Child Mental Health Support Counselor

#nowhiring

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

LSF is seeking a dedicated Child Mental Health Support Counselor who is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young children and their families.

This is a full-time position, working Monday through Friday.

Purpose & Impact:

The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver early childhood mental health support to Head Start staff, children, and families. This encompasses a wide range of services including mental health assistance in classrooms, training and coaching for staff, screening, assessment, and referral services, as well as providing parent training workshops. Additionally, you will maintain records and data collection to ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and state regulations.

• Conduct classroom observations at least twice annually, reporting findings and coordinating support plans.
• Perform child observations and review social-emotional and mental health screenings with families and staff.
• Collaborate with classroom teams to develop and implement necessary support plans.
• Provide insights on child development, focusing on social-emotional aspects.
• Consult and coach teaching staff on social-development practices in early education settings.
• Create individualized support plans detailing treatment goals and methodologies for children receiving aid.
• Deliver direct counseling services to Head Start/Early Head Start families as needed.
• Model effective, developmentally appropriate activities and techniques to aid young children.
• Recruit parents for training opportunities and facilitate workshops on mental health issues.
• Facilitate quarterly staff training sessions related to mental health topics.
• Guide and support Mental Health Intern students in their development.
• Assist Behavior Program Specialists or other assigned subordinates.
• Contribute to performance assessments and professional development recommendations.
• Participate in meetings to enhance inclusive care for children facing developmental or emotional challenges.
• Engage in the development of mental health programs, policies, and procedures.
• Support the creation and oversight of Mental Health partnership agreements.
• Conduct developmental and behavioral screenings for referred children.
• Participate in identifying therapeutic services for children and families within the community.
• Conduct home visits (up to 5% of the role) to address family mental health needs.
• Maintain and update client documentation in ChildPlus.
• Utilize electronic systems for tracking mental health outcomes.
• Adhere to state licensure requirements set forth by the Florida Board.
• Report any suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with regulations.
• Join management meetings as required for collective planning and improvements.
• Ensure utmost confidentiality for all Head Start/Early Head Start participants in accordance with HIPAA standards.
• Attend necessary training sessions, workshops, and meetings as directed by the supervisor.
• Fulfill other related duties as assigned.

The responsibilities listed above are illustrative and may not encompass all duties of the role. Additional relevant duties may be assigned as necessary.

Must be able to lift at least 45 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Mental Health, Marriage and Family Counseling, Human Services, or a related field from an accredited institution.

License/Certification: Preference for a current State of Florida clinical license in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, or Marriage and Family Therapy (LCSW, LMHC, LMFT). Provisional licenses may also be considered.

A minimum of three years of experience in mental health services within a social services context. Experience in community engagement and experience working directly with children aged 0-5 and their families is essential. Familiarity with evidence-based practices for promoting early childhood mental health is advantageous.

Bilingual capabilities, especially in English and Spanish or other local languages, are preferred.

Additionally, you must complete First Aid and CPR certification within six months of starting, and pass a Level II background screening and drug test prior to hiring.

• Understanding of mental health issues affecting children ages 0-5.
• Experience delivering culturally sensitive services.
• Background working with trauma-affected children and knowledge of trauma-informed care.
• Proficient in clinical documentation practices.
• Skilled in building collaborative relationships with service providers and families.
• Adept at planning, organizing, and supervising work in mental health.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency with MS Office Suite (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint).

Possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel to various locations. Flexibility to work in non-traditional settings such as homes or community locations is required.

• Collaborate effectively with team members.
• Ensure efficient program operations.
• Adhere to LSF and Head Start/Early Head Start policies and management practices.
• Exhibit strong leadership capabilities.

Why work for LSF?

LSF has 60 programs across Florida, serving a diverse range of populations in need. Become part of LSF's mission-driven community, transforming lives while growing your career within the organization.

Amazing benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Telehealth access to doctors 24/7.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employer-paid life insurance equivalent to 1X salary.
• 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday.
• Generous PTO policy starting at 16 working days per year.
• 403(b) Retirement plan with a 3% discretionary employer match or student loan repayment reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement opportunities.

LSF is an equal opportunity employer.