Behavior Health Specialist

Woods Services•Middletown Township, PA

2d•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

As a Behavioral Health Specialist within a licensed psychiatric residential treatment facility for children and adolescents (PA 3800 regulations), the BHS is responsible for providing comprehensive treatment, care, and supervision for individuals with intellectual disabilities and complex behavioral and medical needs. The BHS is an integral member of the interdisciplinary treatment team who supports clinical services by applying evidence-based practices. These include positive reinforcement, life skills development, and communication strategies, which are used to address maladaptive behaviors and promote positive behavioral change. Key responsibilities include the implementation, monitoring, and documentation of individualized therapeutic strategies and programs aimed at enhancing client functioning and emotional well-being. Ensures the creation and maintenance of a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment that promotes growth, development, and recovery. Actively engages with clients to foster positive relationships, while also ensuring safety and compliance with all treatment protocols. Monitors and reports on client progress, including documenting daily observations, behavioral data, and any incidents that occur within the facility or community. Maintains clear communication with supervisory staff, peers, and other members of the treatment team, while upholding the standards and regulations of the facility, including all Woods Community Services, state, and federal policies. Demonstrates professionalism and a collaborative approach to ensure the delivery of high-quality care and support to clients in a residential setting.

Requirements

Must be 18 years of age and must be able to verbally communicate emergency information in English over the phone.
Must possess a current/valid Driver’s License, an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) as mandated by Woods’ insurance company, and successfully complete SMITH driver training.
Must maintain current CPR certification.
Must successfully complete and pass Office of Developmental Programs approved medication administration course within the first 30-days of employment and must maintain all renewal requirements.
Must successfully complete an in-house training program focusing on a variety of complex behavior intervention strategies, and must demonstrate the ability to transfer the skills learned in the client’s daily life.
Must be to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, be agile, physically pursue clients on foot, physically restrain, bend, squad, stretch, reach, push up and stand for several hours at a time.
Behavior Health Specialist 1: Proof of a High School diploma or GED required; and 3-5 years of experience in residential and/or behavioral health care with experience working with behaviorally challenged individuals including implementation of behavioral and therapeutic interventions and de-escalation.
Behavior Health Specialist 2: Associates Degree required; and at least 1 year experience in residential and/or behavioral health care with experience working with behaviorally challenged individuals including implementation of behavioral and therapeutic interventions and de-escalation.
Behavior Health Specialist 3: Bachelor’s degree in any field required; plus 1 year experience in residential and/or behavioral health care with experience working with behaviorally challenged individuals including implementation of behavioral and therapeutic interventions and de-escalation.
Behavior Health Specialist 4: Bachelor’s degree (issued in the US, or verified by an authorized accreditation agency) in Human Services field required; plus 1 year experience in residential and/or behavioral health care with experience working with behaviorally challenged individuals including implementation of behavioral and therapeutic interventions and de-escalation.

Responsibilities

Therapeutic Support & Behavioral Interventions: Actively engage in the therapeutic milieu by implementing, coordinating, participating, conducing/facilitating, and supporting the individual and groups in behaviorally-based interventions to enhance client outcomes. Assist in the development and execution of individualized treatment plans under the guidance of behavior therapists/clinicians. Constant and consistent interaction and engagement with individuals in programming.
Client Supervision & Safety: Ensure client safety and well-being through appropriate supervision, in alignment with each client’s Individual Service Plan (ISP) and treatment goals. Assist clients in daily living activities (e.g., dressing, hygiene, social interactions) to promote independence. Utilize de-escalation techniques, active listening skills, and provide a high frequency and variety of positive reinforcement.
Community Engagement & Life Skills Development: Facilitate community engagement and skill-building activities, including leisure, vocational pursuits, education, health and wellness, and life skills (e.g., banking, shopping, cooking, cleaning). Promote safety, wellness, and community awareness.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings, providing input on client progress, treatment goals, and strategies. Document relevant information regarding client well-being, family and community interactions, and any behavioral progress or setbacks. Assists in the development of Individualized Treatment Plans/Goals and strategies; communicates ideas and progress to team.
Training & Compliance: Complete mandatory training as required by 3800 regulations and maintain current certifications (e.g., CPR, First Aid, Fire Safety, Medication Administration). Ensure compliance with ODP Incident Management Bulletin for incident reporting and HCSIS submissions.
Crisis Management & Incident Reporting: Implement crisis stabilization procedures as directed, maintaining a safe environment. Report incidents promptly, prepare incident reports, and communicate essential information during emergencies.
Transportation & Community Supervision: Transport residents for therapeutic leave, to appointments, activities, and outings, ensuring proper supervision during community outings or day programs.
Data Collection & Reporting: Monitor client behaviors, collect data on skills acquisition, and complete reports and progress notes as assigned. Input data into Carelogic and assist in program assessments to maintain consistency and program integrity.
Collaboration & Communication: Establish and maintain effective communication with clients, families, and external stakeholders (e.g., law enforcement, EMS, fire department) to foster positive community interactions. Uphold client confidentiality at all times.