About the Role:
The Mental Health Professional provides therapeutic support and guides reflection sessions for youth participating in UnChained’s Canines Teaching Compassion program. This role creates safe, trauma-informed spaces where youth can process their experiences and deepen the impact of working with program dogs.
Why It Matters:
This position helps youth build empathy, communication skills, and resilience while ensuring the emotional wellbeing of both youth and dogs. Your work directly supports UnChained’s mission to heal through the human-animal bond.
Key Responsibilities:
Facilitate group reflection sessions and Chat Circles for youth participants.
Provide trauma-informed therapeutic support during program activities.
Guide conversations that foster healing, empathy, and personal growth.
Collaborate with Program Dog Trainers, volunteers, and staff for holistic care.
Support youth social-emotional learning goals.
Participate in team meetings and trainings.
Uphold confidentiality and ethical standards.
Qualifications:
Master's level in Social Work or Therapy is acceptable.
Strong facilitation and communication skills.
Compassionate, flexible, and committed to youth wellbeing and dignity.
Preferred:
Experience with trauma-informed practices.
Experience working with adolescents in residential or correctional settings.
Familiarity with animal-assisted therapy or the human-animal bond.
Position Details:
Part-time, 5–8 hours per week.
On-site at Monterey County Juvenile Hall (Salinas).
UnChained is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.
