Residential Counselor Core Training
N.H. Residential Counselor Core Training (RCCT) is offered to residential counselors, in preparation for their work with children and youth in care in any of New Hampshire's residential facilities.
A 30-hour competency based training series; it consists of five modules, each six hours in length. The program provides generalized training that addresses the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities essential to the position of residential counselor. Participants are introduced to the spectrum of out-of-home care options, the basic principles of child growth and development and abuse and neglect, cultural competence in working with children and families, and the variety of roles and responsibilities they may assume as counselors. The intent of the training program is to ensure that participants receive peer support and high quality, transferable training that addresses the universal knowledge and skills applicable to the position of residential counselor, regardless of the facility in which they are employed.
The modules are:
Abuse and Neglect of Children and Adolescents
This course differentiates the major types of child abuse and describes the factors that contribute to the abuse of children. The residential counselor's role and responsibilities as a mandated reporter is explained as well as the importance of knowing the agency's process for reporting and investigating allegations. Physical, emotional and behavioral indicators of abuse are examined including the impact of child abuse on the child, family, and community. Strategies to manage challenging behaviors and options for appropriate psychological treatment are addressed.
Development and Child Trauma
This course compares the child growth stages of infancy, toddler, preschool, school age, and adolescence. Development milestones and tasks associated with these stages are described. Discussion will focus on the obstacles children and youth who have been abused or neglected are challenged with, as well as the developmental obstacles they face while in placement. Participants apply theoretical knowledge of child development and problem solving skills to case scenarios.
Serving Children and Families
This course introduces Residential Counselors to their role in the helping system, including that of teacher and mentor for the biological family of youth in their care. It explores ways to identify strengths and challenges within a family through an empathic approach to services, while being sensitive to cultural backgrounds. Participants examine the implications of a range of issues that may have lead a child into out-of-home placement. This course focuses on how to interpret a youth's behavior in the context of past experiences, and how to develop intervention skills based on guidelines for the Residential Counselor's professional role.
Staff Roles and Responsibilities
This course provides residential counselors with an understanding of their multifaceted role in the care and well being of children in residential facilities. Emphasis is placed on daily routines and structure as key elements in creating healthy and safe environments in which children may thrive. Finding a balance between the individual child's needs and those of the group is explored. Residential Counselors unique interpersonal skills and the potential implications of their effects on children and families are discussed. Establishing social boundaries, maintaining confidentiality, and upholding ethical standards are presented as major responsibilities.
Out of Home Placement Options
This course provides learners with an overview of the placement process and placement options for children in NH who are living outside of their homes due to abuse/neglect, special educational needs, Children in Need of Services (CHINS) or delinquency. Learners explore the roles of different systems of placement, including: Division of Children, Youth and Families, Division of Juvenile Justice Services, Department of Education and CHINS. The course describes the variety of supportive services available to children and families. Participants are taught to assess program characteristics and client needs, enhancing case management skills.
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