High stress, low pay - Residential Counselor DESC Employee Review

1.0
Apr 17, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good introductory experience to the field of social work/working with vulnerable populations. Excellent mental health benefits and PTO accrual (but don't expect to be able to use them at holidays).

Cons

Very high stress. The entire premise of housing first means that people are openly doing drugs, drinking, and engaging in prostitution in the buildings. Violent behavior, conflict, and overdoses are common, and DESC locations are can end up calling 911 multiple times in a shift. After a year of calling the police constantly for the same people doing the same behavior with no consequence, it can become mentally taxing. Unless you're doing day shift (7:30 - 4), the hours are pretty isolating.

Explore other reviews about DESC

5.0
Sep 12, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Best work-life balance. equal opportunity. Opportunity to move to other positions. Amazing pay and employee benefits

Cons

No cons for the company

1.0
May 20, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Pay and benefits are great, a lot of pto.

Cons

Not a great company for POC in leadership roles. You will also receive very little support from higher ups, and must manage heavy emotionally taxing days with KPIS.

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