Youth Support Specialist

2 weeks ago


San Luis Obispo, California, United States Transitions Mental Health Asso Full time
Job Overview

Position Title: Youth Support Specialist – Relief Opportunities

Program: Youth Treatment Services

Position Summary:

The Youth Treatment Services (YTS) is a restorative, trauma-informed, residential program designed for up to six youth in foster care. Youth Support Specialists (YSS) provide round-the-clock, awake support in a nurturing environment. The program is grounded in the belief that youth heal and modify their behavior in the presence of adults who are safe, consistent, empathetic, and attuned to their needs. YTS meets the youth where they are and operates under the understanding that all behavior is an attempt to fulfill a need. Our role is to assist them in developing the capacity, safety, and trust necessary to learn and practice healthier strategies to meet those needs. This trauma-informed approach emphasizes "connection before correction" and aims to foster a sense of partnership rather than mere compliance with each youth, allowing them to trust the care provided by adults.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Ensure the safety, health, and overall well-being of residents.
  2. Supervise and engage with residents during program activities, which may include outings, daily tasks, educational support, and transportation to appointments.
  3. Promote and maintain trauma-informed practices throughout all services and activities. Advocate for clear, empathetic, and person-centered communication.
  4. Provide crisis intervention through guidance, counseling, and role modeling, adhering to program policies.
  5. Complete necessary program documentation, including incident reports and daily logs for each resident.
  6. Encourage cooperation and harmony within the group living environment.
  7. Organize and facilitate transportation for residents to appointments and outings.
  8. Monitor resident medications and manage related documentation.
  9. Participate in required training sessions.
  10. Perform additional duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

Moderate physical activity is required, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. The role involves moderate risks that necessitate safety precautions and may expose staff to intense situations.

Qualifications:

In accordance with California Care Licensing, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Bachelor's degree in Arts or Sciences
  • Valid Child Development Teaching Permit
  • Completion of 12 semester units in Early Childhood Education, Adolescent Development, or Foster and Kinship Care Education, along with at least 100 hours of experience working with youth
  • Valid certification as an Alcohol or Drug Counselor, with at least 100 hours of experience working with youth
  • Vocational training certificate or credential demonstrating experience instructing youth in vocational skills, with at least 100 hours of experience
  • Prior full-time employment or volunteer experience at a group home, STRTP, or substance abuse treatment program for a minimum of one year
  • Relevant life experience in child welfare, mental health, or juvenile justice systems as a consumer, mentor, or caregiver

Strong interpersonal skills, a collaborative work style, and effective oral and written communication abilities are essential. Candidates should possess well-defined organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work independently and adaptively. The role requires handling intense situations with sound judgment and maintaining composure under pressure. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with diverse individuals across various backgrounds.

Physical Demands:

  • Visual acuity
  • Auditory skills
  • Verbal communication
  • Physical mobility, including bending and lifting
  • Driving
  • Extended periods of standing
  • Utilization of hands and fingers for various tasks


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