Mental Health Support Specialist

Job Title: Mental Health Support Specialist 

Job Type: Full Time

Job Classification: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Jugan Shelter Manager

Summary/Objective

Under the supervision of the Shelter Manager, the Mental Health Support Specialist (MHSS) provides trauma-informed behavioral health support, outreach, engagement, care coordination, and resource navigation services to individuals experiencing homelessness residing at Jugan Emergency Shelter. The MHSS works with shelter guests identified through the intake process as having behavioral health needs by connecting them with Novus Health and other community behavioral health providers, providing ongoing follow-up, and supporting engagement in services.

In addition to Mental Health Board grant responsibilities, the Mental Health Support Specialist supports the daily operations of the shelter by promoting a safe, trauma-informed environment through client engagement, crisis intervention, life skills programming, management of in-kind donations, and coordination of client support services. The position primarily operates during daytime business hours to facilitate client follow-up and coordination of care; however, flexibility for occasional late afternoon, evening, or weekend coverage may be required to support client engagement and continuity of care.

Key Responsibilities

Behavioral Health Support

• Provide outreach and engagement to shelter guests referred through the Healthy Shelter Project.
• Meet with referred clients to discuss behavioral health resources and available services.
• Connect clients to Novus Health and other behavioral health providers and assist with scheduling and coordinating appointments.
• Provide ongoing follow-up with clients to encourage engagement in behavioral health services and address barriers to care.
• Assist clients in navigating behavioral health, medical, housing, employment, and other community resources.
• Coordinate services with shelter staff, nursing staff, behavioral health providers, case managers, and community partners.
• Accompany clients to appointments when appropriate to promote successful engagement with services.
• Participate in regular case consultation with nursing staff, behavioral health providers, and shelter staff.
• Complete timely and accurate documentation, referrals, engagement notes, progress notes, and outcome tracking in Bell Data and other required systems.
• Assist with collection and reporting of program outcomes in accordance with Mental Health Board requirements.

Client Engagement & Shelter Support

• Provide crisis intervention, de-escalation, emotional support, and stabilization services for shelter guests experiencing behavioral health or situational crises. 
• Build positive, supportive relationships with shelter guests using a trauma-informed, client-centered approach. 
• Facilitate life skills, wellness, and psychoeducational activities that promote stability, independence, and successful housing outcomes. 
• Coordinate and manage in-kind donations for shelter clients, including clothing, hygiene items, household goods, and other donated resources. 
• Assist clients with obtaining linens, hygiene supplies, clothing, transportation assistance, and other basic needs. 
• Actively engage with clients throughout the shelter to identify needs and encourage participation in services. 
• Assist in maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming shelter environment.

Administrative & Program Responsibilities

• Participate in regular case consultation with nursing staff, behavioral health providers, and shelter staff.
• Accompany clients to appointments when appropriate to promote successful engagement with services or assist them with navigating the appointment.
• Perform administrative duties including answering phones, answering doors, filing, photocopying, responding to emails, and maintaining required logs.
• Utilize all PPCS-required database systems and documentation platforms.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and supervision.
• Regular attendance and punctuality are required to perform this job effectively.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shelter Manager or as dictated by program needs. 

Qualifications

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED required and;
• Two years’ experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness substance abuse, severe and persistent mental illness, dual diagnosis, homelessness, and/or HIV/AIDS.
• Preferred: Associates or Bachelors degree in social work, psychology, counseling, human services, sociology, or a related field.
• Experience providing client support, crisis intervention, conflict resolution, housing stabilization, or community-based services preferred.

Core Competencies 

• CPR and First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).
• MANDT Training 
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and professional boundaries.
• Ability to effectively engage diverse populations with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
• Knowledge of HIPAA/privacy standards and professional boundaries are required.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately during crises and emergencies.
• Ability to accurately document client interactions, incidents, and service activities

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Work Environment

This position operates primarily at Jugan Emergency Shelter located within PPCS Community Campus. Mental Health Support Specialists are generally working within Jugan Shelter. This position requires regular movement throughout the shelter to engage clients, monitor client well-being, observe shelter activities, and respond to client needs and crisis situations. The position also includes documentation, coordination of services, and attendance at staff meetings. 

Other Duties

This job description is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may evolve based on organizational needs and growth.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not currently have any supervisory responsibilities