Overview

Developmental Disabilities Institute, DDI, is one of the largest providers of care to children and adults with Autism, developmental disabilities and other special needs. DDI has been a part of Long Island for over 50 years serving over 1,500 children and adults with Autism, other developmental disabilities and special needs. DDI provides innovative and expansive services to our population through various educational settings, residential services, day habilitation programs and vocational services.

Responsibilities

• Complete screening, initial and annual assessments ensuring paperwork is completed and filed appropriately in each individual’s record
• Conducting functional assessments for the purpose of behavior support planning, design and monitoring (involving observation, interview with staff)
• Author behavior support plans based on positive behavior support
• Implement and monitor ongoing data collection to assess progress of behavior support plan and identify need for referral to Human Rights Committee where applicable
• Observe staff working with individuals to ensure BSP is being followed
• Provide feedback and modeling for staff on implementation of behavior support strategies
• Update monthly statement of objectives (i.e., behavioral goals) by the end of the first week of the following month
• Complete annual assessment, quarterly/semi annual reviews and monthly summaries accurately and in a timely manner
• Coordinate with Speech Language Pathologist the development and implementation of functional communication programs
• Implement and monitor ongoing data collection to assess progress of communication programs
• Ensure consistency between existing communication plan and needs identified in behavior support plan
• Ensure that parent/guardian consent for behavior support plans is obtained annually or following significant change to plan
• Ensure that Human Rights Committee approvals are in place prior to psychotropic medication being begun or increased
• Coordination of review and monitoring usage of SCIP-R
• Attending psychiatry and speech/communication appointments
• Provide inservice training for staff behavior plans, general behavior support methods, individual needs and diagnosis, general orientation classes, etc.
• Attending and participating in staff meetings, IDTs, annual meetings
• Attending Human Rights Committee when needed
• Advocating for medication reductions when appropriate
• Attending departmental meetings with supervisor and peers
• Arranging all formal testing as required
• Demonstrating knowledge of procedures for handling emergencies
• Demonstrating familiarity with state and federal regulations in the psychology, communication, and life safety areas of support.
• Demonstrating knowledge of DDI’s policies on the treatment of problem behavior
• Determines appropriately when to inform/ask supervisor for assistance
• Advances own knowledge of field (reading, attending continuing education opportunities)
• Independently works the hours and times necessary to meet the needs caseload
• Respond to off hour needs of individuals ad programs as necessary (on-call)
• Works and communicates effectively with peers, team, and staff
• Serves as a role model of professional behavior in such areas as dress, interpersonal relations and job performance.

Qualifications

• Masters Degree or current enrollment in a Psychology or Spec Ed Graduate Program
• At least 1 year experience providing behavioral support in DD/ID field preferred

DDI is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to actual or perceived race, color, sex, pregnancy, reproductive decision making, gender expression or identity, national origin, disability, military status, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, status as a victim of domestic violence or any other group protected by federal, state or local law. We are committed to creating a deep sense of belonging and a culture where all applicants and employees feel welcomed, valued and respected. We are people inspired by purpose.

Education

• Masters or better in Psychology or related field