Vocational Specialist (Hennepin ACT)

As a Vocational Specialist at RADIAS Health, your primary responsibilities will include helping clients find and sustain competitive employment, coaching them on job interview skills, and assisting with necessary paperwork. Additionally, you'll work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement recovery goals and treatment plans. You will also provide training on independent living skills, facilitate access to community resources, and offer crisis intervention services when needed.

To qualify for the Vocational Specialist position at RADIAS Health, candidates should possess a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Behavioral Sciences or a related field along with 2,000 hours of supervised experience working with individuals with mental illnesses. Furthermore, 2,000 hours of training or supervised experience in substance abuse treatment is required, along with a commitment to ongoing professional development.

RADIAS Health offers comprehensive training in the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model for its Vocational Specialists. This support ensures that you are well-equipped to help clients access employment opportunities and build their independence, integrating trauma-informed and clinical rehabilitation interventions into your approach effectively.

Yes, the Vocational Specialist position at RADIAS Health requires flexibility, including availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary. This flexibility allows for optimal support and engagement with clients while accommodating the unpredictable nature of their needs.

RADIAS Health provides a robust benefits package to its Vocational Specialists, including health insurance options, tuition reimbursement, a 403b retirement plan with employer matching, paid time off (PTO), short-term and long-term disability insurance, and wellness programs to support overall health. The organization promotes an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

When helping a client find a job, I would first assess their skills, interests, and readiness for employment. I would work collaboratively with them to set realistic job goals, assist in creating a tailored resume, prepare them for interviews, and personally connect them with local job opportunities. Continuous encouragement and support would be key throughout the process.

In my previous roles, I have utilized the IPS model by focusing on client strengths, helping them pursue personalized job matches, and providing ongoing support. This approach has led to successful employment outcomes by fostering independence and sustainable job placements. I am committed to following the IPS principles to enhance clients' recovery and integration into the community.

For crisis intervention, I employ active listening and empathetic communication to de-escalate situations. I maintain a calm demeanor and quickly assess the client's needs to develop an immediate plan and connect them to appropriate resources or support. My training in trauma-informed care also plays a significant role in ensuring that I approach the situation with sensitivity.

Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team involves regular communication, sharing insights, and setting collective goals. I actively participate in team meetings, where I contribute client updates and progress. By building relationships with other professionals, such as psychiatrists and healthcare providers, I can ensure a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of a client’s wellbeing.

Independent living skills training is essential as it empowers clients to function more effectively in their daily lives. I focus on practical skills such as budgeting, cooking, and personal hygiene. By helping clients develop these skills, I enhance their confidence and self-reliance, which significantly enriches their overall recovery process.

Trauma-informed care is crucial because many of the individuals I work with have faced significant life challenges. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I can build trust and encourage clients to actively engage in their recovery. Understanding the impact of trauma allows me to customize my approach to support each individual's unique journey.

To ensure effective documentation, I make it a priority to keep records up to date and organized. I utilize templates provided by my employer and adhere closely to the ACT policy and procedures. This disciplined approach allows me to clearly communicate client progress to my team and meet regulatory requirements.

I approach hesitant clients by first building rapport and understanding their concerns. By discussing their personal goals and the benefits of employment, I aim to inspire hope. I help them set small, achievable milestones, celebrating their successes along the way to foster motivation and build confidence in their abilities.

I stay updated with best practices by participating in professional development opportunities, attending relevant workshops, and being active in professional forums. Reading latest publications and research on vocational rehabilitation ensures that my approach is informed by current evidence and trends in the field.

Certainly! One example involved a client struggling with severe anxiety. After working on their resume and conducting mock interviews, they secured a job at a local nonprofit. I provided ongoing support, ensuring they felt confident in their new role. Eventually, this client thrived, overcoming obstacles and successfully transitioning into independent living—an incredibly rewarding experience!