ASL Community Support Specialist - Deaf (Substitute)

Thresholds • Chicago, IL

11d • $22 - $26

About The Position

At Thresholds, we believe in meeting people where they’re at – in their community, on their journey to recovery, and in their own language. Thresholds was the first in the nation to offer comprehensive and integrated mental health services to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Community Support Specialists (CSS) within Thresholds’ Deaf Program provide mental health and substance use treatment support where it makes the most impact. The Thresholds Deaf Program is the first and only program of its kind in Illinois, offering comprehensive community-based services for persons with serious mental illnesses who are deaf or hard of hearing. Staffed by employees fluent in the use of American Sign Language (ASL) who understand the unique cultural needs of the Deaf community, the Thresholds Deaf Program provides a full range of specialized services. Working as a Community Support Specialist is a unique learning opportunity. Through care planning, you will be an integral part of a client’s growth and recovery. You will remove barriers to mental healthcare through case management: connecting our clients with resources and helping them navigate complex systems. You will help clients strengthen daily living skills as you drive them to doctors’ appointments, to benefits offices, or to the grocery store. Each day will be a little bit different, requiring you to adapt to your client’s schedule, needs, and treatment plan. The culture at Thresholds is collaborative and supportive, providing you with the tools and resources you need for the best client care. Opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision, will deepen your knowledge and expand your clinical skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. This invaluable experience will set you up for a variety of career paths and growth opportunities within our organization.

Requirements

• Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL)
• Passion for mental health advocacy and Deaf community
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills
• Good writing skills
• Strong time management and organization
• To be at least 21 years old
• A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car
• Willingness to provide transportation to clients
• Availability for substitute or on call
• High school diploma or GED certificate

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field preferred

Responsibilities

• Care planning
• Case management
• Connecting clients with resources
• Helping clients navigate complex systems
• Strengthening daily living skills
• Driving clients to appointments and errands

Benefits

• Competitive Pay - Base Rate: $21.75 - $25.87 hourly Commensurate with education, experience, and licensure
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to fostering an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency's mission.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees