OBJECTIVE/PURPOSE:
Under the direction of the Therapeutic Activities Program Coordinator, the Direct Support Professional - Respite is responsible for performing a variety of tasks for a child who has mental health needs to mitigate the buildup of stressors that put children at risk of more serious difficulties and / or removal from the home. Those tasks are related to the instruction, supervision, and monitoring of individuals' skills for developing independence and inclusion into the community and improved social skills.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.0 DIRECT SERVICE:

Provides recreational activities and services to children in a respectful, friendly, and professional manner that supports client choice. Responsibilities include facilitating individual's inclusion into the community through development and participation of meaningful community-based activities. Provides transportation for children and/or adolescents to and from community-based activities. Provides crisis intervention as directed by the program coordinator or manager. Acts as a role model for the clients and the community, understanding that all interactions are opportunities for teaching. Follows all treatment plans and supporting documents (i.e. behavior, safety, or communication plans). Attends all trainings and other meetings, as assigned. Required to work as a team or within a team of other community support workers to provide programming for clients at the Burgess Road After School Program.

2.0 RECORD KEEPING:

Initiates and maintains compliance of timely and thorough record keeping and administrative/clinical documentation required to account for services to clients and program requirements. Such work includes, but is not limited to, client-specific assessments, case services, and progress notes, time sheets, schedules, and assigned periodic reports.

3.0 NETWORKING:

Provides needed information to other staff, professionals, and family in a professional confidential manner. Serves as advocate and/or liaison on behalf of individual served, and UCS. Participates as a problemsolver in "team" and other meetings.

4.0 CONSULTATION

Acts as a member of the child's treatment team. Provides consultation/updates to case manager, parents, etc., as needed about child's needs/behavior. May attend treatment team meetings, as needed.


* In addition to the above, performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE/CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma or equivalent. Relevant experience in human services field preferred. Experience working with children and youth required.

LICENSE REQUIRED:
Valid Driver's License

SKILLS REQUIRED:
* Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
* Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
* Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

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