Behavioral Support Specialist

Allegheny Community Home Care•Monroeville, PA

About The Position

The Behavioral Specialist assists in providing behavioral supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across existing programs. This role is responsible for identifying behavioral goals and intervention strategies using Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and developing individualized, person-centered Behavior Support Plans (BSPs). The Behavioral Specialist embraces individualized care and applies positive, evidence-based approaches to support behavioral change.

Requirements

Master's degree (preferred) in Social Work, Psychology, Education, or a related field from an accredited institution; Bachelor's degree in a similar discipline required.
Minimum of three (3) years of experience working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Strong knowledge of behavioral principles, evaluation methods, and assessment processes.
Maintains current licensure at agency expense
Valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle
Strong documentation and time-management skills
Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
Maintains confidentiality of individual and agency information
Demonstrates professionalism and a positive image
Knowledge of and compliance with agency policies and procedures

Nice To Haves

Behavior Specialist licensure and/or certification preferred, including:
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP)
Other comparable behavioral health licenses

Responsibilities

Develop individualized Behavior Support Plans by conducting Functional Behavior Assessments in collaboration with program staff.
Design and implement Positive Behavior Support Plans using prevention and intervention strategies grounded in positive approach methodology.
Communicate effectively with all members of the individual's support team, including the person served, community living specialists, program managers, quality administrators, family members, advocates, support coordinators, therapists, and other providers.
Document individual progress and evaluate the effectiveness of behavioral interventions and collaborative services.
Observe and assess individual responses to behavioral plans and modify interventions as necessary.
Conduct behavioral assessments upon referral from staff or other appropriate sources.
Actively participate in treatment team meetings while maintaining a person-centered focus.
Provide and document staff training on behavioral management plans, including intervention techniques, required documentation, and behavior guidelines.
Support and encourage individuals to maximize independence.
Provide crisis management services and clinical consultation as needed.
Develop proficiency in psychopathology, crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, and behavioral therapy.
Attend psychiatric and psychological consultations as required.
Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating professionalism, dignity, and respect toward individuals served, staff, administrators, and providers.
Participate in professional development and training opportunities.
Develop additional resources, plans, and assessments to address identified needs.
Compile and distribute reports accurately and within established timelines.
Work cooperatively with administrative and program staff.
Perform other duties as assigned by executive program staff.