Mental Health Specialist

Hillcrest Transitional Housing • Kansas City, KS

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Hillcrest Transitional Housing is seeking a passionate and qualified Mental Health Specialist to join our team and contribute to the success of our transitional housing programs. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in providing mental health support to our homeless clients, promoting overall well-being, and facilitating their successful transition to self-sufficiency. The Mental Health Specialist is a member of the Hillcrest Programs Team, reporting directly to the Chief Programs Officer.

Requirements

• Master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.
• Current state of Kansas licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of or demonstrate experience in similar and transferable technical qualifications outlined below.
• Familiar and comfortable using Windows based computers.
• Demonstrated ability to utilize software and web-based applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience working in web-based electronical systems containing health records.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principals and evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
• Ability to empathize with the unique challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of homeless individuals.
• Readiness to adapt counseling strategies to the dynamic and ever-changing needs of clients in a transitional housing environment.
• Capacity to manage the emotional toll of working with individuals facing homelessness and the associated mental health issues.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey therapeutic concepts and support clients in expressing themselves.
• Willingness to collaborate with other professionals, case managers, and support staff within the transitional housing program.
• Patience in building trust with clients who may have experienced trauma and may be hesitant to engage in counseling.
• Advocacy for the rights and well-being of homeless individuals, and a commitment to social justice.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and provide effective crisis intervention when necessary.
• Inspiring and motivating clients to set and achieve realistic goals, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment.

Nice To Haves

• Frequent, daily travel in the Kansas City Metro area.
• Proof of a valid driver’s license, reliable personal transportation, and adequate personal vehicle insurance.
• Successful background, reference, and motor vehicle checks.
• Compassion for the struggles and traumas that clients may have encountered, and a non-judgmental attitude.
• Ability to adapt counseling approaches to be inclusive and respectful of different cultural perspectives.
• Flexibility in responding to unexpected challenges or crises that may arise.
• Awareness of the importance of self-care practices to maintain personal well-being.
• Ability to communicate complex mental health concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care.
• Understanding of the time and process involved in helping clients navigate their mental health journey.
• Willingness to address systemic issues contributing to homelessness and work towards positive change.
• Skills in de-escalation and managing urgent mental health situations.
• Positive attitude and belief in the potential for positive change.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments for clients receiving services from Hillcrest.
• Provide individual and group counseling sessions to address trauma, mental health issues, and substance abuse concerns.
• Develop personalized treatment plans in collaboration with clients, considering their unique needs and goals.
• Implement evidence-based interventions and therapeutic techniques to support clients in achieving mental health and stability milestones.
• Offer immediate crisis intervention and support for clients experiencing mental health crises.
• Collaborate with external mental health resources and emergency services as needed.
• Work collaboratively with case managers, social workers, and other team members to ensure holistic care for clients.
• Participate in case conferences and contribute to the development and execution of integrated care plans.
• Conduct mental health awareness workshops for clients and staff within the transitional housing program.
• Collaborate with community partners to enhance access to mental health resources and support services.

Benefits

• Paid training and onboarding.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability insurance available on the first day of month following hire.
• Defined medical contribution of $400 per month.
• Retirement savings plan (403b) with 3% company match after one year of continuous employment.
• Retirement savings plan (403b) with 6% company match after five years of continuous employment.
• PTO is allotted each year based on years of service.
• Paid parental leave after one year of continuous employment for up-to six weeks for birth, adoption, or placement of a child.
• 12 paid holidays and 1 Floating Holiday annually.
• Established Employee Assistance Program and self-funded Employee Assistance Fund.
• Discount of 25% at our Lenexa and Lee’s Summit Thrift stores.
• Annual professional development opportunities.
• Advancement opportunities within the organization.
• Positive and collaborative work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level