Program Director

Position Overview:

As the Ridge Program Director, you are a compassionate, detail-oriented leader who is skilled in both client care and the administrative and operational functions necessary to maintain a well-run residential treatment facility. The Program Director works in close coordination with the Clinical, Medical, and Operations directors to ensure holistic care. This position supervises direct care staff and educational coordinators to maintain a structured and supportive environment aligned with therapeutic goals. 

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Management:

• Ensure that programming supports the therapeutic goals of the clinical team and is tailored to the needs of adolescents with mental health challenges.
• Work with Program Manager and Direct Care Staff to develop engaging activities that foster social skills, emotional regulation, and physical well-being.
• Ensure a structured and consistent daily schedule that balances therapy, recreation, education and downtime in a way that promotes client stability and growth.

Residential Programming Oversight:

• Supervise Program Managers and direct care staff to ensure that the residential environment is safe, structured, and nurturing.
• Supervise Education Manager and Educational coordinators to ensure that academic programming is aligned with individual treatment goals and program structure.
• Maintain a predictable daily structure (schedules, transitions, meals, school, groups, recreation, evening routines) consistent across pods and programs
• Develop dorm routines and programming focused on life skills, peer relationships, and conflict resolution.
• Support direct care staff in implementing behavior management strategies and maintaining a structured environment

Team Management and Supervision:

• Conduct regular supervision, performance evaluations, and professional development for all supervised staff.
• Address staffing needs, including scheduling, training, and conflict resolution, in collaboration with Human Resources Department and Program Managers.
• Oversee the hiring and onboarding of Clinical Assistants, ensuring they receive appropriate training on Ridge's therapeutic model, safety procedures, and program structure.
• Ensure that all staff are trained in trauma-informed care, behavior management, and crisis intervention techniques.

Crisis Management:

• Act as tier 3 for escalated situations and client crises, utilizing de-escalation techniques and coordinating with clinical and emergency services as needed.
• Provide crisis management training and support to staff, ensuring they are prepared to handle challenging situations safely and effectively.
• Maintain detailed documentation of incidents and ensure they are reviewed and addressed according to policy.

Collaboration with Clinical, Medical, and Operations Teams:

• Maintain close collaboration with the Clinical Director to ensure that all programming supports clients’ therapeutic goals.
• Work with the Director of Nursing to ensure that programming accommodates any medical needs or restrictions clients may have.
• Coordinate with the Operations Director to ensure that all facilities, materials, and resources needed for programming are available and maintained.

Educational and Recreational Programming:

• Ensure that educational staff have the resources needed to support students with varying levels of academic achievement and emotional/behavioral challenges.
• Supervise experiential and recreational staff in the design and execution of therapeutic recreational activities, such as outdoor excursions, art programs, sports, and team-building exercises.

Coordination with Admissions, Intake, and Discharge:

• Collaborate with the Admissions Team and Intake/Discharge Coordinators to facilitate entry and exit process for clients.
• Ensure programming, residential life, and educational teams are prepared to support each new client’s transition into the program.
• Participate in intake and discharge meetings, providing information on program expectations, dorm assignments, and initial support strategies.

Family and Community Engagement: 

• Serve as a point of contact for families regarding non-clinical programming, such as education, recreation, and residential life.
• Maintain positive relationships with community partners and external agencies to support programmatic initiatives and client needs.

Regulatory Compliance & Policy Adherence: 

• Ensure all programming, staff operations, and residential life services comply with state and federal regulations for adolescent residential treatment facilities.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of licensing requirements and accreditation standards, ensuring all aspects of programming meet or exceed expectations.
• Conduct regular audits of program operations and documentation to maintain compliance and address any deficiencies proactively.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, healthcare administration, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a residential or therapeutic setting, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Leadership skills that foster a culture of inclusivity and excellence.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Strong crisis management and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to go up and down stairs to monitor clients on multiple floors and physical capacity to assist people with mobility impairments as needed.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CPR, First Aid, and crisis prevention/intervention certification.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
• Experience in program development, team training, and facilities management.