JUVENILE COURT COUNSELOR II
(JRC/Detention)
DEFINITION
Under direction, to provide the necessary counseling and case coordinating functions for juveniles in residence at the Dane County Detention Home; to performJuvenile Reception Center intake duties; and to do related work as required.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Performs short-term counseling with juveniles, generally related to the overall case plan and/or adjustment at the Detention Home; acts as a liaison, provides outreach and information to juveniles, parents, social workers, attorneys, school personnel and others involved in case planning or placement; monitors the movement of the juvenile's case through the court and/or placement process; works closely with the Detention Superintendent to discuss juvenile’s behavior, assess needs, adjust programming, communicate with others, etc.;provides input into the overall Detention home and Juvenile Court Program; helps develop policy and procedure;
Interviews juveniles referred by law enforcement and others and makes determination under 938 of Wisconsin Statutes to release or impose orders of physical custody; counsels with children and parents in crisis situations; releases children from custody; makes referrals to public or private social service agencies; participates at physical custody and other Juvenile Court hearings; participates in community programs and committees to reduce juvenile delinquency, child abuse and related problems; thoroughly documents and updates files; recruits and supervises student interns; trains staff; assists supervisor with operations, as necessary; provides internal and external training; other duties as required.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Masters Degree in social work, counseling or a related field preferred. Bachelor’s Degree in social work, counseling or related field with any combination of training and experience equivalent to a Masters degree accepted. Additional consideration will be given to candidates who possess social work certification or clinical license from the WI Department of Safety and Permanence or other applicable certifications.
Qualified applicants will also need a minimum of two years experience primarily involving assessment and counseling of juveniles experiencing significant behavior and emotional problems. Juvenile Court related experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge and understanding of child behavior, growth, trauma and maladaptive behaviors;effective oral and written communication skills with the ability to write clear and accurate records; ability to evaluate juvenile and adult behavior and attitudes; ability to make reasoned decisions in situations of tension or pressure; ability to plan and organize work to achieve program objectives efficiently and effectively; ability to work cooperatively and effectively with agency staff, local officials and with other public or voluntary personnel; ability to communicate with adolescents, parents and others working with an adolescent in a culturally competent manner; ability to understand the juvenile court process and the Children’s and Juvenile Justice codes; knowledge of community resources available for adolescents and families; knowledge of and ability to use various counseling techniques with juveniles and families; ability to evaluate and provide constructive input to the department.
Special Requirements: Must have (or be eligible for) a valid Wisconsin driver's license, access to personal transportation and a good driving record.