Mental Health Counselor (26-27 SY)

About Freire Schools

Established in 1999, Freire Schools is a network of four charter schools across Philadelphia and Delaware whose mission is to prepare students from historically underserved communities for success in college and beyond.

We’re distinguished by our belief in every student who walks through our doors, our strong code of conduct and commitment to peace that ensures a safe environment for all, our sense of family throughout our community, and our joyous and engaged classrooms that focus on academic achievement.

As evidence of our impact, in 2023 Stanford’s Center for Research on Education Outcomes ranked Freire Schools in the top 15 in the country for academic gains out of 368 charter networks nationwide.

About the Team

For this Mental Health Counselor position, you’ll be working at Freire Charter High School in Center City, Philadelphia. Philadelphia Magazine recently named Freire Charter High School (#18) among the top high schools in Philadelphia.

While we’re proud of our accomplishments, we’re not bound by tradition—if something isn’t working, we take a proactive, solutions-oriented approach.

Since Freire’s founding in 1999, our network has achieved strong outcomes for students through a rigorous college-preparatory program and a deep commitment to peace, within our walls and beyond.

Freire Charter High School (9–12): 2027 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

What You’ll Do

Our Mental Health Counselor will report directly to our Director of Emotional Supports, a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years experience. You will work with staff and families to provide high-quality mental health care and support for our students through a school-based clinical program.

Responsibilities

Provide Individual and Group Counseling for Students

• Provide intervention and de-escalation support to students in crisis and follow all documentation protocol
• Coordinate with school staff and track referrals to the Emotional Support program
• Connect with families to assist with outside supports and resources
• Attending professional development sessions and relevant trainings

Who You Are

You are a compassionate, culturally responsive counselor who believes every student deserves a safe space to be seen, heard, and supported. You build trusting relationships quickly and know how to de-escalate crises with empathy and skill. You understand the unique challenges urban high school students face and are committed to helping them navigate social, emotional, and behavioral hurdles so they can thrive.

We’re looking for someone who meets the minimum requirements to be considered for the role. If you meet these requirements, you are encouraged to apply.

Minimum Requirements

• Masters degree in mental health counseling, clinical social work, or related
• Experience working with urban youth
• Strong analytical skills and keen attention to detail
• Ability to complete projects in a timely manner and adhere to numerous deadlines
• Demonstrates flexibility and maintains confidentiality

Pay and Benefits

This role requires a minimum commitment of 30 hours per week, with full-time availability strongly preferred. We offer a competitive salary based on your experience and qualifications. Our benefits package includes health, dental, vision, and more. Pennsylvania employees are enrolled in Freire’s 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 5% contribution from Freire.

Freire Schools is committed to maintaining a workplace environment that is free from all forms of discrimination and discriminatory harassment, in service of the policy goal to provide all persons equal access to all categories of employment regardless of a person’s actual or perceived race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and expression), age, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, ethnic background, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions, disability, veteran/military status, or any other category protected by state or federal law.