Part Time - Mental Health Worker - Erie, PA

Barber National Institute • Erie, PA

1d

About The Position

The Part Time Mental Health Partial Worker – School Based Substitute provides direct mental health and behavioral support in a therapeutic classroom environment. This non-exempt position helps students maintain emotional and behavioral stability while implementing individualized treatment plans in collaboration with classroom and clinical teams. The role calls for strong communication skills, crisis-prevention abilities, flexibility, dependability, and dedication to student success.

The organization supports children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral health challenges, as well as their families, by providing education, resources, and services that foster independence, dignity, and community inclusion.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a clinical or related field.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to pass Pennsylvania background clearances (Act 34, Act 151, and 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.
• Compassionate, student-centered approach to behavioral and mental health support.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, including the ability to collaborate with teachers, clinicians, supervisors, students, families, and staff.
• Crisis-intervention awareness and the ability to maintain a safe, structured environment.
• Flexibility and dependability for a substitute-based role, and professionalism when working with students, families, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Provide therapeutic classroom support by implementing individualized treatment plans and promoting student engagement.
• Assist with and lead structured social-skills groups and other therapeutic activities.
• Support daily classroom routines, including attendance, materials preparation, and recreational activities.
• Observe and report student progress, behavioral changes, and safety concerns to supervisors and the clinical treatment team.
• Complete daily progress notes and assist with documentation for Treatment Team Reviews.
• Provide crisis intervention when necessary using approved techniques.
• Communicate with classroom staff and mental health professionals to support continuity of care.
• Support volunteers, assist with transportation-related needs, and participate in summer or extended programs as required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time