries and maintain a calm, supportive presence. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Must be a team player with flexibility and a desire to support clients and coworkers alike. Valid California driver’s license, insurable driving record, and access to a reliable, insured vehicle. Must be able to pass a Live Scan background check (for certain program placements). PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Able to perform intermittent physical tasks including bending, kneeling, stretching, reaching, lifting up to 30 pounds, and squatting. Able to perform extended activities including sitting, driving, standing, writing, and typing. Must have visual and auditory capacity sufficient for communication and documentation. Great Benefits! Medical, dental, vision and life and long-term disability insurance, Employee Assistance Program, flexible spending accounts for health, dependent and transit costs, retirement savings plan with company match, eligibility for loan forgiveness, continuing education credits available through our learning management system, discount program, paid meal breaks and generous paid time off. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a workplace that celebrates diversity, promotes equality, and fosters inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Requires an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree with corresponding years of experience (6+, 4+, or 2+) in a mental health setting. Must possess a valid California driver's license and be able to pass a Live Scan background check.
Market context
In California, behavioral-health roles tied to substance use disorder counseling and case management are typically supported by ongoing community and treatment-program demand. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a high school diploma, at least 2 years of SUD counseling or case management experience, and current Registered or Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor status. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and note that professional development and paid continuing education are listed as benefits.
