High Desert ESD celebrates all cultures and languages and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regards to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Mental/Behavioral Health Specialist EIECSE (Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education)

40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 189 day contract (pro-rated for remainder of 2023-24 school year)

Location: Tri-County EI/ECSE

Salary Range: As established by bargaining agreement, 2023-24 Licensed Salary Schedule (based on experience and education). 

Benefits include family insurance package, paid sick leave and holidays, tuition reimbursement program, generous PERS contribution

Definition
The Mental/Behavioral Health Specialist provides support/counseling to children and families enrolled in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education programs. The Mental/Behavioral Health Specialist may provide 1:1 service, small group social skills instruction, facilitate parent groups, and collaborate with other professionals on the IFSP team in meeting the diverse needs of students. The Mental/Behavioral Health Specialist also supports families in obtaining access to additional community services. 

Qualifications
Masters degree in social work, counseling, or clinical psychology. At least two years of counseling experience with young children. Must have current licensure; LCSW or LPC. The ability to perform significant reaching, bending, stooping, crouching and lifting 50 pounds is expected. Must have access to reliable transportation, and consistent attendance is required. Applicants must have successful experience in working with culturally diverse families and communities, and/or have otherwise demonstrated a commitment to equity and strengthening engagement of a diverse community and skill in communicating with a diverse population.

Importantly, we recognize and honor that the qualifications required to excel in this position can come from a range of both professional and lived experiences. In the attached job description we describe what we believe to be important qualifications for a candidate to have while remaining open to the diversity of experiences that can lead to these skill sets. Position descriptions are often presented in a way that leaves qualified candidates feeling unwelcome, intimidated, uncomfortable, and/or unqualified to apply. Recognizing that, we strongly encourage anyone who feels passionate about this work and believes they have what it takes to thrive in this role to apply.

Classification Licensed

Reports To/Evaluated By Program Supervisor

Performance Responsibilities

1. Promote/teach positive coping and stress management skills
2. Respond to need for crisis intervention
3. Communicate regularly with families/provide family counseling when appropriate
4. Identify families who may need additional counseling/services and make appropriate community referrals as necessary
5. Participate in team meetings to problem solve and provide guidance to staff in working with students where mental health issues may be a concern
6. Keep appropriate records
7. Communicate clearly and appropriately verbally and in writing
8. Respect and maintain confidential information in all situations.
9. Trained in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Collaborative Problem Solving
10. Fulfill other related duties as assigned

Terms of Employment

Salary and benefits are established by policy and contract.