Behavioral Health Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT HL7N  

We are a residential treatment center for youth with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, offering outpatient behavioral health and on-site medical services. Located on 55 peaceful acres, we provide a safe, supportive environment grounded in traditional, cultural, and spiritual values. Our holistic program blends Indigenous teachings with evidence-based practices to support healing, growth, and resilience in both Native and non-Native youth, fostering respect, honesty, generosity, and cultural identity.

POSITION SUMMARY

Provides direct supervision and support to adolescents (ages 13–18) in a residential treatment setting. Actively monitors residents, builds trusting relationships, and uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to meet individual needs. Supports residents through daily engagement, de-escalation, and crisis intervention while collaborating with clinical, PSSD, and medical teams. Maintains professional boundaries, models positive behavior, and documents all interactions in compliance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.

Depending on the need of the organization we are hiring for multiple shifts and on-call roles.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct supervision and active monitoring of adolescents (ages 13–18) on a daily basis, ensuring the safety, well-being, and engagement of residents.
• Observe resident interactions, behaviors, and emotional states continuously, responding promptly to support needs or potential safety concerns.
• Learn about each resident’s individual needs, triggers, and strengths to determine which interventions and supports are most effective.
• Engage with adolescents respectfully, meeting them where they are, maintaining a trauma-informed and therapeutic approach, and avoiding language or tone that may trigger residents.
• Facilitate conflict resolution, de-escalation, and crisis intervention, supporting a safe and therapeutic environment for residents and staff.
• Establish helping relationships with residents to build trust, promote engagement, and encourage positive behavior.
• Serve as a professional role model by demonstrating emotional control, appropriate boundaries, respect, and ethical behavior.
• Collaborate with clinical staff, PSSD, medical teams, and peers to support resident care, program consistency, and effective communication.
• Document and report resident progress, behaviors, conflicts, crisis events, and concerns accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining a supportive, strengths-based lens.
• Maintain strict confidentiality in all communications and documentation in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 regulations.
• Identify and report safety hazards, incidents, or environmental concerns to supervisors immediately.
• Participate in discussions with clinical and wing supervisors, providing observations, input, and insights about effective interventions to support individualized care.
• Promote a positive, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive environment for residents and peers.
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and respectfully with residents and staff at all times.
• Follow organizational policies, procedures, and professional standards while supporting a safe and therapeutic milieu.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support resident care, program operations, and team collaboration.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS  

Candidates must meet the minimum educational and experience requirements for the position and demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant applications. 

• Must be able to pass a drug screen and undergoing a criminal background check. (Although THC/MJ is legal in the state of WA, it will disqualify you from being employed at the Lodge).
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Experience working with adolescents in residential, behavioral health or related settings, preferably ages 13-18.
• Minimum 21 years of age 
• Must become CPR/First Aid Certified within 90 days 
• Must have a current driver’s license with a good driving record. 
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and model positive behavior.
• Experience with conflict resolution, crisis de-escalation and supporting youth in challenging situations. 
• Demonstrated emotional control, patience and professionalism in high stress situations. 
• Ability to follow policies, procedures and program protocols consistently. 

PHYSICAL DEMAND  
While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be required to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; bend, stoop, or crouch; lift and/or move up to 10 pounds; use hands to handle or feel objects and reach with arms; and communicate clearly and effectively in person and by phone. Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT  
Work is typically performed in an indoor, collaborative setting. The noise level is moderate, and interactions frequently involve communication and teamwork beyond basic work instructions. 

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS  

For full-time employees (30+ hours per week), HL7N provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote health, well-being, and financial stability. These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting and valuing our team members. 

• 100% medical, dental and vision insurance premium is paid by HL7N first of the month after 60 days of employment. 
• Up to $6,000 health reimbursement annually via Navia Debit Card for eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses. 
• $75,000 life insurance policy and disability benefits, 100% employer-paid after 90 days (FT EE). 
• 22 days of paid time off (PTO) annually, plus 12 paid holidays and up to 8 sick days per year (after 90 day probationary period). Employees are eligible for a Wellness Week after one year of employment.
• Employees are eligible for a 403(b) Retirement Plan with up to a 6% employer contribution after 12 months of employment, contingent upon working at least 1,000 hours. 
• HL7N qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  

This job description is not intended to list all duties or limit responsibilities. The Healing Lodge reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, or requirements as necessary. Every employee is expected to contribute to the success of the organization by performing assigned tasks and assisting as needed. Employment offers are made contingent upon passing a drug screen and undergoing a criminal background check. (Although THC/MJ is legal in the state of WA, it will disqualify you from being employed at the Lodge).

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT  

The Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. As a tribal organization operating with an agreement with the Indian Health Services (IHS) and pursuant to our Board’s direction, the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is required by law to provide absolute preference in employment to American Indians and Alaska Natives who are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe as defined by the Secretary of the Interior. Proof of tribal enrollment is required for Indian Preference consideration.