Human Services Specialist II

City of Alexandria•Alexandria, VA

About The Position

The Human Services Specialist II assesses, coordinates, monitors, and links services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The role assists individuals and their families, guardians, and other substitute decision makers in obtaining services that meet the individual’s needs, and coordinates and monitors service implementation to support living, working, and recreation in the least restrictive environment. The specialist monitors progress toward person-centered plan outcomes and works under the supervision of the ID Support Coordination Supervisor. The position is part of the City of Alexandria’s Center for Adult Services, which provides person-centered programs and services for seniors and people affected by mental illness, intellectual disabilities, substance use disorders, abuse, or neglect. The Center supports self-determination, safety, and recovery through compassionate services based on best practices.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field.
Three years of experience providing mental health and/or substance abuse treatment services, including some experience at the Caseworker level, or an equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Valid driver’s license issued by the state of residence.
Thorough knowledge of human development, neglect, substance-related issues, behavioral health disorders, and health issues.
Knowledge of community resources, including medical, legal, mental health, economic, and social services.
Knowledge of treatment issues related to behavioral, emotional, economic, and social problems, including dual diagnosis and chemical dependency.
Skill in engaging a variety of clients and communicating clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, with clients, professionals, and citizens.
Ability to provide prevention and education services.
Ability to evaluate client needs and formulate goals to resolve social and emotional problems.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field.
At least one year of experience working with Community Medicaid Waivers.
Proficiency with the Credible electronic health record system and Microsoft Suite.
Familiarity with Virginia’s WaMS (Waiver Management System).
Ability to communicate in Spanish using all modes of communication.

Responsibilities

Conduct face-to-face visits with individuals at day programs, work sites, or residences.
Meet with individuals, families, and providers to complete assessments and identify interests, preferences, and needed services.
Provide referrals suited to individuals’ needs, talents, and desired outcomes; link them to community resources and monitor service delivery.
Maintain records and documentation in accordance with federal, state, and departmental policy.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to coordinate continued care for individuals and their representatives.
Communicate with medical, psychiatric, and administrative staff about individuals’ health and safety needs.
Coordinate and prepare annual individual support plans for individuals receiving services through CSB, Medicaid Waiver, non-waiver, or other funding sources.
Use person-centered thinking and planning, and ensure providers’ Individual Support Plans are person-centered and submitted on time.
Assess whether individuals meet ID Medicaid Waiver service criteria, advocate for DD Waiver slots, and connect individuals with community-based services.
Complete DBHDS-mandated assessments, including VIDES and SIS, for Medicaid Waiver plans.
Assist individuals and representatives with applications for government benefits, including Social Security, Medicaid, and Department of Rehabilitation benefits.
Facilitate assessments of individuals’ ability to give informed consent concerning life planning and service reviews.
Include authorized representatives, guardians, and representative payees when appropriate, and maintain contact with authorized supportive decision makers.
Initiate and monitor transportation referrals to day programs and other community engagement opportunities.
Accompany individuals to medical, dental, financial, court or legal, recreational, Housing Authority, volunteer, or employment-related appointments.
Complete referrals to the REACH Program when clients experience behavioral health crises.
Provide crisis intervention, including supportive counseling, mental health referrals, or coordination of immediate medical attention.
Attend required state, city, and agency training.
Follow HIPAA confidentiality requirements and state human rights policies.
Perform related work as required.