Mental Health Specialist II - Acute Behavioral Services

Dungarvin•Grand Rapids, MN

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Dungarvin is currently hiring Mental Health Specialist 2 (MHS2) professionals to join their compassionate and dedicated teams in communities across Minnesota. These direct care roles are ideal for individuals with experience in mental health support and behavior management. Dungarvin is a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response, and choice, dedicated to providing person-centered supports that allow people to live as independently as possible. Employees will work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs. With services in 15 states, the team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference—one person, one voice, one choice at a time. The Acute Behavioral Services (ABS) group homes support individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs. Many of the people served have experienced frequent crises, hospital stays, or legal involvement, and may have a history of failed placements, requiring a highly structured environment to succeed. The homes are specially designed for safety, and the approach is consistent, person-centered, and focused on helping individuals reach their goals while maintaining safety for everyone. Due to the challenging nature of this work, staff receive training in behavioral support and crisis response, including the use of manual restraints when necessary. This role may involve exposure to verbal aggression or difficult behaviors, and strong training and team support are provided.

Requirements

At least 3 years working with individuals who exhibit challenging behaviors (e.g., physical/verbal aggression, property destruction, or self-injury) in a caregiving, direct support, or similar role.
Must be at least 18 years old (21+ for certain sites).
High school diploma or GED.
Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety) or developmental disabilities.
Ability to stay on your feet, walk, stand, and regularly lift up to 50 lbs.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Basic computer skills for documenting care and tracking progress.
Strong reading, writing, and verbal communication skills are essential to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with internal and external team members.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with daily activities like personal care, meal prep, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry, all while fostering independence.
Use proven strategies to manage behaviors and support mental wellness.
Keep the home clean and safe while promoting a positive, structured routine.
Be a role model—encourage progress, offer support, and celebrate milestones.