Alternative to Detention (A2D) Mental Health Counselor

Job Type Full-timeDescription Do you want to be part of an innovative juvenile justice program that helps keep youth out of detention? Do you want to be part of a team that helps youth in a new statewide project to divert detention placements?Do you have experience working within a detention setting or with juveniles who are facing court proceedings?Do you have ideas on how to help prevent youth from further engagement in criminal or delinquent behaviors?Want to be part of an innovative team that works to stabilize youth and return to a community setting rather than a detention center? Come join our newest A2D (Alternative to detention) program in Commerce City!This entry level position is a great way to launch your career in counseling, mental health, social services, psychology, behavioral health and human services as a counselor, therapist, mental health technician, mental health therapist, mental health counselor and substance abuse counselor. Compensation: In accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the expected salary range for this Colorado position is between $21.50- $26.75 per hour. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience and other job related factors permitted by law. Benefits: Insurance benefits include health, dental, vision, life, accident, and critical illness403(b) retirement plan with matchClassPass MembershipPaid time off and personal leaveMileage reimbursementEmployee assistance programThis position provides a valuable opportunity for recent graduates to apply their education, gainhands-on experience, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of young adults transitioning fromfoster care.10% off tuition at CCU for their online programsGrowth opportunities are available throughout the agency as we love to promote from within!May be eligible for student loan forgiveness through the Public Service Federal Loan Forgiveness ProgramShift: Sunday - WednesdaySunday 9:00 am - 10:00 pmMonday 2:30 pm - 10:00 pmTuesday 2:30 pm - 10:00 pmWednesday 9:00 am - 10:00 pmDesirable attributes:Strong, positive role model for youthAbility to provide a safe and caring environment for youth who require guidance, supervision and hopeAbility to uphold boundariesAbility to identify youth's behaviorsKnowledge of interventions needed for youth who have engaged in delinquent behaviorsCrisis management skillsResponsibilities and Duties:Work with MA level Clinicians and Special Education Teachers on a daily basisCollaborate within the framework of the client's treatment team in the completion of instructional activities and behavior managementImplement treatment plans and individualized education plans in an appropriate manner as directed by the client's clinician and teacher Implement and maintain structure within the program and create/follow a routineProvide intensive supervision, documentation, and organizationUtilize strong verbal de-escalation and positive strong boundariesBasic meal preparation and light housekeepingConduct daily room inspections and15-minute bed checks with a focus on safety and securityTransport clients to and from school, activities, appointments, etc.Attend treatment team and required trainingsResponsible for working with youth who have emotional and behavioral issues resulting from trauma and neglect, and who display verbal and physical aggression.Requirements Must have a professional mentalityMust have a valid Colorado driver's license or the ability to obtain one with a clean motor vehicle recordDue to the short length of stay for these clients, mastery of direct care skills are a mustApplicants must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening as a condition of employment, in accordance with Colorado Department of Human Services regulations for child care facilities. This screening includes state criminal background checks, fingerprinting, sex offender registry searches, and abuse and neglect clearances. If the applicant has lived in any other state within the past five years, equivalent background and abuse/neglect checks from those states will also be conducted. In addition, all direct care applicants are required to complete a health evaluation or physical prior to beginning service to confirm they are fit for duty.Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must be at least 23 years of age (will consider 22 years of age) and meet one of the following educational and experience requirements:Two (2) years of college education (equivalent to 60 semester credits); ORAn Associate's degree; ORA high school diploma or equivalent plus two (2) years of experience in the human services field; ORA high school diploma or equivalent, plus 30 college semester credits, and at least one (1) year of experience in the human services fieldPreferred Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in related fieldPosting Date: 03/25/2026Application Window: Ongoing (Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis)

Created: 2026-04-15