Community Support Specialist - Social Services

The Community Support Specialist is responsible for coordinating and providing care that is safe, timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and youth and family centered.  Services are primarily community-based, with/for individuals who have mental health treatment needs and are in need of support in addition to outpatient therapy services.  The Community Support Specialist handles new referrals, creates service plans, reviews progress and makes determinations about closure and transitions to lower levels of care.    The Community Support Specialist coordinates the flow of clinical information across agencies and providers while protecting the confidentiality of individuals served.  The Community Support Specialist builds partnerships with enrolled individuals with the goal of helping them achieve wellness and autonomy. The incumbent will support and uphold a commitment to racial and ethnic equity and antiracism.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Can articulate the mission, vision and values of Choices, and supportive services compliant with Medicaid regulations for enrolled individuals.   
• Supports participating youth and family members by coordinating and providing care to increase or restore capacity for self-sufficiency.

• Supports families in exercising their Freedom of Choice regarding their providers and supports and empowers them to take the lead in all decisions regarding their care.
• Maintains a flexible, non-traditional schedule including situational evenings and weekends in order to provide services to families based upon their availability.

• Communicates timely with the Clinical Supervisor, Care Coordinator, and other members of the clinical team to coordinate services to youth and families.
• Willingly completes other duties as assigned to advance the mission of Choices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related human service field required.
• At least two years of full-time experience providing direct mental health counseling and/or case management services preferred.
• Eligible for certification through MS DMH as a Community Support Specialist
• Demonstrated skills in case management, crisis intervention, teamwork and collaborative plan development.
• Strong communication and writing skills. Bi-lingual skills (Spanish) a plus.
• Highly organized, and effectively manages multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Professionally articulate in communicating (oral and written) system development, change and outcomes.
• Demonstrated professionalism working in teams with internal colleagues and external audiences both in person and through various electronic media.
• Enthusiastic about advancing system change within the community.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license in state of residence and auto insurance.

Hourly Rate: $17.31 ($36,000 annually)

Benefits Include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Employer Paid Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability
• 401k Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Generous PTO plan
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Salary : $36,000