Mental Health/Disability Specialist

About This Role

Collaborate with classroom staff to identify children needing developmental and behavioral services, recommend strategies for success, and facilitate referrals to partner agencies. This role supports children, families, and staff in promoting positive mental health and addressing disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with classroom staff in identifying children in need of individualized developmental and behavioral services
• Recommend and demonstrate strategies to help children adapt and succeed in the classroom and at home
• Refer children for additional evaluation by partner agencies for Part B and Part C services and mental health consultation
• Document and track screenings, individualized services, and referrals in child-tracking software
• Provide direct support to children and families through Program Intervention Plans
• Work with Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator to recommend referrals to partner agencies
• Assist with Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP)
• Observe children in classrooms and home settings and attend Multidisciplinary Case Reviews
• Support classroom staff in identifying and implementing IEP/IFSP recommendations
• Monitor required developmental and behavioral screenings and train staff in using screening tools

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (B.S./B.A.) in early childhood education, social work, or related degree (or Associate's with 5 years experience and plan for Bachelor's)
• 3 years experience in Early Childhood Education or childhood Mental Health and Disabilities working with children with IEPs/IFSPs, or Behavioral Plans
• Ability to build rapport with children, families and staff
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural differences
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Computer literacy

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree (B.S./B.A.) in early childhood education, social work, or related degree
• 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

Nice to Have

• At least 9 hours of Early Childhood coursework (if Bachelor's degree is not in early childhood)

Benefits