Pros
Coworkers are very hardworking and supportive. Competent, compassionate supervisors. There is an opportunity to provide great services for inmates if they can ever get fully staffed. Retirement.
Cons
Long, difficult hours and no overtime. Frequently verbally abused and threatened by inmates. Not enough staff to provide services to inmates ready to work on issues and make change. Expected to meet face to face with all inmates including those with active Covid. Pay cap after so many years does not reward longevity. Expected to work hourly but paid as a salaried position so no overtime and no additional pay for working holidays. Expected to meet face to face with inmates who are very ill and unpredictable in areas where there are no divided rooms. Often there is no deputy in sight. Expected to be locked in a classroom alone across the unit with up to 15 inmates to conduct groups with a radio that may or may not get reception in that area. There are a lot of great people working in the department but they can't keep counselors if they don't fix the many issues and more that have been noted.