Bilingual Early Learning Mental Health Specialist

Overview

If asked to describe the culture at Metropolitan Family Services, we could do that in one word.
COMMUNITY
! Reflected in both our internal culture as well as through the services we provide, community is at the heart of all we do.

Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) empowers families to learn, to earn, to heal, to thrive. Part mentor, part motivator, part advocate, since 1857, Metropolitan Family Services has been the engine of change that empowers families to reach their greatest potential and positively impact their communities. Are you looking to have an impact on more than just a company’s bottom line? Then we’d love to hear from you!

We are currently looking to fill a Bilingual Early Learning Mental Health Specialist at our DuPage Center
.

$3,000 Sign-on Bonus for first time employees with MFS! ($1,500 on the first paycheck and $1,500 after 6 months of employment).

SALARY: The average starting salary for this position will fall in the range of $56,000 to $70,000 annually. Where candidates fall in this range will be based on skill and experience level.

Of note, is that candidates possessing an LCSW or LCPC may be considered for a possible salary up to $77,000.

• Identify and create training and professional development opportunities to better support individualized learning and improve teaching practices in the mental health domain.
• Observe classroom environment and provide feedback regarding teacher practices to teaching staff, as well as the Education Coach, Family Support Worker, and Site Supervisor.
• Provide supports for effective classroom management and positive learning environments; supportive teacher practices; and strategies for supporting children with challenging behaviors and other social, emotional, and mental health concerns.
• Support the creation of the Student Support Plan and provide assistance in implementing strategies to support children with mental health and social emotional concerns.
• Assist in the implementation of policies to limit suspension and prohibit expulsion.
• Assist staff in identifying prevalent child mental health concerns, including internalizing, as well as externalizing problems.
• Assist parents and staff in accessing mental health interventions and understanding the importance of mental health and social emotional wellbeing.
• Assure all sites adhere to strictest standards of health and safety.
• Provide active supervision to ensure the safety of Head Start/Early Head Start children while in the classroom, during transitions, at time of transportation, and while on the playground. Ensure that no child shall be left alone or unsupervised.
• Serve as an advocate for children and families through participation in IEP and/or IFSP development, including transitioning from an IFSP to an IEP when applicable. Monitor and provide feedback on individual plans for children suspected of disabilities or with certified plans.
• Assist in developing supportive relationships between teacher, child, and family within the context of culture and community.
• Plan and facilitate training and technical assistance in the form of individual coaching sessions, site team meetings, and whole program professional development opportunities.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Ability to complete Orientation to the Illinois Model of Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation within 1 year of employment.
• A demonstrated ability to engage in reflective practices and maintain a consultative stance.
• Advanced writing and communication skills, knowledge of data analysis, and reflective leadership.

• LSW or LCPC licensure preferred.
• Must be Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Master’s degree in social work, Counseling, Psychology, Child Development with additional education in Mental Health or related field.
• A minimum of 2+ years of experience in areas related to infant and early childhood development and mental health.
• Must be able to complete Orientation to the Illinois model of Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation within 1 year of employment.

• Satisfactorily pass all relevant screenings and criminal background checks.