Youth Care Specialist
About the role
Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Cleveland Youth Academy in Cleveland, Tennessee is a 15-bed Youth Academy providing trauma-informed residential care for girls ages 12 to 17. Serving young women in need of intensive mental health services, the center combines clinical therapy, recreation, art, music, and educational support in a structured, supportive environment. Youth typically remain in care for 3 to 6 months, participating in individual, family, and group therapy, life skills training, victim-impact awareness, restorative justice programming, and pre-vocational preparation. Programming is delivered 24/7 in small group living units to support emotional stabilization, family engagement, and successful transition back into the community.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and monitor youth activities, safety, and well-being
- Facilitate group meetings and support conflict resolution
- Implement behavior management systems and de-escalation techniques
- Aid with schoolwork, activities, and treatment goals
- Document daily progress, incidents, and observations
- Communicate with treatment teams about youth progress
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to pass background checks
- Two years of college coursework or experience working with youth
- CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention certification (or willingness to obtain)