The Social Worker at Our Lady of Mercy Academy plays a crucial role in supporting the overall well-being, emotional development, and academic success of students. They provide counseling, guidance, and advocacy services to address social, emotional, and behavioral issues that may affect students' academic progress and personal growth. The social worker collaborates with staff, parents, and community resources to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters the holistic development of students.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Individual and Group Counseling:
- Conduct individual counseling sessions with students to address personal, social, behavioral, or emotional concerns.
- Facilitate group counseling sessions to address common issues and promote positive peer interactions.
- Develop and implement counseling plans based on students' needs and goals.
2. Crisis Intervention:
- Provide immediate support and intervention in crisis situations, such as emotional distress, abuse, or suicidal ideation.
- Collaborate with school administration, teachers, and parents to develop crisis response protocols.
- Assist students in developing coping strategies to manage stress and emotional challenges.
3. Case Management and Referral:
- Assess students' social, emotional, and environmental circumstances to identify areas of concern.
- Coordinate and collaborate with external agencies, organizations, and community resources to provide necessary support and referrals.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case records to track student progress and intervention outcomes.
4. Advocacy and Collaboration:
- Serve as an advocate for students, promoting their rights, well-being, and access to resources.
- Collaborate with teachers, parents, and school staff to develop strategies for addressing students' social and emotional needs.
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams and meetings to develop individualized education plans or behavior intervention plans.
5. Prevention and Education:
- Develop and deliver workshops, presentations, and educational programs to address social and emotional topics relevant to students.
- Schedule outside professionals to present on topics of importance.
- Promote awareness and prevention of issues such as bullying, substance abuse, and mental health.
- Provide training and support to teachers and staff on identifying and addressing students' social and emotional needs.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Master's degree in Social Work or a related field.
- Licensure or certification as a social worker (required).
- Experience working with adolescents, preferably in an educational or counseling setting.
- Knowledge of social, emotional, and behavioral issues affecting students
- Knowledge of varying diagnoses and how symptoms may impact learning.
- Familiarity with Catholic values, teachings, and traditions.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive issues with empathy and professionalism.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple cases effectively.
- Collaboration and teamwork skills to work with students, families, staff, and external professionals.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Syosset, NY 11791: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Experience:
- Social work: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person