Counsellor Onboarding Process
Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Counsellor starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Therapy onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Counsellor, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Counsellor onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
Counsellor Onboarding Checklist
1. Orientation: The new counsellor should receive a comprehensive orientation to the company, including an introduction to the organization’s mission, values, and culture. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated orientation coordinator.
2. Introduction to Policies and Procedures: The new counsellor should be familiarized with the company’s policies and procedures, such as confidentiality guidelines, code of ethics, and documentation requirements. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a senior counsellor.
3. Training on Therapy Techniques: The new counsellor should receive training on therapy techniques specific to the company’s approach or specialization. This may involve attending workshops, shadowing experienced therapists, or participating in online training programs. Senior therapists or trainers within the company typically perform this task.
4. Familiarization with Client Management Systems: The new counsellor should be trained on the company’s client management systems, including how to schedule appointments, document client progress, and maintain accurate records. This task is usually performed by the IT department or a designated system administrator.
5. Introduction to Supervision and Case Consultation: The new counsellor should be introduced to the company’s supervision and case consultation processes. This may involve meeting with a supervisor or participating in group supervision sessions to discuss client cases, receive feedback, and enhance professional development. Senior therapists or supervisors perform this task.
6. Review of Ethical Guidelines: The new counsellor should review and understand the ethical guidelines relevant to their profession, such as those provided by professional associations or licensing boards. This task can be performed independently by the new counsellor, with guidance from senior therapists or supervisors.
7. Introduction to Referral Networks: The new counsellor should be introduced to the company’s referral networks, including other professionals or organizations that may collaborate in providing comprehensive care to clients. This task is typically performed by the company’s management or senior therapists.
8. Familiarization with Administrative Processes: The new counsellor should become familiar with administrative processes, such as billing procedures, insurance claims, and client intake forms. This task is usually performed by the administrative staff or a designated administrative coordinator.
9. Introduction to Team Members: The new counsellor should be introduced to their colleagues and other team members within the company. This may involve attending team meetings, social events, or one-on-one introductions. The HR department or a designated team leader typically performs this task.
10. Review of Safety and Emergency Procedures: The new counsellor should review safety and emergency procedures, including protocols for handling crisis situations or potential risks to clients or staff. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a designated safety coordinator.
11. Introduction to Professional Development Opportunities: The new counsellor should be informed about professional development opportunities offered by the company, such as conferences, workshops, or continuing education programs. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated professional development coordinator.
12. Review of Documentation and Reporting Requirements: The new counsellor should review the company’s documentation and reporting requirements, including how to maintain accurate and confidential client records, complete progress notes, and submit reports as necessary. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a designated documentation coordinator.
13. Introduction to Company Resources: The new counsellor should be introduced to the various resources available within the company, such as library materials, research databases, or online tools that can support their professional practice. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated resource coordinator.
14. Familiarization with Company Policies on Self-Care: The new counsellor should become familiar with the company’s policies and practices related to self-care, stress management, and maintaining personal well-being. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a designated wellness coordinator.
15. Introduction to Marketing and Business Development: The new counsellor should receive an introduction to the company’s marketing and business development strategies, including how to promote their services, attract clients, and contribute to the growth of the company. This task is typically performed by the marketing department or a designated business development coordinator
Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process
From reading through the items in the example Counsellor checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Counsellor up to speed and working well in your Therapy team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.