Why Join JFCS of the Suncoast?

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others? At JFCS of the Suncoast, we are more than just an organization—we are a community driven by compassion, purpose, and a commitment to uplift those in need.

As one of the area’s leading mental health and human services agencies, we empower individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency and stability. Rooted in the Jewish tradition of helping all people, our services are offered on a non-denominational basis, ensuring everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.

At JFCS, we seek mission-driven and empathetic team members who are ready to bring their passion and skills to a supportive, purpose-driven team. Whether you’re providing direct client support or working behind the scenes, your work will have a lasting impact.

If you’re ready to join us on this inspiring journey, we can’t wait to welcome you to JFCS of the Suncoast!

Overview

The CYRS Counselor (LMHC/LCSW) provides time-limited, in-home prevention and intervention counseling for youth ages 9-17 and their families. This role supports and stabilizes clients who lack immediate access to mental health services. The position addresses a range of challenges, including suicidal ideation (with no immediate intent), aggression, maladaptive coping behaviors (e.g., self-harm), excessive emotional distress, repetitive flight risks, binge eating, and substance use.

Benefits:

• Retirement: 403(b) plan with matching contributions.
• Insurance: Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Time Off: Generous PTO starting at 15 days per year and 17-18 paid holidays annually, including federal and Jewish holidays.
• Work-Life Balance: Early closures on Fridays at 3:30 PM and a 37.5-hour work week.
• Well-Being: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct rapid risk assessments to determine if a child is in imminent danger and requires a higher level of care to ensure safety.
• Evaluate for current or recent suicidal thoughts, including assessing for means, intent, or plans if the individual responds affirmatively to screening questions.
• Provide in-home or community-based counseling sessions for clients and families, accommodating their schedules.
• Respond to incoming calls and referrals within 120 minutes, triaging as needed for escalation to the Sarasota Mobile Response Team (MRT).
• Address non-emergent calls within 48 hours.
• Identify and evaluate coping mechanisms, including skills the individual has used successfully in the past, to help stabilize crises.
• Develop and implement therapeutic action plans based on clinical needs; conduct weekly sessions to monitor progress.
• Create and maintain safety plans tailored to clients’ specific risks and presenting issues while fostering client strengths as protective factors.
• Provide referrals and coordinate with community resources for clients and families, including warm handoffs to providers.
• Conduct follow-ups for six months post-discharge at 30-day intervals.
• Complete required assessment tools and progress notes promptly and in compliance with agency and funding source standards.
• Meet agency productivity requirements set by the supervisor.
• Demonstrate cultural competency, sensitivity to the service population, and an understanding of socio-economic issues.

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field.
• Licensure: LMHC or LCSW required.
• Experience: At least 2+ years in behavioral health counseling and crisis intervention preferred.
• Other: Valid Florida driver’s license, availability to respond outside regular hours, and ability to pass a criminal background check.
• Language: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Proficiency in identifying and addressing the needs of abused and neglected children, child development, life span development, and family dynamics.
• Experience working with resistant individuals and families.
• Familiarity with evidence-based practices, including substance abuse treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other evidence-based modalities.
• Strong clinical documentation skills, with experience using electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Excellent time management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Professional demeanor with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to professional development in areas such as domestic violence, trauma, substance abuse, and vulnerable populations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Training Requirements:

• Attend all JFCS and Department of Children and Families (DCF) mandatory trainings.
• Maintain active Florida licensure by completing all required CEUs.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to move throughout agency locations and sit for extended periods during client sessions and meetings.

If you’re a compassionate, skilled professional eager to make a difference, apply today to join the JFCS team!