Vocational Counselor

The Vocational Counselor at TGCW plays a crucial role in delivering vocational services to individuals in substance use recovery. This involves conducting assessments, providing individual and group counseling, and assisting clients with job search efforts while navigating barriers to employment.

To qualify as a Vocational Counselor at TGCW, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, psychology, sociology, or a related field, alongside two years of relevant experience, or one year with a master's degree. A valid NYS Driver's License is also required.

The Vocational Assistance Project at TGCW provides comprehensive vocational services, including identifying employment barriers, facilitating job search activities, giving access to financial assistance, and conducting vocational assessments, all tailored to help clients successfully reintegrate into the workforce.

At TGCW, the work culture for Vocational Counselors is supportive and values teamwork. Counselors are encouraged to engage with core values such as Balance, Accountability, Satisfaction, Inclusion, and Communication, contributing to a high-performing and collaborative work environment.

Daily responsibilities of a Vocational Counselor at TGCW include conducting vocational assessments, facilitating counseling sessions, documenting progress, attending team meetings, and maintaining compliance with regulations, all essential to delivering effective vocational support.

Yes, there is significant room for professional growth at TGCW. Vocational Counselors have access to ongoing training and development opportunities, allowing them to enhance their skills and advance within the organization while making a substantial impact on clients' lives.

The expected hourly rate for a Vocational Counselor at TGCW ranges from $22 to $24, based on the candidate's education and experience, making this a financially rewarding opportunity in the field.

When conducting a vocational assessment, it's essential to establish rapport with the client, gather detailed information about their skills and interests, and analyze barriers to employment. Use active listening and open-ended questions to guide the conversation, ensuring the assessment is comprehensive and client-centered.

In your answer, focus on your ability to create a supportive group environment, encourage participation, and foster discussions around skill-building and job readiness. Highlight any specific strategies or methods you've used to engage participants and address their unique needs.

Discuss specific techniques such as motivational interviewing, goal-setting, and exploring community resources. Emphasize your proactive approach in collaborating with clients to develop personalized action plans that address their unique challenges and circumstances.

Focus on your proactive strategies for gathering information, such as following industry news, participating in professional organizations, or utilizing labor market data provided by government agencies. Mention how this knowledge helps you guide clients towards in-demand job opportunities.

Address this question by describing your approach to building rapport and trust with resistant clients. Highlight the importance of empathy, active listening, and recognizing the client’s feelings, ultimately working to identify and reframe their perceptions about seeking employment support.

Explain how effective communication fosters trust and collaboration in the counseling process. Discuss your skills in verbal and written communication, and how you adapt your communication style to meet the individual needs of different clients.

Mention the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation as part of compliance and treatment planning. Discuss the specific tools or software you use to track progress and how you leverage this information to adapt counseling strategies effectively.

Share a concise, specific story that illustrates your role in a client's journey. Emphasize the strategies you used to guide them and the specific outcomes achieved, spotlighting your effectiveness and dedication as a Vocational Counselor.

Discuss your organizational skills and methods for prioritizing tasks. Mention any tools or techniques you use to manage your workload effectively, ensuring that essential documentation and client needs are promptly addressed.

In your response, reflect on your knowledge of the challenges faced by individuals in recovery, such as self-esteem issues, societal stigma, and relapse risks. Discuss strategies you employ to foster resilience and motivation in your clients during their vocational journey.