Department: Mental Health Services

Job Title: Community Support Specialist I (CSS I) $20.40
Status: Hourly

Scope of Service: Provides a comprehensive array of supports focused on skill building and case management activities supporting clients to achieve a meaningful level of independence and well-being. Completes screenings and assessments with clients to support in the development of person-centered care plans to support individual growth. Provides services in a team approach which include but are not limited to: rehabilitative supports, skill building for activities of daily living, access and engagement to area resources, facilitates psycho-education groups, socialization and community integration. Collectively engages in day-to-day activities, completes assigned documentation per contract and agency requirements, and assists with maintaining a clean working environment. Performs other duties as assigned.

In addition, the Community Integration Support Specialist provides case management support to the housing First & Pilots staff and clients, as needed. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. EOE

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Client Care:

• Establishes rapport and positive working relationships with clients while maintaining professional ethics and boundaries.
• Supports client’s integration into the community providing resources for clients that enable them to secure and maintain affordable housing. Maintains regular contact with clients as defined.
• Coordinates and assists clients with referrals, obtaining and maintaining entitlements, money management, treatment, medical care, transportation, housing, wellness/nutrition, legal services, education and employment, etc.
• Develops, implements, and monitors person-centered plans with the client in all aspects of care, up to and including the intake and discharge processes.
• Enhances a client’s independent living skills by assessing and providing various modalities of teaching and assistance (e.g. modeling, prompting, hands-on assistance).
• Assists the client in identifying potential barriers to achieving his/her aspirations and goals, and links the client to appropriate services to address these obstacles.
• Meets regularly with each client to review progress, mental health stability, upcoming appointments and activities, and discharge planning when appropriate.
• Conducts regular apartment/room inspections and assists the clients in maintaining the cleanliness of their living spaces which may require hands-on assistance.
• Develops and maintains working relationships with families, natural supports, and external providers and advocates on behalf of clients as necessary.
• Facilitates/co-facilitates psycho-educational groups as indicated.
• As applicable, administers breathalyzer tests and urinalysis samples.
• Supervises, monitors, and documents self-administration of client medications as applicable.
• Attends and participates in staff and All-Treater’s meetings, rounds, and supervision.
• Provides additional case management support to the Housing First & Pilots staff and clients as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree required with a minimum of two (2) years’ experience working in related behavioral health field.
• Prior experience working with people with persistent chronic mental illness and/or addiction.
• Valid Connecticut Driver’s license is required with the willingness to transport clients in personal vehicles. Position requires the employee to maintain reliable transportation and the minimum required CT State automobile liability insurance (Public Act No. 17-114). Continuum encourages all employees to maintain coverage above the state minimum requirements.
• First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain certification within 90 days of hire. Employee is responsible to maintain ongoing certification.
• Proficient computer skills required, including Microsoft Office and electronic record keeping.
• Knowledge of the community support system and resources preferred.

Continuum offers excellent benefits, matching 401(k) plan, including a generous PTO package and 12 paid holidays compensated at Double Time!

Community Support Specialist I (CSS I) $20.40

VA Next Steps - New Haven, CT 

• FT 40 Hours Tuesday - Saturday 3pm - 11pm

YAS Fountain Street- New Haven, CT 

• FT 40 Hours Monday - Friday 7am - 3pm

Auburn - New Haven, CT

• FT 40 hrsSunday - Thursday 7am - 3pm

Burban LTS II - Branford, CT:

• FT 40 Hours Monday - Friday 7AM-3PM

Meggat Park - Wethersfield, CT:

• FT 40 Hours Monday - Friday 8AM-4PM

YAS Farmington Ave - West Hartford, CT:

• PT 16 Hours Fri/Sat 3PM-11PM
• PT 16 Hours Sun/Mon 3PM-11PM

North Colony - Meriden, CT:

• FT 40 Monday - Friday 8AM-4PM