Mental Health Specialist II Acute Behavioral Services

Job Description

About the Program:
Our Acute Behavioral Services (ABS) group homes support individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs. Many of the people we serve have experienced frequent crises, hospital stays, or legal involvement. They may have a history of failed placements and need a highly structured environment to succeed.

Our homes are specially designed for safety, and our approach is consistent, person-centered, and focused on helping individuals reach their goals while maintaining safety for everyone. Due to the challenging nature of this work, staff receive training in behavioral support and crisis response, including the use of manual restraints when necessary.

Please note: This role may involve exposure to verbal aggression or difficult behaviors. We provide strong training and team support to help you succeed.

What You’ll Do:

As a Mental Health Specialist II, you’ll play a hands-on role in helping people lead more independent, stable lives.

• Provide Hands-On Care : Assist individuals with daily activities like personal care, meal prep, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry, all while fostering independence.

• Daily Support: Help with everyday tasks like personal care, cooking, and transportation.

• Behavioral & Emotional Support: Use proven strategies to manage behaviors and support mental wellness.

• Safe Environment: Keep the home clean and safe while promoting a positive, structured routine.

• Mentorship & Encouragement: Be a role model—encourage progress, offer support, and celebrate milestones.

Great fit for: Those with experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) , Behavior Technician (BT/RBT) , or in other caregiving/mental health roles.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

What You Bring to the Table:

• Experience: At least 3 years working with individuals who exhibit challenging behaviors (e.g., physical/verbal aggression, property destruction, or self-injury) in a caregiving, direct support, or similar role.

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old (21+ for certain sites).

• Education: High school diploma or GED.

• Passion for Helping Others: Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety) or developmental disabilities.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stay on your feet, walk, stand, and regularly lift up to 50 lbs.

• Transportation: Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

• Tech Skills: Basic computer skills for documenting care and tracking progress.

• Communication: Strong reading, writing, and verbal communication skills are essential. You’ll need them to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with internal and external team members.

If you have experience as a Behavioral Specialist, Behavioral Technician, or Mental Health Specialist , we want to hear from you!

At Dungarvin , we support each other and provide the training and tools you need to thrive. Join our team and help empower individuals to live their best lives.

Apply Today—Be Part of Something Truly Special!

Additional Information

Hours Worked
• May be full-time or part-time, with a mixture of weekday and weekend hours. The specific number and times of scheduled hours should be set upon hiring. All persons in this position should be prepared to work weekends and holidays.

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.

5/21

#DMNJ