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Join Our Team and Make a Difference Every Day

Founded in 1963 as a Child Guidance Clinic, West Bergen has grown into a comprehensive mental health center serving the residents of Bergen County and beyond. The agency offers a full spectrum of critical psycho-therapeutic treatments for children, adolescents, adults and families suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, including those resulting from COVID-19. Through its mission of hope and healing, the Agency now serves over 3,000 individuals, couples and families each year.

If you are a high energy, compassionate individual, interested in pursuing a career in the field of social work, and seeking to make a difference in the lives of others, West Bergen offers a nurturing, collegial, team-oriented environment.

Sign-On Bonus, up to $2000 for all newly hired staff.

Residential Counselor

Join our team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals on their recovery journey. The Residential Worker plays a vital role in supporting residents’ wellness, independence, and recovery through therapeutic engagement, life skills development, supportive counseling, medication management, and community-based activities.

Schedule

Multiple shifts are available, including full-time, part-time, overnight, weekend, and relief positions. Specific scheduling needs and opportunities can be discussed during the interview process.

Position Responsibilities

  • Foster a safe, supportive, and recovery-oriented residential environment.
  • Facilitate group activities and educational programs that promote wellness and independent living skills.
  • Provide supportive counseling and encouragement to residents as they work toward personal goals.
  • Assist with medication management and monitoring in accordance with agency policies.
  • Support residents in developing social, vocational, and daily living skills.
  • Collaborate with treatment teams to ensure high-quality, person-centered care.

Qualifications

We welcome candidates from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. Qualified applicants may possess:

  • A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in mental health, health sciences, social services, or a related human services field; OR
  • Licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN); OR
  • One or more years of college education combined with related work or lived experience totaling four years (including at least one year of related experience); OR
  • Licensure as a Practical Nurse (LPN) plus two years of related work or life experience; OR
  • A high school diploma (or equivalent) plus four years of related work or life experience.

Candidates must obtain CPR and First Aid certification prior to providing services independently and within 30 days of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in mental health, behavioral health, residential services, or related human services settings.
  • Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets agency insurance requirements.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
  • Commitment to recovery-oriented and trauma-informed care practices.

Benefits & Compensation

We believe in taking care of the people who take care of our community. Full‑time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical and dental coverage
  • Employer‑paid life insurance and long‑term disability insurance
  • A 403(b) retirement plan with employer match (when eligible)
  • Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
  • Optional voluntary benefits such as critical illness, accident, and supplemental life insurance

You’ll also enjoy generous paid time off — vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave — because balance matters.

Part‑time employees may also qualify for select benefits depending on scheduled hours.

Starting pay: $17.13 per hour

Internship Opportunities as Available

We are proud to support the next generation of behavioral health professionals. Graduate-level internship and practicum opportunities may be available for students enrolled in Master’s programs in:

  • Social Work (MSW)
  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Clinical Counseling
  • Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Related behavioral health disciplines

Interns receive hands-on experience in residential mental health services while working alongside experienced professionals in a supportive learning environment. Opportunities for supervision and professional development may be available based on program requirements.

Additional Information

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, based on organizational needs.

 

All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status,

Resumes should contain a cover letter indicating position being applied for. Forward to:  HR@westbergen.org or fax to  201-957-1566