Community Support Specialist

Washington County Mental Health Services Inc; Barre (VT); On-site; USD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington County Mental Health Services seeks a Community Support Specialist to provide direct wellness coaching, skill-building and peer support to children in home, community and school settings. This role helps kids recognize strengths, self-advocate and problem-solve while building confidence and positive relationships with families.

The position emphasizes individualized care, coping/ emotional regulation training, social skills support and participation in treatment planning with team

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college preferred.
• Experience in mental health, peer support or human services preferred.
• Strong written communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently with professional boundaries.
• Comfort with basic computer use and English records.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized wellness coaching to children in home, community and school settings.
• Teach coping and emotional regulation skills; support social skills.
• Encourage healthy routines and positive wellness habits.
• Document services and youth progress; participate in team meetings.
• Drive to catchment area with valid license and insured vehicle.

Skills

Wellness coaching

Coping strategies

Communication

Documentation

Independence

Driving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Basic computer skills

Electronic records familiarity

Job description

Community Support SpecialistWellness CoachWashington County Mental Health Services is seeking a Community Support Specialist to provide direct wellness, skill building and peer support to children in home, community and school settings. This role assists children in recognizing their strengths and empowers them to self-advocate and problem solve.Through personalized, hands-on support, this position helps children develop confidence and skills while cultivating positive relationships with them and their families. The Community Support Specialist helps children strengthen their sense of belonging; encouraging their engagement in school and participation in community activities.Summary of DutiesProvide individualized wellness coachingTasks as assigned by case managerTeach and practice coping and emotional regulation skillsSupport social skills, communication and problem-solvingEncourage healthy routines and positive wellness habitsParticipate in treatment/service planning and team meetingsDocument services and youth progressWCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and a generous paid time off package including flexible holidays and 12 vacation days in year one.The starting pay range for this position is $21.03 - $21.89 per hour.Summary of QualificationsHighschool diploma or equivalent, college preferred.Prior experience in mental health, peer support or human services preferred.Strong communication and written documentation skills.Ability to work independently while maintaining appropriate boundaries and professionalism.Basic computer skills and comfort completing electronic or written records in English.Due to the rural nature of the catchment area, a valid driver’s license, excellent driving record, and access to a safe, reliable, insured vehicle is required.About the AgencyFor more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is \"Where Hope and Support Come Together.\"