Human Services Coordinator I, Children Youth & Families Essex North Site Office

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Lawrence, MA

20d

About The Position

The Department of Mental Health is seeking a Child/Adolescent Human Services Coordinator to promote clinically appropriate, least restrictive, close-to-home services that are strength-based, recovery-oriented, and culturally and linguistically competent. The coordinator advocates for clients’ rights with community providers, agencies, families, court systems, employers, and other significant people in their lives. The position is full-time at 37.5 hours per week, with Saturdays and Sundays off. Duties include assessing client needs, developing and monitoring Individual Service Plans, coordinating services, maintaining client records, supporting clients and families, building relationships with community providers, advocating for services and entitlements, and providing outreach and transportation when necessary. Travel may be required depending on assignment. The Department of Mental Health works to provide access to mental health services and support, promote recovery and culturally competent care, protect human rights, and support self-determination, training, and research. A criminal background check is required before hire. Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified. The position is subject to state vaccination or mitigation requirements for COVID-19 and influenza that apply to certain agency staff.

Requirements

Knowledge of psychosocial problems associated with mental or emotional disorders, including their types and symptoms.
Knowledge of counseling principles, practices, and techniques.
Familiarity with programs and services available to individuals living with mental illness.
General understanding of interviewing techniques.
Knowledge of general report-writing methods and ability to assess case management processes and results.
At least three years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional experience in human services or social work, or an equivalent combination of experience and substitutions.
A bachelor's degree or higher in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.
A current, valid motor vehicle driver's license at the class level specific to the assignment is required for incumbents who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel.
For assignments as Qualified Intellectual Disabled Professionals within the Department of Developmental Services, a bachelor's degree or higher in a specified or related field is required.

Nice To Haves

Strong interpersonal skills, including listening, relating to others, and demonstrating sensitivity and respect.
Commitment to serving a diverse population with cultural competence and sensitivity, and ability to work diplomatically and tactfully with a wide range of constituencies.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Bilingual or multilingual fluency.

Responsibilities

Help consumers obtain needed services so they can live in the least restrictive setting possible.
Complete comprehensive client assessments to determine service needs.
Develop Individual Service Plans (ISPs) with family members and providers to coordinate services and ensure continuity of care.
Implement, monitor, and modify ISPs through periodic reviews with clients and providers.
Maintain complete, current consumer records and provide statistical and billing information in a timely manner.
Establish and maintain supportive relationships with clients and families or guardians through meetings and telephone contact.
Develop working relationships with community and state agencies, school departments, and treatment providers to identify unmet needs and access services.
Help clients overcome barriers to living with family members or guardians and access flexible, wraparound services when appropriate.
Advocate for clients by obtaining services and entitlements and facilitating communication and negotiations with agencies.
Conduct outreach by telephone, home visits, or letter for ongoing assessment, supportive counseling, and continuity of care.
Attend in-service education programs to update professional skills and improve quality of care.
Transport clients when necessary to help them access services and entitlements.
Contribute to an ongoing resource file identifying community programs and services for team members.