What are the responsibilities and job description for the Transitional Services Outreach Counselor, Pittsfield position at Clinical & Support Options?
CSO is looking for a Transitional Services Outreach Counselor for our Respite program.
Respite is a 24-hour staffed program that provides short-term, temporary housing and support services for those in transition from one living arrangement to another. Respite is a program funded by the Department of Mental Health.
This position will provide short-term case coordination, outreach and support to clients and individuals utilizing Respite beds, or being screened for eligibility for Department of Mental Health (DMH) services. Service delivery is also designed to facilitate discharge from the Respite program and successful transition back to a permanent living situation.
Starting salary: $38,000-$44,000/year
As a Transitional Services Outreach Counselor:
You Will:
- Provide assessment of independent living skills and skills training in areas including transportation, money management, cleaning, laundry, food preparation, personal grooming, and health care
- Document a transition plan based on assessed needs and listing transition goals
- Assist with advocacy needs; facilitate "mediation" as appropriate
- Provide assistance in identifying and obtaining entitlements including housing and tenancy engagement
- Provide intensive support to consumers during psychiatric crises or periods of transition
- Assist consumer with identifying appropriate insurance and benefit application and accessing services of choice
- Provide assistance with developing and maintaining a "natural support network" of family and friends
- Assist consumer in negotiating relationships with roommates, landlords, and others
- Coordinate development of meaningful day activities, including clubhouse participation, schooling, employment, or volunteer activities
- Assist with finding or developing recreational and social activities of the consumer's choice
- Provide transportation for consumers as appropriate, following program guidelines
- Maintain appropriate contacts with family members, others in the "natural helping network," DMH case managers, outpatient therapists, and others as necessary to support consumers
Your Background:
- Bachelor's degree in a mental health discipline plus two years' experience in community mental health setting or Associate's degree and two years' experience or high school diploma and five years' related experience
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to support outreach and home and community-based activities
Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
We also seek applicants who embody CSO's values by being:
- Positive -- maintaining resiliency and focusing on solutions
- Respectful -- collaborating and effectively communicating
- Insightful -- demonstrating self-awareness and effectively priority setting
- Conscientious -- taking accountability and applying feedback
What We Offer:
Competitive salaries, full health and dental coverage, free CEUs for in-house training, ample paid time off, a 403B retirement savings plan, employee referral bonuses, group rate supplemental insurances, a premier employee assistance program, personal cell phone plan discounts, and a flexible, supportive work environment fostering collaboration.
Our Agency:
Clinical & Support Options, Inc. is a dynamic behavioral health organization serving Western Massachusetts for over 50 years. With offices across Springfield, Northampton, Greenfield, and beyond, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals and families. Join our team of over 650 multi-disciplinary staff and become part of a collaborative environment where excellence is fostered internally and partnerships are forged externally with community organizations. At CSO, you'll find a flexible and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration and growth. Join us and make a positive impact on thousands of lives in our communities!
CSO was voted a "Healthcare Industry Top Workplace" in 2023, 2024 and 2025. We are the fastest-growing Behavioral Health agency in Western Massachusetts. CSO has consistently received high marks on their internal employee satisfaction survey, noting that over 90% of CSO staff would recommend CSO as a great place to work. We encourage you to check us out!
CSO offers Training in: Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Skills and more.
EOE/AA
Salary : $38,000 - $44,000