Description

WORK, Inc. prohibits discrimination against any staff member or applicant on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, disability, creed, citizenship status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Job Summary:

WORK Inc., one of New England’s most progressive providers of services to adults with disabilities is seeking an exceptional Pre-Engagement Coach to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and mental illness in overcoming barriers to engaging in services and community life. Coaching takes place one-on-one and is highly individualized. The coach will strive to build a person-centered relationship with individuals supporting them in acquiring necessary skills and joining them on a pathway to achieving self-identified goals. Coaches will use a strengths-based approach and an array of appropriate and evidence-based strategies for individuals with ASD depending on the specific barriers each person is facing. Coaching will be done in individuals’ homes and community, as well as remotely as needed/wanted by the individual. Applicants must be very reliable, patient, and able to effectively adapt their approach to each individual’s unique situation and needs.

Essential Functions:

1. Engagement and rapport building – Establishes and fosters relationships with individuals and their families that are built on trust and a commitment to the individual’s personal growth
2. Data collection - Administering pre-tests and assessments on basic independent living skills, ongoing re-evaluation of goals and progress, and post-tests once a goal is completed
3. Goal setting - Self-directed by individuals, help to formulate concrete goals, objectives, and tasks
4. Skill building - Weekly meetings/sessions/interactions with individuals to provide instruction and support
5. Case reviews – Collaborates with the Director of Autism Services to obtain feedback and recommendations regarding ongoing interventions
6. Additional tasks as assigned – Providing support to other programs and staff in the department as needed, such as facilitating groups, and/or providing coaching to individuals not enrolled in Pre-Engagement services

Responsible for:

1. Assisting individuals with identifying, prioritizing, and managing their goals and objectives in the following areas (but not limited to):
   1. Coping skills
   2. Social and community engagement
   3. Self-advocacy skills
   4. Job readiness skills
   5. Public safety
   6. Executive functioning skills
   7. Health management
   8. Communicating during periods of crisis
   9. Engaging with and utilizing other services and providers such as therapy, psychiatry, family

1. Using a variety of methods and modalities to reinforce the acquisition of information and skills including collaborative problem solving, modeling, apps and technology, social stories, visual aids, etc.

1. Maintaining and completing necessary documentation

1. Providing sufficient contact with the individuals, families, residences, and other appropriate programs/agencies, and following through with agreed upon appointments and sessions with individuals

1. Advocating for each individual and makes recommendations as needed for services and supports that are beyond the scope of the Life and Wellness Coach

(The essential functions listed in this section are not limited only to the tasks indicated and may include other duties as assigned)

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Demonstrates a strong background and knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders
2. Demonstrates a strong background and knowledge of other mental health disorders
3. Strong communication skills with the ability to have positive social interactions with individuals who may be challenging to engage
4. Ability to be creative and utilize unique strategies to help motivate and encourage individuals
5. Knowledge of local community resources, and ability to further research services and activities an individual may be interested in
6. Ability to work with a wide range of individuals, families, and other service providers
7. Ability to make and commit to appointments/sessions with individuals
8. Ability to complete initial assessment of individual and conduct routine progress-measuring tools
9. Patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor

Qualification/Education/Experience:

1. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline including Psychology, Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, with one-two years post college experience working with individuals with ASD and/or mental health disorders. Or extensive three years of experience working with individuals with ASD and/or mental health disorders.
2. Previous experience in a coaching or mentoring role preferred
3. Commitment to high quality customer services
4. Strong interpersonal, organizational, analytical, written and oral communication skills.
5. Valid driver’s license required with acceptable driving record and dependable transportation; must be able to pass CORI and fingerprinting back ground checks