Kinship Navigator

Where New Paths Begin

OhioGuidestone is the state’s leader in community behavioral health care, serving around 26,000 Ohioans each year. We focus on the needs of the whole person by providing telehealth and in-person prevention services, as well as mental health and substance use treatment. As we help people navigate the most difficult times in their lives—with compassion and respect—we ultimately empower them to take steps towards a healthier future. 

Essential Functions:

The Kinship Navigator will provide intensive, flexible and responsive support to both caregivers and the child(ren) living in the home. The Navigator will meet with the kinship family at minimum once per week or as needed. The Navigator will provide guidance, parenting support and training, positive discipline guidance, as well as information and education around child development, navigating custody challenges, managing complex family dynamics. Develop and maintain a service relationship with the Kinship youth, Kinship family, and other service providers. Comply with hours indicated on the service plan. Provide youth with various services including tutoring, mentoring, socialization skills, role modeling, independent living skills and recreational activities. Provide Kinship parents with information on positive behavior management, communication skills, and relationship enhancement skills as needed. Provide crisis intervention and mediation as necessary. Document according to agency policy. Participate in staff training, supervisory meetings, and quarterly meetings as scheduled. Meet regularly with Supervisor on an ongoing basis. Maintains regular and reliable attendance. May be involved in the planning, organization, and implementation of special events or department specific projects or seasonal program changes. In times of need, employee may be asked to complete related duties other than those indicated above as assigned by their supervisor. Will participate in various recreational activities with the kinship family as needed to provide support out in the community.

Performance/Physical Requirements:

Work is performed in the homes of Kinship clients and in the community. This involves extensive driving with own vehicle. Crisis intervention may involve verbal de-escalation techniques. English reading, writing skills and typing skills required. Computer access and competency required. Interacts verbally with clients, families, co-workers, and representatives from outside agencies. Attention to detail and confidentiality required at all times. Works flexible hours. The Kinship Navigator will provide service delivery upholding federal state laws, rules, regulations and guidelines as well as policy and procedures of OhioGuidestone. The Kinship navigator will complete all necessary tasks and reporting required for program contracts or funding sources.

Qualifications:

Minimum educational level is a High School Diploma or GED. A Bachelor’s degree in the Social Sciences and experience working with special needs children is preferred. Must have a valid driver’s licenses with a safe driving record and proof of auto insurance. Ability to take and pass a physical exam, tuberculosis test, and drug screening.

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