Community Supports Specialist and Options Counselor

Northeast Independent Living Program Inc•Lawrence, MA

13d•$20 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Director of Independent Living Services, the Community Supports Specialist and Options Counselor assists individuals with disabilities in need of long term care services to make informed choices about resources, services and settings based on the consumer’s needs and preferences. This role provides advocacy that helps create an environment that allows consumers to participate in all aspects of community living through information and referral, advocacy, skills training, peer counselling and transition. Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Requirements

Associate degree in a Human Service or a related field and/or relevant independent living experience
Relevant experience in the field of Health, Social Service, Education and/or Rehabilitation
Significant knowledge concerning MassHealth, as well as its programs, services, and eligibility criteria.
Proficient skills with technology including Microsoft 365, Teams, mobile devices, and applications.
Strategic thinking skills, active listening, interviewing, and advocacy skills.
Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent listening skills
Independent travel and reliable transportation required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Provide non-biased counseling on the different options available for long term care.
Respond in a timely manner to consumer inquiries and questions.
Provide information and educate the consumer about public, private and informal services and programs that are available.
Offer support and guidance in making long term care decisions that will meet the consumer’s personal preferences and goals.
Assist consumers in navigating the complex system of state, federal and community services, programs and benefits.
Support consumers in the application processes of social security disability benefits, housing, MassHealth, assistive technology, home modifications, transportation, etc. and inform the consumers on what to expect during the process.
Discuss and gather information about the consumer’s medical, physical, emotional, and financial resources.
Engage in individual, group or systems advocacy for the rights of the persons with disabilities.
Provide guidance and support through appeal processes.
Create and maintain case files comprised of contacts, progress notes, and correspondence.
Document consumer visits and contact notes in the program’s database system.
Complete all documentation required for measuring quality and achievement of outcomes.
Participate in activities to assist the ADRC in gaining visibility and trust with community agencies, providers and the public.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Model integrity, personal and professional ethics and maintain confidential consumer and organizational data.
Maintain a positive working relationship with consumers, co-workers, referral sources and others to achieve positive outcomes.
Maintain updated computer technology competencies i.e. Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and other applications.
Work as an effective team member in a collaborative manner through strong individual contribution and commitment.
Demonstrate effective communication and problem solving skills, both verbally, written, and in electronic formats.
Achieve positive consumer relationships within his/her control, and contribute to a positive public image of the overall organization.
Maintain a positive work setting through planning and effective use of benefit time.
Commitment to continuous improvement strategies and demonstration of the knowledge, skills and abilities related to this position.
Participate in continuing education, training, and staff development opportunities.
Provide formal and informal transfer of knowledge and peer mentoring leadership.