Behavioral Health Specialist (Contract Position)

Description

This contract position will deliver counseling, advocacy, and linkage services for children and families residing at Melissa’s Place Housing Resource Center and who are experiencing mental health challenges that may affect daily functioning and housing stability. The role also supports children facing adjustment, behavioral, emotional, social, and academic difficulties while in shelter. Services are provided in alignment with Gulfstream Goodwill Industries’ initiative to promote independence for individuals with disabilities and other barriers and are carried out within established policies and professional standards.

Requirements

· The Behavioral Health Specialist shall provide professional behavioral health services to individuals and families residing at Melissa’s Place Shelter, with a focus on clinical interventions, stability, and housing retention.

· Conduct behavioral health assessments and psychosocial screenings.

· Develop individualized, person-centered service plans.

· Deliver short-term counseling, crisis intervention, and psychoeducation.

· Provide clinical support for families with behavioral, social, emotional, and academic challenges.

· Advocate for families and link them to mental health, psychiatric, and community-based services.

· Coordinate with school personnel, shelter staff, case managers, and external partners to support mental well-being and educational stability for children.

· Deliver key performance indicators as it related to grant funding

· Provide trauma-informed clinical support, including individual and family counseling.

· Participate in school meetings and advocate for children's educational needs.

· Assist families in developing natural support systems and increasing self-sufficiency.

· Refer guests to appropriate behavioral health, psychiatric services, and social services.

· Document all services provided in agency databases (Client Track) within 72 hours.

· Attend multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.

· Maintain compliance with HIPAA and all applicable confidentiality and licensure regulations.

· Submit monthly service summaries to the assigned Director

· Maintain timely and complete case notes and client documentation.

· Ensure all services, documentation, and reporting adhere to the guidelines and compliance standards of PBSO Law Enforcement Trust Fund (LETF), State of Florida appropriations, and all applicable public or private grant funding.

Qualifications:

· Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, or a related field preferred.

· Valid Florida licensure as LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, or equivalent (if applicable).

· At least one year of experience providing behavioral health services or case management, preferably with families or homeless populations.

· Knowledge of trauma-informed care, mental health, and substance use issues.

· Strong organizational and communication skills.

· Proficiency in documentation and Microsoft Office.

· Reliable transportation and ability to conduct home and school visits.