Job Title                                                               Cognitive Counselor

Hiring Range                                                      $37,740 - $75,040

Job Type                                                              Full Time Exempt

Job Location                                                       Augusta Correctional Center - Craigsville, Virginia

How to Apply                                                    http://jobs.virginia.gov (key in position number 00311)

Job Open for Recruitment                           June 25th – July 12th

Job Announcement

The Virginia Department of Corrections is currently seeking a cognitive counselor professional to plan, coordinate and implement, and evaluate the institution’s approach to offender reentry and cognitive community based on principles of evidence based practices. Operations, programs and services are founded on the well-established, contemporary body of evidence-based practices for offender management that complement traditional security tools and incorporate the following: effective communication; identifying offender criminal risks and treatment needs; motivating offender change through case plan agreements, incentives and sanctions; and providing programs/services to address criminogenic needs.

This position must have basic knowledge of the principles and techniques of social work or rehabilitative counseling, and of casework and treatment methods including motivational interviewing and various intervention techniques. Knowledge of offender programs and supervision techniques. Ability to resolve conflict, role model pro-social values and responsible behavior, to manage clinical/therapeutic boundaries, and to co-lead multidisciplinary teams while evaluating and documenting offender treatment progress. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, manage a specialized caseload while maintaining the Counselor’s Code of Ethics.

Prefer working experience with offenders in reentry, pre-release and/or cognitive community settings. Prefer Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with course work in social work, rehabilitative counseling or other related human services field. Prefer Masters Degree in human services field. Prefer professional certification in a relevant human services field or counseling discipline.

All applicants are subject to a background investigation and pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include: fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks requested by the hiring authority.

Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through the aforementioned website. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and résumés will not be accepted.