Direct Support Specialist PRN - Addictions

Seven Counties Services•Louisville, KY

About The Position

The Direct Support Specialist supports individuals receiving services for addiction and related conditions by teaching daily living and recovery skills, facilitating community integration, and contributing to a safe, therapeutic environment. The role may include personal care, transportation, first aid and CPR, and supervision of self-administered medication according to program protocols. Staff are also expected to provide responsive customer service, pursue continuous quality improvement, and follow applicable safety management policies and Joint Commission standards. The position is part-time and PRN.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Zero to one year of full-time experience working with individuals receiving services for mental health, substance abuse, intellectual disability, or physical health conditions.
Ability to provide nurturing attention and care to individuals with disabilities.
Ability to communicate with verbal and nonverbal individuals.
Good interpersonal skills.
Teaching skills.
Patience and empathy.
Maturity and sound judgment.
At least 18 years of age.
Valid driver’s license.
Proof of automobile liability insurance.
Positive driving record.
Ability to lift up to 100 pounds, with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds; the role may include frequent lifting of patients.

Responsibilities

Teach, model, and coach activities of daily living, monitor individuals’ performance, and provide therapeutic feedback.
Teach psychoeducation classes on recovery topics, including medication side effects, daily living, communication, and stress management.
Plan and facilitate community-based activities and help individuals access community resources such as recovery meetings, schools, and job placement services.
Support a safe, therapeutic environment through verbal de-escalation and, when authorized, other behavior management techniques.
Represent SCS and its clients by supporting community integration and educating community members about people with disabilities and SCS services and programming.
Collaborate with community systems on behalf of individuals served, including schools, landlords, family members, transportation providers, and employers.
Provide transportation using an SCS van or personal vehicle while following safety practices, and teach and facilitate use of public transportation.
Provide personal care as needed, including hygiene, toileting, laundry, meal preparation, and safe eating techniques.
Administer first aid and CPR as needed.
Supervise self-administered medication according to the applicable clinical program’s protocols.
Exercise principle-centered leadership, provide responsive customer service, support continuous quality improvement, and follow applicable safety management policies and Joint Commission standards.