Family Counselor Onboarding Checklist

Family Counselor Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Family Counselor 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 Family Counselor, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Family Counselor onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Family Counselor Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new family counselor attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s mission, values, policies, and procedures. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

2. Introduction to the Team: The new family counselor is introduced to their colleagues and key team members. This allows them to establish relationships, understand the team dynamics, and foster a sense of belonging. The task is usually performed by the team leader or supervisor.

3. Review of Case Files: The new family counselor reviews existing case files to gain insights into the clients they will be working with. This includes studying client histories, treatment plans, and progress notes. The task is typically performed by the outgoing counselor or a designated staff member responsible for case file management.

4. Training on Therapy Techniques: The new family counselor undergoes training sessions to learn and enhance their therapy techniques. This may include workshops, seminars, or online courses on various therapeutic approaches and interventions. The task is usually performed by experienced therapists or external trainers.

5. Familiarization with Documentation: The new family counselor becomes familiar with the documentation requirements of the company, such as progress notes, treatment plans, and consent forms. They learn how to accurately and ethically document their sessions. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated supervisor.

6. Introduction to Electronic Health Records (EHR) System: The new family counselor receives training on the company’s electronic health records system, learning how to input client information, update records, and access relevant documents. This task is usually performed by the IT department or a designated EHR administrator.

7. Shadowing Experienced Counselors: The new family counselor shadows experienced counselors during therapy sessions to observe their techniques, communication skills, and overall approach. This provides an opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and gain practical insights. This task is typically coordinated by the clinical director or a designated mentor.

8. Review of Ethical Guidelines: The new family counselor reviews the ethical guidelines and professional standards relevant to their occupation, such as those provided by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). This ensures adherence to ethical principles and best practices. The task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated ethics committee.

9. Introduction to Company Policies: The new family counselor becomes familiar with the company’s policies, including confidentiality, boundaries, code of conduct, and client rights. This ensures compliance with organizational rules and regulations. The task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated policy coordinator.

10. Introduction to Supervision and Consultation: The new family counselor learns about the supervision and consultation process within the company. They understand how to seek guidance, discuss cases, and receive feedback from supervisors or senior clinicians. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated supervisor.

11. Introduction to Referral Networks: The new family counselor is introduced to the company’s referral networks, such as other therapists, psychiatrists, or community resources. They learn how to collaborate and make appropriate referrals when necessary. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated referral coordinator.

12. Review of Administrative Tasks: The new family counselor reviews administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, managing client records, and billing procedures. They become familiar with the company’s administrative systems and software. This task is typically performed by the administrative staff or a designated administrative coordinator.

13. Introduction to Crisis Management: The new family counselor receives training on crisis management protocols, including how to handle emergencies, suicidal ideation, or situations requiring immediate intervention. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated crisis management team.

14. Introduction to Cultural Competence: The new family counselor undergoes training on cultural competence, learning how to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds and respect their cultural values. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated diversity and inclusion coordinator.

15. Introduction to Continuing Education Opportunities: The new family counselor is informed about the company’s support for continuing education, such as conferences, workshops, or webinars. They learn how to stay updated with the latest research and therapeutic approaches. This task is typically performed by the clinical director or a designated professional development coordinator

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Family Counselor checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Family Counselor 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.