What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Health Services Specialist for School Year position at Watauga County Schools?
FUNCTIONAL PURPOSE
The purpose of this position is to serve as a consultant and team member with schools, district, and the community in the integration of services, procedures, and protocols to support children with mental health needs and their families. This position coordinates mental health services and prevention efforts; and provides direct therapeutic services for identified students with mental health challenges, chronic stress, and trauma.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
- Establish and evaluate goals, priorities, processes, and systems in the delivery of mental health services in district schools.
- Coordinate, support, and oversee school-based mental health (SBMH) in schools by establishing and maintaining an on-going system of communication with school personnel and parents to enhance success.
- Consultation with high school Student Services staff in the provision of services to students.
- Consultation with Appalachian State University social work students and staff who provide services through the Social Work Care Collaborative (SWCC).
- Work collaboratively with principals, Student Services staff, and School-Based Therapy providers on the implementation of services at K-8 school sites.
- Provide liaison with Appalachian State University faculty on the recruitment, training, and clinical supervision of graduate social work, marriage & family, and psychology students who will provide therapeutic & case management services in district schools.
- Ensure the implementation of required policies and procedures that affect students in need of intervention support.
- Assist in the collection and analysis of data needed for planning, reporting, securing services, and making decisions.
- Provide individual and / or group therapeutic services to address the mental health needs of students.
- Provide specialized support to schools and communities on mental health services, interventions, referrals, programming, and concerns.
- Work collaboratively with the Student Services Director on the dissemination of best practices regarding behavioral and mental health supports.
- Collaborate with administrators of departments, programs, and initiatives, regarding services to meet the needs of all learners.
- Provide relevant and ongoing professional development to district staff.
- Provide recommendations, strategies and community resources to staff and families.
- Serve as a representative on school-based and district teams when students are being considered for separate placements with mental health supports.
- Serve as a liaison to community agencies and other agencies providing mental health supports and coordinate collaborative activities for mental health awareness.
- Support students, families, and schools by coordinating with external agencies, community, and support services, etc.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by the Student Services Director.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES :
Job Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS :
CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS :
Ten (10) month position with full benefits.
