Mental Health Program Assistant

Telework Eligible: No
Division/Unit: MSOCS Residential Southwest / MSOCS FC Christensen

Working Title: Mental Health Program Assistant
Job Class: Mental Health Program Assistant
Agency: Direct Care and Treatment
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Direct Care & Treatment (DCT) is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCT does not participate in E-Verify.

This posting will be used to fill multiple permanent, part-time position. The shift is rotating which includes day, evening, and weekend hours. We also offer shift differential for hours between 6:00 pm and 6:00 am. This position is located in West St. Paul, MN.

Community Based Services is seeking a dependable and trustworthy Mental Health Program Assistant to join our team of caring individuals who take pride in the work and care they provide individuals. As a Mental Health Program Assistant you will play an important role in assisting the individual in achieving their goals. This includes understanding individual needs, supporting program plans and helping the individual reach their maximum potential.

Responsibilities Include
Participating in the development, refinement and implementation of individualized program plans that will help individuals safely achieve their goals.
Assisting individuals in becoming valued community members by balancing individual goals, supporting good choices and facilitating relationships with support networks and community organizations.
Promoting skill development and independence with the individual to maintain optimal mental health, physical health and wellness.
Assisting individuals with household management tasks to ensure the home is meeting licensure requirements, household needs and safety.
Medication administration, assistance and management.
Contributing to the safety and security of the home, individuals served and co-workers.

Minimum Qualifications
Must have a valid Driver's License

Knowledge Of
Behavior modification theory/techniques sufficient to implement behavior management components of treatment plans.
Mental illness sufficient to design and implement individual treatment plans, identify and de-escalate aggressive/ violent/ inappropriate behavior.
Therapeutic intervention techniques sufficient to de-escalate aggressive or violent behavior.
Laws, rules, regulations and policies governing treatment of mental illness and vulnerable adults sufficient to protect the rights of clients/residents.

Ability To
Perform basic health care procedures, such as taking vital signs and administering medications.
Observe, interpret and document client behaviors sufficient to provide information needed for evaluation and treatment planning.
Read, write and speak English sufficient to interpret, implement and evaluate individual treatment plans for clients living with mental illness.
Interact with clients sufficient to assist in delivery of support needs including transportation, engaged recreation and development of daily life skills.
Provide ongoing work direction and training to other staff.

Preferred Qualifications
Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.
Experience working with individuals living with serious and persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, and individuals on civil commitment.
Observe a mental health symptom or change in mental health status in the moment and utilize knowledge, skills and training of the individual, program/plans in place, and immediate safety concerns for all in the area to act quickly to de-escalate the situation in the least intrusive manner possible.
Working knowledge of motivational interviewing, trauma informed supports, person-centered thinking, and positive behavior supports.

Additional Requirements
To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.

REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS
Direct Care and Treatment will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.

About Direct Care And Treatment
Direct Care and Treatment is a highly specialized behavioral health system operated by the State of Minnesota. DCT operates treatment programs, residentia