Mental Health Worker / Paraprofessional Substitute - Erie, PA

Barber National Institute • Erie, PA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

We are “making dreams come true.” Our mission is to support children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral health challenges—and the families who love them—by providing education, resources, and services that foster independence, dignity, and community inclusion.The Mental Health Partial Worker – School Based Substitute provides direct mental health and behavioral support in a therapeutic classroom environment. This non‑exempt position plays an essential role in helping students maintain emotional and behavioral stability while implementing individualized treatment plans in collaboration with classroom and clinical teams. Strong communication skills, crisis‑prevention abilities, and dedication to student success are key to this role.

Requirements

• A compassionate, student‑centered approach to behavioral and mental health support
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with teachers, clinicians, and supervisors
• Crisis‑intervention awareness and the ability to maintain a safe, structured environment
• Flexibility and dependability to support a substitute‑based role
• Teamwork skills and professionalism when working with students, families, and staff
• Bachelor’s degree in a clinical or related field
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to pass required Pennsylvania background clearances (Act 34, Act 151, Act 114)
• Successful completion of the Paraprofessional Assessment
• Completion of 20 hours of annual in‑service training, including mandatory safety training
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data entry systems
• Ability to meet physical demands, including standing, walking, light‑to‑moderate lifting (up to 35 lbs. with assistance), and participation in crisis‑management procedures

Responsibilities

• Providing therapeutic support in the classroom by implementing individualized treatment plans and promoting student engagement.
• Assisting with and leading structured social‑skills groups and other therapeutic activities.
• Supporting daily classroom routines such as attendance, materials preparation, and recreational activities.
• Observing and reporting student progress, behavioral changes, or safety concerns to supervisors and the clinical treatment team.
• Completing daily progress notes and assisting with documentation for Treatment Team Reviews.
• Providing crisis intervention when necessary using approved techniques.
• Communicating effectively with classroom staff and mental health professionals to ensure continuity of care.
• Supporting volunteers, assisting with transportation‑related needs, and participating in summer or extended programs as required.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees