Per Diem Play Therapist

Overview

Required Certification: LMHC/LCSW with a certification in Play Therapist

Reports to: Family Case Coordinator

Hours: Weekends as negotiated

Hourly Rate: $80/hour

FPWNY is a family stabilization hub for families at risk for or experiencing homelessness in our community. We are seeking a Licensed Mental Health Counselor or Social Worker with a certification in Play Therapy to join our team to assist children living in our Emergency Shelter program. The goal of this position is to build resilience and coping skills among the children we serve.

A successful candidate will be trauma-informed, culturally sensitive and be able to leverage play therapy to help children experiencing homelessness express their feelings, process experiences and develop coping mechanisms in a safe and nurturing environment. This position will have a high degree of independence and flexibility but be held to strict documentation and performance standards.

Please note:

this position is grant funded and not connected with a certified mental health agency. A successful candidate will work independently without supervision and records will be the property of the agency. This position does not count towards accreditation hours, does not require billing, does not carry insurance and does not include the ability to diagnose.

Duties

• Conduct initial assessments with both the child and the child’s parents to understand context
• Use play therapy techniques to help children express their feelings and learn coping mechanisms
• Create a safe and supportive environment for the child to engage in therapeutic play
• Work with parents and caregivers to provide guidance and strategies for supporting the child’s emotional health
• Maintain service notes and documentation in Family Link
• Collaborate with other providers and educational professionals to coordinate care and support for the child as needed
• Safety plan with families and staff regarded crisis intervention when necessary
• Refer clients to community-based mental health resources as needed
• Complete all required trainings and attend necessary additional training, supervision and team meetings

Skills and other Qualifications

• Minimum Education:
  
  Master’s Degree in Psychology, Counseling or related field
• Certificate/License:
  Have active NYS licensure as LCSW, LCAT, LMFT, LMHC or Licensed Psychologist with a certification in Play Therapy
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, including families with children
• Strong problem solving skills from a solutions-focused approach
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently in the field
• Good ethical decisions, including displaying behavior appropriate to a mentor who works in close contact with children
• Background checks required
• Must have a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and access to reliable transportation
• Complies with agency standards of conduct and professionalism
• Demonstrates knowledge of the program, mission and services of FPWNY
• Complies with all policies and procedures in Employee Handbooks
• Is able to work in an alcohol and drug free environment
• Ability to demonstrate self-care

To Apply: Please visit our website ny.org/jobs