Community Support Specialist (Master's Level - Licensure Track)

As a Community Support Specialist at McClendon Center, you'll engage directly with individuals facing mental health challenges. Your primary responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing individualized service plans, and providing crisis intervention. You’ll also help clients access necessary resources and deliver educational support to both clients and their families, ensuring they manage symptoms effectively and adhere to treatment plans.

To apply for the Community Support Specialist role at McClendon Center, you need a Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate experience in mental health or social services, possess strong clinical assessment skills, and have a genuine desire to pursue licensure. Proficiency in electronic health records and excellent communication skills are also essential.

Absolutely! McClendon Center is committed to the professional growth of its team members. They offer free clinical supervision to assist you on your journey to licensure, as well as covering exam and licensure costs for eligible candidates, ensuring you have the support you need to advance your career.

The work environment at McClendon Center is collaborative and supportive. As a Community Support Specialist, you'll work within a multidisciplinary team, participating in meetings and training sessions to enhance your skills. The center is dedicated to ethical practice and client advocacy, providing a respectful and empowering atmosphere where compassionate professionals thrive.

McClendon Center offers a competitive starting salary of $43,000 to $50,500 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% employer-paid health, dental, and wellness benefits. Employees also receive generous paid time off, retirement contributions, tuition assistance, and are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. It's a workplace that truly values and invests in its employees.

When developing individualized service plans, I prioritize understanding the unique needs and preferences of each client. I start with a comprehensive assessment, facilitating open communication to gather insights into their backgrounds, challenges, and goals, which guides the creation of a tailored plan that promotes their independence and overall well-being.

Certainly! I recall a situation where a client experienced a severe anxiety attack. I quickly assessed the situation, utilized de-escalation techniques, and provided emotional support while guiding the client to a safer environment. By collaborating with the client to identify coping strategies, we were able to stabilize them and engage in further support planning.

Engaging with diverse populations requires sensitivity and adaptability. I employ active listening, culturally competent communication, and respect for all backgrounds. I strive to understand each client's unique context and tailor my approach to ensure they feel valued, empowered, and understood throughout our interactions.

Maintaining confidentiality is paramount in my practice. I adhere to ethical guidelines and legal standards that protect client information. This includes secure documentation practices, discussing sensitive information only with relevant parties, and emphasizing the importance of trust to clients, assuring them their privacy is respected.

I have experience with crisis intervention in both clinical and community settings. My approach focuses on quick assessment and the application of evidence-based techniques to de-escalate high-stress situations while ensuring the safety of clients. I also follow up with appropriate resources and support systems to address underlying issues.

I ensure my documentation is precise and timely, including detailed progress notes and service records that reflect the client's journey. I use electronic health records, maintaining organized files that comply with regulations while also enhancing communication within the multidisciplinary team.

Effective teamwork in a multidisciplinary setting hinges on open communication, respect for diverse expertise, and shared goals. I prioritize regular meetings, constructive feedback, and collaborations that leverage each team member's strengths to provide the best comprehensive care for clients.

To stay informed on best practices in mental health support, I read relevant literature, participate in training, and attend workshops. Additionally, I engage with professional organizations and online forums that focus on mental health advancements to continually enhance my skills and knowledge.

I am drawn to McClendon Center due to its reputation for delivering quality community-based mental health support. The organization’s commitment to employee growth through clinical supervision and professional development resonates with my values, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to positive change in the community.

When a client shows non-compliance with their treatment plan, I approach the situation with empathy, seeking to understand their reasons. I engage in open dialogue, exploring any barriers they might face, and work together to adjust the treatment plan in a way that supports their needs, promotes motivation, and reinforces their agency.