Student and Family Advisor – Case Management & Counseling

Vista; Westbrook (CT); On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Vista Life Innovations in Westbrook, CT is seeking a senior-level Student and Family Advisor in our Discover Program to support students and families during the transition to independent living in a supervised dorm setting.

This role provides individualized counseling and case management, coordinating goals and services in four main areas: social, emotional, vocational, and life skills, while serving as the liaison between students, families, and program staff.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Special Education, Social Work or related field plus one year of related experience.
• Candidates with a minimum of five years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record as defined by Vista.
• CPR, First Aid, and PMT certification, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Develop written program plans (IPPs and IPs) for each student/member that evaluate progress, determine goals, and identify service needs.
• Implement systems that support each student/member’s programmatic and individual goals across social, emotional, vocational, life skills, and community involvement.
• Serve as the primary liaison between students, families, and the Discover Program.
• Support and counsel families as they navigate their child’s first experience living independently, fostering collaboration and clear communication.
• Lead trainings, workshops, and informational sessions for families and staff.
• Maintain all necessary records and documentation with accuracy, efficiency, and clarity.

Education

Master's degree in Special Education, Social Work or related field

Bachelor's degree with five years of relevant experience may substitute

Tools

CPR certification

First Aid certification

PMT certification

Job description

If you\'re looking for a role where you can make a positive impact and build meaningful connections,we want to hear from you!

We offer Full Time, Part Time and Per Diem positions with flexible work hours available.

Position:Student and Family Advisor – Case Management & Counseling

Location: Westbrook, CT

Job Id:688

# of Openings:1

About Vista Life Innovations

For more than 35 years, Vista Life Innovations has supported adults with disabilities in building independent lives, finding meaningful work, and becoming active members of their communities. Our programs are grounded in a person-centered philosophy, meeting each individual where they are and supporting them toward greater independence at every stage of life.

The Role

Vista is seeking a Student and Family Advisor in our Discover Program to support students and families during the transition to independent living in a supervised dorm setting.

This senior-level counseling and case management role provides individualized support, coordinates student goals and service needs, and helps students build the skills needed for successful independence.

What You\'ll Do

• Develop written program plans (IPPs and IPs) for each student/member that evaluate progress, determine individual goals, and identify programmatic service needs.
• Implement systems that support each assigned student/member\’s programmatic and individual goals that address four main areas: social/emotional, vocational, life skills, and community involvement.
• Serve as the primary liaison between students, families, and the Discover Program.
• Support and counsel families as they navigate their child\’s first experience living independently, fostering collaboration, trust, and clear communication.
• Serve as the student\’s lead case manager, coordinating assessments, goals, documentation, and service needs such as medical, wellness, and financial needs.
• Lead trainings, workshops, and informational sessions for families and staff.
• Provide vocational counseling and direct instruction in such areas as social skills/cognitive development and medication, money management, and time management.
• Maintain all necessary records and documentation with accuracy, efficiency, and clarity.

What We\'re Looking For

• Master\'s degree in Special Education, Social Work or related field plus one year of related experience. Candidates with a minimum of five years of relevant experience and a Bachelor\'s degree may be considered in lieu of a Master\'s degree.
• Valid driver\'s license and maintain an acceptable driving record as defined by Vista.
• CPR, First Aid, and PMT certification, or ability to obtain required certifications within 90 days of hire.

Why Vista

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting students and families as they navigate the transition to independent living and helping students build confidence, independence, and the skills needed for successful community living.

We offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; company-paid life and AD&D coverage; long-term disability; a 403(b) with employer contributions and match; generous accrued PTO; an Employee Assistance Program; and a wellness incentive program. A full benefits summary is available upon request.

Salary: $58,000 annually
Location: Westbrook, CT | Status: Full-time, Exempt, Monday-Friday
Reports to: Director of Discover

Vista Life Innovations is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

4. Opportunities for Professional Growth

Empower Others to Thrive with Vista!

I believe that the work we do is important because everyone has a right and capability to live independently. Being able to work with our members to achieve their goals and grow their skills brings them one step closer to not only a life they want but havea right to live!

JACOB CAMPUTARO Life Skills Instructor