IPS Supported Employment & Education Specialist

Spring River Mental Health & Wellness•Riverton, KS

4d•$21

About The Position

Carries out the services of the IPS Employment program by assisting clients to obtain and maintain employment that is consistent with their vocational goals. Provides support for schooling and technical training for career advancement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work or human services field or be equivalent equivalently qualified through a combination of years of relevant experience and/or education.
This role not only requires strong interpersonal skills but also a good understanding of mental health challenges, employment rules, and community resources. It’s about empowering individuals, advocating for their rights, and fostering inclusive work environments.
Successful completion of professional references, background checks, child and adult abuse registry checks, motor vehicle record check and pre-employment drug screen.

Responsibilities

Client Assessment and Personal Information Plan: This involves understanding each client's unique needs, skills, and goals. You would evaluate their work-related capabilities and develop a tailored plan that outlines steps to achieve their vocational aspirations.
Building Trusting Relationships: Establishing a rapport with clients is essential. This might involve active listening, showing empathy, and fostering a collaborative environment where clients feel safe to express their concerns and ambitions.
Employment Support: You would assist clients in finding jobs that align with their interests and skills. This includes coaching them on job search techniques, resume writing, and interview preparation.
Workplace Accommodations: Negotiating adjustments with employers to ensure that clients can perform their roles effectively is crucial. This might include flexible hours, modified duties, or assistive technologies. Coordinate services with vocational rehabilitation counselors.
Employer Engagement: Promoting the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities is key. This could involve presenting success stories, educating employers about the available support, and addressing any misconceptions. Conduct weekly employer contacts designed to learn about the needs of businesses in the community.
Job Development Activities: Tailoring job search efforts to match the unique strengths of each client is important. You would actively seek out job opportunities that fit these criteria.
Follow-Along Support: Once clients secure employment, providing ongoing support is vital. This might include regular check-ins, addressing workplace challenges, and ensuring that clients feel comfortable and supported in their roles.
Outreach Services: If clients disengage from services, proactive outreach is necessary. This could involve phone calls, home visits, or connecting through community events to re-engage them.
Documentation and Coordination: Keeping timely records in the electronic health system and coordinating with mental health and vocational rehabilitation teams ensures that all parties are informed and aligned in their support efforts.
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT): In the context of ACT, the role emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach to support at-risk populations. Regular meetings with the ACT team and adherence to fidelity guidelines ensure that the services provided are effective and evidence based.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.