Mental Health Specialist II - Acute Behavioral Services

Mental Health Specialist II Join our mission‑driven team at Dungarvin and make a lasting impact every day. Since 1976, we have been dedicated to meeting people where they are and providing person‑centered supports that enable individuals to live as independently as possible. In this role you will work directly with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities, or complex medical and mental‑health needs. Why Dungarvin? Fixed Starting Rate: $24/hr Retention Bonus: Eligible for up to $2000 bonus Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Vision, Dental (for full‑time employees), Supplemental Insurance, Life Insurance, and more Retirement Savings: 401(k) with up to a 3% employer match Paid Time Off: Increases with tenure; PTO donation options available Employee Perks: National brand discounts, referral program, and access to Tapcheck (earn 50% of pay before payday) Growth & Development: Career growth opportunities, paid training, and mentorship Mileage Reimbursement: for travel Paid Training and Orientation: Training to equip you to handle challenging behaviors Job Description About the Program: Our Acute Behavioral Services (ABS) group homes support individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs. Residents often experience frequent crises, hospital stays, or legal involvement, and require a highly structured environment to succeed. Our homes are specially designed for safety, following a consistent, person‑centered approach that promotes safety while helping individuals reach their goals. Staff receive training in behavioral support, crisis response, and, when necessary, the use of manual restraints. What You’ll Do Provide direct support to individuals with intensive behavioral and mental‑health needs, using person‑centered approaches focused on safety, skill building, and positive engagement. Follow behavior support plans, treatment plans, crisis‑prevention strategies, de‑escalation techniques, and trained manual restraint procedures. Maintain a clean, safe, structured living environment; assist with daily living skills, household tasks, activities, transportation, and community engagement. Accurately document services, behavioral observations, health concerns, and program activities using electronic systems (T‑logs, Therap, health tracking). Monitor behavioral changes, identify escalation indicators, and communicate proactively with supervisors and team members during crisis or safety situations. Support family and personal contacts, assist with appointments, medication administration tasks (when allowed), and follow all medical and nutrition plans. Participate in team meetings, provide feedback on individuals’ needs, and help train new staff while modeling professional behavior. Maintain home safety, follow emergency procedures, and ensure compliance with protocols and individual support plans. Qualifications High school diploma or GED. At least 3 years of experience working with individuals with chronic and severe mental illness, or a degree in a mental‑health–related field. At least 18 years of age (some programs require 21 years). Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance. Basic computer skills and ability to use electronic documentation systems. Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to safely manage physically demanding situations. Skills & Abilities Follow behavior support plans, treatment plans, functional assessments, and person‑centered plans. Use crisis prevention, de‑escalation, redirection, and manual restraints as trained. Communicate clearly and professionally in writing and verbally, including documentation. Work effectively in crisis situations and exercise sound judgment. Collaborate with team members and external partners (case managers, law enforcement, mental health professionals). Demonstrate strong problem‑solving, consistency, time‑management, and independent prioritization skills. If you’re passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you. At Dungarvin, we support one another and provide the training and tools you need to succeed. Apply today and be part of something truly special. We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dungarvin