What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Health Specialist (ACT Team / Community-Based) position at Art of Recovery Services NFP?
Location: Beach Park
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Starting at $55,000 annually, based on experience/qualifications
About AOR
At AOR, we believe that recovery is a personal journey, one that looks different for each individual. It’s not always straightforward, and it’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Our mission is to offer compassionate mental health services that empower people to take ownership of their recovery. We’re dedicated to supporting clients in reaching their full potential while creating a community that values resilience, mental wellness, and inclusivity.
Position Overview
As a Community Mental Health Specialist on our Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team, you will provide intensive, community-based support to individuals living with serious mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders. This role is highly collaborative and recovery-focused, with approximately 75% of services delivered in natural settings such as clients’ homes and communities.
This position is well-suited for recent graduates or early-career professionals seeking hands-on experience in community mental health, ACT services, case management, and crisis intervention within a supportive team environment.
What You'll Be Doing
Client Support & Engagement
- Conduct wellness checks, safety assessments, and therapeutic check-ins in homes, community settings, and via telehealth
- Support clients in identifying goals and building skills that promote independence and recovery
Case Management & Documentation
- Maintain a caseload and complete timely service documentation
- Complete required assessments including IM CANS and LOCUS in the electronic medical record
Care Coordination
- Collaborate with family members, providers, and community partners to align treatment goals
- Assist clients with accessing entitlements such as SSI/SSDI, Medicaid, and SNAP
Medication & Psychoeducation
- Provide medication education and monitoring in collaboration with the ACT RN Specialist
Daily Living & Community Integration
- Support skill-building in areas such as budgeting, meal preparation, hygiene, and transportation planning etc.
Transportation Support
- Provide transportation assistance as needed using your own vehicle (mileage reimbursement provided)
Crisis Intervention
- Participate in rotating on-call and telephonic crisis support
Team Collaboration
- Actively participate in team meetings, case reviews, and shared problem-solving
- Utilize trauma-informed, strengths-based, recovery-oriented, and harm-reduction practices
What We’re Looking For
Education
- Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field (LPHA or QMHP eligible), or
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Behavioral Science with relevant coursework
Experience
- 0–2 years of experience working with individuals with mental illness (training and supervision provided)
Requirements
- Valid Illinois driver’s license
- Reliable vehicle with required insurance coverage ($100,000/$300,000 liability)
- Comfort working in community-based settings
Why Work With Us
- Competitive Pay: Starting at $55,000 annually bonus opportunities
- Meaningful Impact: Be part of real recovery stories
- Supportive ACT Team: Strong clinical support and collaborative culture
- Professional Development: Ongoing training, supervision, and growth opportunities
Comprehensive Benefits:
- Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- Paid time off and parental leave
- Mileage reimbursement
- Bonus opportunities
- Referral program