Hire Counselors
There is no uniform reaction to stress. When a person experiences any level or type of trauma, counselors provide essential coping tools, a listening ear, and the supportive presence needed to deal with the past, face the day, and brave the future.
Finding a counselor begins with drafting an accurate job description that encourages qualified candidates to apply. For a compelling job post, hiring managers should be clear, concise, and detailed. Are you looking for candidates who live in a specific area? What is the schedule? Is prior experience required? Carefully outline the responsibilities as well as requirements. These details will help candidates picture themselves working in your clinic or practice. Depending on the need, counselors may work in hospitals, mental health facilities, clinics, and community centers on a part-time or full-time basis.
Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on healthcare-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well. Getting referrals from other medical professionals and current employees is a helpful way to source candidates. Your staff may already know a great licensed counselor, so let them know about the job opening.
Counselor Responsibilities
A counselor provides guidance and direction to patients who are undergoing traumatic or stressful situations. They help patients explore their feelings and conduct interviews calmly and respectfully, allowing the patients to share information that they are comfortable sharing. Through clinical observation and analysis, counselors can develop a treatment plan using appropriate methods, counseling, exercises, and other activities. The counselor facilitates one on one or group therapy sessions to implement needed interventions.
Additionally, the counselor monitors the patient’s response and progress to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan and adjusts as needed. Detailed documentation of notes and observations are made in each session and serve as a guide throughout the treatment duration.
Depending on the needs of the patient, the counselor also recommends other resources and community support groups that are available to the patient. Lastly, the counselor may collaborate with other medical professionals for medication as needed. It is of utmost importance for counselors to uphold confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
Counselor Skills and Qualifications
To qualify as a counselor, a candidate should hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or counseling, and the appropriate license or certification. Previous work experience is typically required.
An ideal candidate is a person who is compassionate, trustworthy, and professional. Candidates must have excellent active listening and problem-solving skills. Moreover, strong communication skills and empathy are crucial as counselors interact closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
The experience of any trauma or stress is personal. Be it abuse, an illness, or any form of loss; patients need help from a professional to process their feelings and experiences. A counselor helps patients acknowledge and explore their feelings, survive the situation, access help, and recover significantly in time.
