Youth Treatment Specialist (Part-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health

Wedgwood Christian Services•Grand Rapids, MI

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Wedgwood Christian Services is seeking a Youth Treatment Specialist to provide direct care within their residential behavioral health program serving adolescent boys (ages 12-17). This role involves creating a stable, caring environment to help youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma. The position is part of a trauma-informed residential treatment team and utilizes the Good Lives Model rehabilitation approach. The specialist will work alongside a multidisciplinary treatment team, implementing individualized treatment plans, maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment, building mentoring relationships, utilizing de-escalation techniques, supporting behavioral regulation, modeling and teaching life skills, engaging in activities, administering medications, documenting records, and transporting residents.

Requirements

At least 20 years of age
High school diploma or GED
Valid driver's license
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
Alignment with Wedgwood’s Statement of Faith, vision and values

Nice To Haves

Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)
Psychology
Counseling
Human Services
Child Development
Criminal Justice (youth focus)
Good Lives Model
Addiction Studies
Behavioral Health or related field
Residential treatment (adolescents or adults)
Behavioral health or mental health settings
Juvenile justice or youth-serving programs
Crisis intervention or trauma-informed environments
Rehabilitation or recovery centers/shelters
Group homes, inpatient, or community mental health

Responsibilities

Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers
Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model
Build consistent, mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches
Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation
Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills
Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation
Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities
Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines
Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards
Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed