Clinical Support Specialist

DESC•Seattle, WA

6d•$39 - $43

About The Position

The Clinical Support Specialist works under the direction of the CSS Supervisor or Project Manager and as part of an integrated care team to provide and coordinate clinical services for tenants. The role provides case management and mental health services and coordinates care with DESC staff and outside providers. DESC is a social services organization, supportive housing operator, and licensed behavioral health treatment provider serving people experiencing long-term homelessness and complex behavioral health and medical conditions.

Requirements

Ability to perform the major and assigned duties, with or without accommodations.
Current Washington State Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) license, equivalent credential, or ability to obtain an AAC license soon after hire.
Clinical experience working with homeless adults disabled by chronic alcoholism, mental illness, and drug use.
Knowledge of local homeless, mental health, and chemical dependency service systems.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behavior.
Commitment to cooperation and continuity across agency programs and to consideration and respect for clients.
Relevant bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related behavioral science, or a combination of one year of relevant paid work experience and demonstrated ability to perform the required duties.
Internal applicants in direct, client-facing positions may substitute six months of experience for the one-year experience requirement.

Nice To Haves

Two years of experience working with homeless adults disabled by chronic alcoholism, mental illness, and/or drug use.
Valid Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record.

Responsibilities

Engage tenants using creative, equitable, culturally relevant strategies that build trust, and publicize available services.
Develop and routinely update Integrated Service Plans with tenants, case managers, and other staff to outline goals and strategies for housing success.
Identify and coordinate case management services provided by DESC or outside providers.
Support tenants in maintaining safe, healthy unit conditions and passing inspections, including hands-on cleaning assistance, coordinating caregiver or chore-worker services, and teaching independent living skills.
Provide case management services not covered by other providers.
Maintain regular contact with tenants and case managers to monitor progress toward service-plan goals and ensure services are provided.
Document tenant interactions in accordance with agency guidelines and project requirements.
Meet contractual service and documentation obligations relevant to the project.
Use trauma-informed strategies to respond to crises and assist with building rule enforcement and lease compliance as needed.
Educate and support tenants in succeeding as leaseholders.
Help tenants form interest groups or therapeutic support groups and facilitate them when appropriate.
Organize outings and activities to develop daily living skills and increase meaningful activity.
Work with tenants and staff to identify needs for additional services, groups, and activities, and coordinate these with providers and community resources.
Provide culturally relevant individual counseling, information, and referrals as needed.
Facilitate community meetings.
Participate in staff meetings and trainings.
Perform other duties as assigned.