Community Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary : The Community Support Specialist (CSS) at Healing House, Inc. plays a vital role in providing individualized, trauma-informed, recovery-focused services to participants with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health needs. The CSS is responsible for delivering direct clinical care, conducting assessments, coordinating treatment planning, facilitating groups, and linking participants to community resources. This position ensures all documentation and service delivery complies with DMH, CARF, and Healing House standards, promoting stability, empowerment, and long-term recovery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

Documentation

Complete all documentation (progress notes, treatment plans, assessments, discharge summaries) within required timeframes.

Maintain accurate, complete, and timely documentation that aligns with DMH, CARF, and Healing House Inc. standards.

Ensure all documentation reflects the CSS’s scope of practice, referring when necessary.

Direct Clinical Care

Conduct and document comprehensive community support assessments, considering diversity and cultural factors.

Develop, implement, and review treatment plans with input from the participants and relevant parties.

Facilitate psychoeducational groups using trauma-informed approaches and understanding of group dynamics.

Provide one-on-one case management tailored to each participant’s needs, offering referrals and advocacy.

Deliver ethical and timely crisis interventions, including mandated reporting and duty-to-warn procedures.

Assist with discharge planning that prioritizes safety, community linkage, and continuity of care.

Community Engagement & Resource Linkage

Collaborate with referral sources and community agencies to ensure wraparound services.

Support participants in building skills for self-advocacy and accessing community support systems.

Maintain participant confidentiality and HIPAA compliance in all communications and interactions.

Customer Service & Organizational Support

Provide compassionate, respectful, and mission-aligned services to all participants and stakeholders.

Maintain professional and ethical conduct in all communications and relationships.

Report any issues that may impact participant care or Healing House’s mission to appropriate leadership.

Professional Responsibility

Complete all required agencies, state, federal, and licensure / certification trainings.

Meet productivity standards as established by Healing House Inc.

Ensure responsible use of agency equipment and timely submission of reports (e.g., mileage).

Represent and uphold the values and mission of Healing House Inc. in all aspects of work.

Qualifications :

Education : Bachelor’s degree in human services Field such as social work, psychology, education preferred.

Experience : Possess two or more years of relevant experience.

Certification : CPS, MRSS preferred

Proficiency : Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing Google Suite.

Preferred Knowledge : Familiarity with HER systems is highly desirable.

Skills :

Active Listening : Ability to attentively listen to individuals and understand their perspectives and needs without judgment.

Peer Support : Provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to peers based on personal lived experiences.

Communication : Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information and engage in productive conversations with individuals and teams.

Empowerment : Promote a sense of empowerment and self-determination in individuals, encouraging them to take charge of their own recovery journey.

Problem-Solving : Assist individuals in developing problem-solving skills and finding effective solutions to challenges they may encounter.

Cultural Competence : Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and understanding to effectively engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.

Confidentiality : Adhere to strict confidentiality standards and maintain the privacy of individuals' personal information.

Documentation : Accurately and efficiently document relevant information, progress notes, and other required documentation using prescribed formats and guidelines.

Crisis Intervention : Possess the ability to provide support and intervene appropriately during crisis situations, both in-person and over the phone.

Teamwork : Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and professionals to ensure comprehensive care and support for individuals.

Organization and Time Management : Efficiently manage time, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized records to ensure smooth operations and meet deadlines.

Adaptability : Quickly adapt to changing situations, needs, and priorities in a dynamic work environment.

Computer Literacy : Proficiently utilize computer applications, including Google Suite or similar software, for documentation and communication purposes.

Self-Care : Practice self-care strategies and maintain personal wellness to sustain emotional well-being while providing support to others.

Physical Demands

Physical Stamina : The role may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and being actively engaged with patients and employees during work and employee interactions.

Lifting and Carrying : There may be occasional requirements to lift or carry lightweight equipment or materials, such as tools or paperwork.

Manual Dexterity : The position may involve tasks that require the use of hands and fingers, such as typing, writing, and handling materials.

Visual and Auditory Acuity : The may need to closely observe patients and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal cues during calls or interviews

Mobility : The role may involve the ability to move freely within the facility to conduct interviews, attend meetings, and other office duties.

Sensory Abilities : This position may require the ability to perceive and respond to environmental and situational factors that are relevant to patient interactions.