Program Counselor - job 1 of 3

As a Program Counselor at the New York City Department of Correction (DOC), your primary responsibilities include implementing behavior modification programming, facilitating daily living activities, and actively participating in individual and group treatment sessions. You'll also mentor individuals exhibiting behavioral problems, maintain records of treatment progress, and support rehabilitation programs, all while ensuring a safe environment.

To be considered for the Program Counselor position at the New York City Department of Correction, candidates must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college along with two years of relevant experience in community work. Alternatively, candidates with a high school diploma and six years of experience in community-centered activities may also qualify. Importantly, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as specified.

Program Counselors at the New York City DOC support individuals in custody by implementing behavioral modification programs and encouraging positive behaviors and interactions. They actively engage with inmates, facilitate treatment activities, and respond to conflicts while mentoring those who need additional support, creating a constructive environment for rehabilitation.

The work environment for a Program Counselor at the New York City Department of Correction is dynamic and collaborative. You'll interact daily with individuals in custody, engage in treatment activities, and work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including correctional staff. This role involves addressing various behavioral issues and helping foster a rehabilitative atmosphere in a secure setting.

Program Counselors at the New York City Department of Correction have numerous opportunities for professional development, such as attending training sessions, workshops, and staff meetings. These opportunities allow Counselors to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving their capacity to provide effective support and programming for individuals in custody.

Discuss your educational background and relevant experience in community work or behavioral programs. Provide specific examples of your past roles where you successfully implemented programs or worked closely with individuals to facilitate positive change, emphasizing how these experiences prepare you for this position at the DOC.

When working with individuals exhibiting challenging behaviors, emphasize your focus on building trust and rapport. Share strategies you've used in the past, such as de-escalation techniques, mentoring, and positive reinforcement to encourage constructive behavior, showcasing your ability to create a safe environment conducive to rehabilitation.

Provide a detailed example from your past experiences where you were involved in implementing a behavior modification program. Describe the objectives, strategies used, the role you played in facilitating the program, and the outcomes that resulted, highlighting your problem-solving and communication skills.

Explain your approach to conflict resolution, which should include actively listening to all parties involved, assessing the situation objectively, and utilizing de-escalation techniques. Share any relevant experiences that illustrate your capability to maintain a calm atmosphere and your commitment to safety.

Discuss the importance of motivation in rehabilitation, stressing how it affects individuals' willingness to engage in treatment programs. Provide examples of how you've inspired or motivated individuals in the past, and your strategies for fostering a positive environment to encourage personal growth.

Share techniques you have used to promote compliance, such as clear communication of expectations, positive reinforcement for good behavior, and consistent enforcement of rules while providing support. Emphasize the importance of mutual respect in establishing authority.

Illustrate your past experiences working in multidisciplinary teams, detailing how you collaborated with various professionals, such as correctional officers, health care providers, and social workers. Emphasize your adaptability and how effective team dynamics lead to successful outcomes in a correctional setting.

Discuss your methods for documenting progress, including types of records you maintain, tools you utilize for assessment, and the kinds of information you deem important for tracking behavior changes and treatment goals, showcasing your organization and attention to detail.

Explain how you proactively seek out professional development opportunities, such as attending workshops, reading relevant literature, and networking with other professionals. Share any specific resources or organizations you follow to stay updated on best practices in rehabilitation.

Articulate your passion for rehabilitation and community service, highlighting the unique contributions you could bring to the Program Counselor role at the NYC DOC. Discuss how this position aligns with your career goals and your commitment to making a positive impact in people's lives.