Position Summary

The Family Support Specialist works alongside Youth Community Support workers to provide support to parents/guardians of children with serious mental health issues. The Family Support Specialist must be a parent of a child who has or has had mental health needs, and who is able to provide support and encouragement to parents whose children are currently receiving services for mental health needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Provides information and support to the parent/caregiver so they have a better understanding of their child/youth's needs.

• Assists parents/guardians in understanding the planning process and the importance of their voice in the development and implementation of the individualized, strength-based treatment plan.

• Assists the family in understanding the roles of the various providers and the importance of the "team" approach.

• Empowers parents/caregivers to become involved in activities related to planning, development, and implementation of services for the client.

• Discusses the benefit of natural supports within the client’s family and community.

• Introduces methods of problem solving and development strategies to address issues. Provides support and information to parents/caregivers of Transition Age Youth related to the shift from being the decision maker to being the support for youth.
• Connects families to community resources.
• Completes progress notes in Avatar within 72 hours, clearly documenting the intervention and reason for the intervention.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Education/Certifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required, some college experience preferred.

• Must have valid driver license, state required insurance, and reliable transportation.

• Must be a Missouri resident for at least 2 years.

• CPR/First Aid Certification and Annual TB testing required.

• Completion of the Family Support Provider training as approved and provided by the Division of Behavioral Health at earliest opportunity upon hire.

Experience:

• Must be a parent/family member of a child who has received mental health services for a behavioral or emotional disorder.

Required Knowledge:

• The ability to navigate multiple social systems from a parent/guardian perspective.

Skills/Abilities:

• Must be flexible in hours to meet the needs of parents/families. Excellent customer relationship skills.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Microsoft Outlook, and the ability to use the internet for basic tasks.

• Ability to use basic business equipment.