MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST

Responsibilities

• Ensure the provision of compassionate, culturally sensitive services.
• Ensure all house or unit residents are present and on time for all clinical activities.
• Create a culture of care which discourages the use of protective holds and escorts.
• Create a living environment which residents evaluate positively.
• Implement with fidelity all personalized interventions indicated in each resident’s Active Treatment Plan.
• Maintain the structure, cleanliness and organization of the house or unit.
• Interact positively with residents, their family members, fellow staff members and all other stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Must have empathy for others and practice the Golden Rule in relationships with residents and their families, with fellow staff member and with others.
• Must be an eager learner and willing to try new methods.
• Must have a fundamental love for children and a desire to be an agent for change in their lives.
• Must be actively pursuing a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in a mental health-related field (including, but not limited to sociology, criminal justice, nursing, marriage and family counseling, rehabilitation counseling, psychological counseling and other professional counseling); or Have earned a Bachelor’s degree and is a student pursuing a graduate degree in a mental health-related field and have completed at least two courses in that identified field; or Have a high school degree or a GED and have two years experience providing direct services in a mental health, physical health, social services, educational or correctional setting.
• Must possess a strong sense of personal authority, maturity and integrity for a positive, influential role with children.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, in a diverse range of audiences and settings.
• Must be skilled in conflict resolution and mediation.
• Must have strong verbal and social skills for use with residents and staff.
• Must be committed to the protection of confidential information, records and reports.
• Must have a strong work ethic and be willing to commit to significant job responsibilities.
• Must be flexible in ability to function in demanding position.