Residential counselors go by many titles. Some of these are human service
worker, developmental service worker and community support worker.
Residential counselors work in group homes, supported-living situations
and residential facilities. They assist people of all ages who need help due
to physical, developmental or other challenges.
Residential counselors might provide services to people with a moderate
to severe physical or mental handicap. Others might provide care to battered
women, pregnant teens, homeless people, people in alcohol and drug facilities
and so on.
A residential counselor's work includes assigning rooms, keeping records
and overseeing housekeeping tasks. They help with social activities, meals,
medications and finances. They order supplies, arrange for building maintenance
and provide counseling and instruction regarding personal or social problems.
The work can be physically demanding. It depends on the type of facility,
but most tasks involve heavy lifting and taking people for walks.
Most counselors work shift work. Eight-hour days are common. But depending
on the facility, they could work evenings, nights and weekends. People who
are hired for part-time work are more likely to get the weekends and holidays.