Youth and Milieu Stabilization Specialist

Who We Are Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and communities impacted by trauma. Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community. Our Therapeutic Day School serves CPS-referred youth ages 5-22 with emotional, intellectual, and learning challenges. Through personalized, IEP-driven instruction and therapeutic supports, we help students build academic, social-emotional, and life skills that prepare them for long-term educational and personal success.

About the role

As a Youth and Milieu Stabilization Specialist, you will help create a safe, healing, and restorative environment for youth in both our Therapeutic Day School (TDS) and Child & Family Treatment Center (CFTC). This role supports classroom and residential teams by responding to crisis situations, coaching staff in trauma-informed interventions, and helping youth safely return to baseline following emotional or behavioral escalations. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is calm under pressure, skilled at relationship-building, and passionate about helping youth develop resilience through restorative and trauma-informed practices.

Responsibilities

• Respond to youth crises and provide immediate stabilization support to help youth safely return to baseline functioning.
• Partner with school and residential teams to create a therapeutic, healing-centered environment that promotes safety, growth, and engagement.
• Coach and model trauma-informed de-escalation techniques, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) practices, and restorative approaches for staff.
• Support implementation of student IEPs, treatment plans, and interdisciplinary care strategies while participating in treatment team meetings.
• Complete documentation, review incident reports, facilitate debriefings, and support quality improvement initiatives.
• Assist with program operations, including transportation, ratio coverage, and community-based activities as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred and a minimum of two years of experience working with youth in a therapeutic day school, residential treatment, or similar setting; OR High School Diploma/GED and at least three years of relevant experience.
• Current Illinois State Board of Education