RESPONSIBILITIESProviding mental health services to children and families is an integral component of the Head Start program
It includes meeting Head Start Performance Standards
The Mental Health Specialist observes children in classrooms, assesses children with social-emotional and behavioral concerns, meets with families to address the needs of their children and supports teaching staff to meet the needs of the children
The Mental Health Specialist conducts parent trainings and workshops in addition to attending policy council meetings
Assess children's achievement of developmental milestones
Conduct individual sessions and family meetings to help them support their child's emotional needs
Support teaching staff and strategize with staff to ensure positive learning environment for all children
Provide assessment based on observation and referrals from Head Start staff
Administer the Ages and Stages Social-Emotional Questionnaire
Administer a Trauma History Screening for every child
Identify any child in need of an evaluation for special services through the Committee for Special Education (CPSE)
Help families navigate the school district in order to request an evaluation for special services
Work closely with Disabilities Coordinator when working with a child in need or receiving special services in order to plan integrated services
Engage all staff and children in the Second-Step curriculum
Facilitate referrals for parents and children to community resources when needed
Participate in monthly Mental Health Meetings
Co-lead evidenced based Positive Solutions for Families parenting trainings with Family Advocate
Document all observations, assessments and meetings in COPA
Communicate with the Disabilities Coordinator regarding any child in need of special services through CPSE
Communicate with parents during family meetings, trainings, workshops and CPSE meetings
Communicate to parents in monthly Mental Health newsletter
Attend supervision with Mental Health Manager
Communicate in a culturally sensitive manner within FSW's philosophy and mission and Head Start/Early Head Start guidelines
Plan and conduct Parent Workshops
Plans and implements staff training
Plans monthly Staff Wellness ActivitiesCOMPLIANCE MANAGEMENTMaintains children, parents and staff confidentiality at all times
Completes all documentation and filing in a timely manner
Maintains compliance with Head Start Performance Standards
Requires adherence to OCFS/HS/EHS Standards
Work is generally performed in a classroom setting or in an office requiring face-to-face interaction
Travel by car, bus, airplane or train may also be required with attendance at conferences, meetings and other duties carried out at distant locations in and out of state and in some cases where some overnight travel may be requiredQUALIFICATIONSMHC, MSW,LMSW, LMHC, License in Professional Counseling or Certified MHC.Excellent organization and interpersonal skills
.Strong interpersonal skills including excellent active listening and clear oral communication skills
.Highly organized, self-directed and able to multi-task
.Effective in problem solving
.Able to engage effectively with children and families
.Knowledge of mental health, human development and community health practices
.Able to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team
.Culturally competent/sensitive (racial, ethnic, linguistic, LGBTQ+, physical ability, etc
.Strong writing skills
.3 years + experience working in mental health and/or social services
.Experience working with children
.Local travel in the middle of the day to other sites may be requiredSEE FULL DESCRIPTION ON COMPANY WEBSITE http://www.fsw.org - CAREERS
