Thresholds - Niles, IL
posted 4 months ago
The Community Support Specialist - Residential (Adult Program) plays a crucial role in facilitating mental health rehabilitation interventions and supports for individuals with mental illnesses. This position is centered around helping members achieve their rehabilitative, resilience, and recovery goals within a Thresholds-operated residential program. The specialist is responsible for providing direct services to members through various means, including individual and group counseling, case management, job support, crisis intervention, and psycho-social rehabilitation services. Under direct supervision, the specialist gathers essential member information to assess service needs, make treatment recommendations, and identify existing natural resources and supports. A significant aspect of the role involves identifying risk factors related to relapse and developing prevention plans and strategies. The specialist may also assist in the development and review of Individual Treatment Plans (ITP), which necessitates face-to-face meetings with members or their guardians to establish goals, objectives, and the specific mental health services required. In addition to therapeutic support, the specialist teaches members essential independent living skills, such as housekeeping, shopping, meal preparation, and personal hygiene. They also work on developing functional, interpersonal, support system, and coping skills. The role includes providing support to members in collaboration with collateral sources, such as other agencies and medical providers, advocating for members, and assisting with problem-solving to help them access community resources. The specialist performs comprehensive member assessments alongside the team to identify mental health service needs and make treatment recommendations. They promote self-advocacy among members, ensuring that the Thresholds Service Plan addresses individual needs and includes actionable objectives. The specialist collaborates with inpatient hospital staff, maintains accurate logs and records, and participates in crisis intervention as necessary. Monitoring medication self-administration and ensuring compliance with documentation standards are also key responsibilities. The role requires maintaining a clean and safe living environment for members, attending required meetings, and completing documentation within specified time frames. The specialist may also be responsible for purchasing groceries and assisting with meal preparation, ensuring that the residence remains a safe and inviting space for all members.