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Title
Text copied to clipboard!Correctional Counselor
Description
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We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Correctional Counselor to join our team and support the rehabilitation and reintegration of incarcerated individuals. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in counseling, psychology, or social work, and a deep understanding of the criminal justice system. As a Correctional Counselor, you will work closely with inmates to assess their needs, develop individualized treatment plans, and provide ongoing support to help them make positive changes in their lives.
Your primary responsibilities will include conducting assessments, facilitating group and individual counseling sessions, and coordinating with other professionals such as parole officers, psychologists, and social workers. You will also be responsible for maintaining detailed records, monitoring inmate progress, and preparing reports for parole hearings and other legal proceedings.
This role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to remain calm and professional in a challenging environment. You must be able to build trust and rapport with inmates while maintaining appropriate boundaries and ensuring institutional safety and security.
A successful Correctional Counselor is empathetic, patient, and committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their rehabilitation goals. You should be knowledgeable about evidence-based practices in correctional counseling and stay current with developments in the field.
This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others and contribute to public safety by reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry into the community.
Responsibilities
Text copied to clipboard!- Conduct psychological and behavioral assessments of inmates
- Develop and implement individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans
- Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions
- Monitor inmate progress and adjust treatment plans as needed
- Prepare reports for parole boards and legal authorities
- Collaborate with correctional staff, psychologists, and social workers
- Maintain accurate and confidential case records
- Provide crisis intervention and conflict resolution support
- Educate inmates on life skills, coping strategies, and relapse prevention
- Promote positive behavioral change and personal development
Requirements
Text copied to clipboard!- Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, criminal justice, or related field
- Master’s degree preferred
- Relevant certification or licensure may be required
- Experience in counseling or social services, preferably in a correctional setting
- Strong understanding of the criminal justice system
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain professionalism
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Knowledge of evidence-based counseling practices
- Empathy, patience, and a nonjudgmental attitude
Potential interview questions
Text copied to clipboard!- What experience do you have working in a correctional or institutional setting?
- How do you build trust with individuals who may be resistant to counseling?
- Describe a time you handled a crisis situation with an inmate.
- What counseling techniques do you find most effective in this environment?
- How do you maintain professional boundaries while building rapport?
- What strategies do you use to manage stress in high-pressure environments?
- How do you stay current with best practices in correctional counseling?
- Describe your experience with case documentation and report writing.
- How do you handle conflicts between inmates during group sessions?
- What motivates you to work in the correctional system?
