Mental Health/Disabilities Specialist

Child Start, Inc. is currently seeking a Mental Health/Disability Specialist to join our team. As a Mental Health/Disability Specialist, you will collaborate with classroom staff in identifying children in need of individualized developmental and behavioral services. You will recommend and demonstrate strategies to help children adapt and succeed in the classroom and at home. Additionally, you will refer children for additional evaluation by partner agencies for Part B and Part C services and mental health consultation. You will document and track screenings, individualized services, and referrals in our child-tracking software.

In this role, you will provide direct support to children and families as needed through Program Intervention Plans. You will also work with our Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator to recommend referrals to partner agencies and provide assistance with Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree (B.S./B.A.) in early childhood education, social work, or related degree. If education does not include at least 9 hours of Early Childhood coursework, must commit to obtaining that additional education.
• An Associate’s Degree will be considered with five years of relevant experience and an educational plan to attain a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field.
• Requires 3 years experience in either Early Childhood Education or in the field of childhood Mental Health and Disabilities working with children with IEPs/IFSPs, or Behavioral Plans.
• Ability to build rapport with children, families and staff and to work effectively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural differences.
• Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful and sensitive situations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Ability to prioritize workload while being flexible to emergent/unplanned needs and situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to maintain regular on-time attendance.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs.