Function:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, the Research Intervention Counselor will provide manualized counseling to study participants enrolled in behavioral HIV prevention and substance use treatment intervention trials. Study participants, who are at heightened risk for HIV transmission or acquisition, may have experienced marginalization due to factors including but not limited to: sexual and gender minority identities, substance use, engagement in transactional sex, and behavioral health problems, such as depression.

Duties:

1. Delivers study intervention and clinical support to study participants under the supervision of the Clinical Supervisor 50%

• Delivers study-specific manualized counseling to participants enrolled in behavioral HIV prevention and substance abuse treatment intervention trials. This may include counseling to improve linkage to and retention in HIV care and/or substance use treatment, and PrEP or antiretroviral medication adherence for HIV prevention and treatment
• Delivers risk reduction counseling for sexual risk taking, using the information, motivation, behavioral skills (IMB) model in a clear, non-judgmental manner
• Conducts structured assessments of depression and related psychosocial concerns
• Completes relevant documentation following counseling sessions, including session notes
• Monitors participant well-being and reports any safety concerns immediately to research team according to study protocol
• Completes safety assessments with participants and collaborates with clinical supervisor to support non-clinical research staff in addressing safety concerns
• Maintains participant confidentiality and adheres to the professional code of ethics of the American Psychological Association
• Participates in weekly individual and/or group clinical supervision

2. Supports the Coordination of Research Studies 25%

• Assesses site needs for intervention start-up and takes initiative to prepare site for study operations and procedures according to protocol and sponsor guidelines
• Supports day-to-day operations of study protocol including study visits, data storage and monitoring, and other study activities as needed
• Manages study specific documents according to guidelines of the Fenway Institute Institutional Review Board (IRB), NIH and/or study sponsor
• Serves as a community leader and educator, by presenting project information/results at local conferences, meetings and events on behalf of the Center for Health Equity Research and the study team
• Assists with research-related tasks and oversight across the project team

3. Supports Recruitment and Retention of Participants 15%

• Builds and maintains relationships with community partners and services providers for the purposes of recruitment and retention.
• Identifies recruitment opportunities and supports recruitment and retention of participants
• Attends coalition and community advisory/committee meetings as required

4. Performs related duties as required

Expectations:

• Maintains a positive attitude, is adaptable to a variety of situations, and is prepared to partake in any of the responsibilities described here
• Problem solves issues when possible and seeks support when needed
• Takes responsibility for assignments and deadlines, demonstrates responsiveness to supervision and works as part of a team
• Makes efficient use of time and resources; is punctual and dependable with schedule
• Serves as role model to other study staff, demonstrating professionalism, accountability, and dedication to the project and team at all times
• Engages in appropriate and regular communication with the Principal Investigator(s) and team members to ensure accountability, address conflict, and maintain healthy team dynamics

Requirements

We offer competitive salaries, and for those who qualify, an excellent benefits package; including comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans, and a retirement plan with employer match. We also provide 11 paid holidays, paid vacation, and more.

LGBTQ-identified persons, people of color, and others from historically underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.

Education

• Required: MA/MS/MSW in psychology, mental health, or behavioral science aspects of public health (or equivalent degree in a related field)
• Preferred: LCSW, Training in CBT, behavioral activation, and/or motivational interviewing

Experience

• 1-2 years of counseling experience with training in CBT, Behavioral Activation, and/or other evidence-based treatments (either during or after completion of graduate degree)
• Experience working with diverse groups of individuals, including but not limited to: people living with HIV, people of color, people who identify as LGBTQ, people who engage in sex work, and people engaged in substance use treatment
• Preferred experience or demonstrated interest in HIV prevention and substance use treatment.
• Prior professional community-based participatory research/implementation research preferred but not required

Job Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal, communication/counseling (written and verbal) skills
• Familiarity with using email and Microsoft word applications (e.g., Microsoft Word, Power-Point, Excel, Email)
• Meticulous attention to detail, organization, and ability to work on many different projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to talk about sensitive topics in a mature manner
• Interested in health disparities, public health, HIV and sexual and reproductive health
• Self-starter