Mental Health Care Specialist

Lansing School District•Lansing, MI

6d•$50,285 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Mental Health Care Specialist provides comprehensive mental health services and supports to students throughout the school day. This position works collaboratively with students, families, school staff, and community providers to address social-emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs, promote student well-being, and remove barriers to academic success. The Mental Health Care Specialist serves as a key member of the student support team, providing prevention, intervention, crisis response, and referral services.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience providing individual and small-group mental health services utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) approaches.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and the impact of trauma on student behavior, learning, and emotional development.
Experience conducting mental health risk assessments, including assessments for suicidal ideation, self-harm, and other crisis situations.
Ability to develop, implement, and monitor safety plans for students experiencing mental health concerns.
Experience collaborating with students and families to access community-based mental health services and more intensive levels of treatment when appropriate.
Strong crisis intervention, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills.
Commitment to building positive relationships and fostering a supportive, student-centered environment.
Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated willingness to collaborate with school staff, families, and community agencies.

Responsibilities

Provide direct mental health services to students through individual counseling, group interventions, and short-term therapeutic support.
Conduct mental health screenings, assessments, and crisis evaluations as needed.
Respond to student mental health emergencies and coordinate appropriate interventions and follow-up supports.
Develop and implement student safety plans in collaboration with students, families, and school personnel.
Consult with teachers, administrators, counselors, and support staff regarding student mental health needs and intervention strategies.
Coordinate referrals to community mental health agencies, healthcare providers, and other support services.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, threat assessments, MTSS processes, and student support planning.
Maintain accurate documentation and records in compliance with professional, district, state, and federal requirements.
Provide mental health education, prevention programming, and resources to students, staff, and families.
Support a safe, inclusive, and positive school climate that promotes student well-being and success.