Website UnChained
Unleashing human potential... One dog at a time.
Mental Health Facilitator (Part-Time)
Organization: UnChained
Location: Monterey County Juvenile Hall (Salinas, CA)
Start Date: Immediately upon hiring
Job Purpose
The Mental Health Facilitator provides therapeutic support and guides reflection sessions for youth participating in UnChained’s Dogs In Residence program. This role creates safe, trauma-informed spaces where youth can process their experiences and deepen the impact of working with program dogs.
Job Importance
The Mental Health Facilitator helps youth develop empathy, communication skills, and resilience as they work with dogs through positive reinforcement training. This position is central to ensuring that the program supports both the emotional wellbeing of the youth and the success of the dogs in preparing for adoption.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Mental Health Facilitator performs a wide range of duties, including:
• Facilitate group reflection sessions and Chat Circles for youth participants.
• Provide trauma-informed therapeutic support to youth throughout program activities.
• Guide conversations that foster healing, empathy, and personal growth.
• Collaborate with Program Dog Trainers, volunteers, and staff to ensure holistic support for youth and dogs.
• Support the development of youth social-emotional learning goals.
• Participate in team meetings and trainings to align with program direction.
• Provide input on program effectiveness and support curriculum development as needed.
• Uphold confidentiality and ethical standards in all interactions with youth and staff.
Required Qualifications
• Licensed or license-eligible mental health professional (LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, or equivalent).
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent facilitation and group leadership skills.
• Compassionate, flexible, and deeply committed to youth wellbeing, growth, and dignity.
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with trauma-informed practices.
• Experience working with adolescents in residential, correctional, or comparable settings.
• Experience collaborating in interdisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with animal-assisted therapy or the human–animal bond.
Accountability
The Mental Health Facilitator is hired by UnChained’s Management and reports directly to the Interim Executive Director, who is responsible for performance evaluations.
Position Details
• Part-time position (5–8 hrs/week).
• Reports to UnChained’s Interim Executive Director.
• Works on-site at Monterey County Juvenile Hall.
Compensation & Support
This is a paid position; compensation will be aligned with licensure and experience. Includes supervision and team support.
How to Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter to:
📩 apply@livingunchained.org
Learn more at www.livingunchained.org
Applicants will be contacted within two weeks of submission for next steps.
