Behavioral Health Specialist - Shelter Based (FT and PT Opportunities Available)

Mental Health America of South Central Kansas•Eastborough, KS

just now•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Specialist (BHS) is responsible for maintaining a safe, structured, and welcoming shelter-based environment that supports resident stability, dignity, and recovery. This role utilizes a Housing First, trauma-informed, and harm reduction approach to engage residents in goal-oriented activities, build independent living skills, and promote mental health and overall well-being. The BHS plays a key role in shaping the daily resident experience, ensuring interactions are respectful, responsive, and supportive while maintaining clear expectations and boundaries within a shelter-based setting.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Proficiency in basic computer systems and software programs including electronic health record systems.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions
Strong service delivery, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced environment
Driver Level: Level 2, valid driver's license and MVR may be required

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in relevant role preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support to residents in a shelter-based environment, ensuring safety, structure, and consistency
Deliver services using a Housing First, trauma-informed, and harm reduction approach to support independent living, recovery, and stability
Assist with daily shelter operations, including intake/orientation, meal support, house routines, and maintaining a clean and sanitary environment
Support residents with skill-building, medication management, and access to appointments and resources
Collaborate and communicate with stakeholders to support continuity of care
Participate in shift hand-offs and team meetings to ensure consistent communication and service delivery
Coordinate services and share relevant updates to support each resident’s goals and program expectations
Observe and assess resident behavior, progress, and safety within the shelter-based environment
Respond to changing needs through de-escalation, problem-solving, and crisis intervention as needed
Report incidents and communicate concerns to supervisors and team members in a timely manner
Build respectful, professional relationships using a person-centered, trauma-informed approach
Encourage participation in services, routines, and goal-oriented activities
Promote a welcoming, supportive environment that fosters dignity, independence, and positive engagement
Complete accurate, timely documentation in accordance with agency, regulatory, and contract requirements
Maintain required logs, reports, and communication records
Complete required trainings and adhere to all policies, procedures, and safety standards
Demonstrates clear, respectful, and professional communication in both verbal and written interactions, with a focus on collaboration and solution-oriented dialogue.
Shares information responsibly and addresses concerns constructively while maintaining a positive, professional demeanor—even in challenging situations.
Effectively manages workload by prioritizing tasks, planning proactively, and addressing challenges to meet deadlines and responsibilities.
Maintains a solution-focused approach and professional composure while balancing competing priorities.
Demonstrates dependability by consistently meeting commitments, deadlines, and responsibilities while taking ownership of work and outcomes.
Acts with integrity, follows through on obligations, and addresses mistakes proactively to support a culture of accountability and trust.
Demonstrates adaptability by embracing new processes, priorities, and organizational changes with resilience and a willingness to learn.
Adjusts work approaches as needed and supports others through change with a constructive, solution-focused mindset.
Demonstrates behaviors aligned with the organization’s mission, values, and professional standards while supporting goals and initiatives through actions and attitude.
Consistently follows policies and ethical guidelines, maintains confidentiality, and contributes to a culture of professionalism, respect, and service.