Job Description:

AWARE Mental Health ConsultantEmbark on this pivotal role as a VT Project AWARE Mental Health Consultant! Influence crucial decisions, offering essential consultation to LEA administration and MTSS teams. Shape student well-being through impactful strategies for screening, prevention, and intervention. Your role in developing protocols and referral pathways is crucial, fostering a comprehensive approach to student and family engagement. Join us in making a lasting difference for a brighter and healthier educational environment!This is an excellent opportunity to meet the growing need for mental health education and resources for students, guardians, faculty and the greater Caledonia Central Supervisory Union community.About NKHS:NKHS is a 501(c)(3) private not-for-profit organization operating with the purpose of promoting high quality, comprehensive community mental health programs in Vermont's beautiful Northeast Kingdom. Our mission is to empower individuals, families, and communities by promoting hope, healing, and support. NKHS is a Designated Agency contracted with the State of Vermont to provide the highest quality of service in the areas of adults with intellectualdevelopmental disabilities, children and youth with serious emotional disabilities, and adults with mental health and substance use challenges. We serve the populations of Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties through a wide variety of targeted programs for individuals of all ages. NKHS has over 450 employees providing case management, community and home supports, residential care, psychiatry, medication management, therapy, vocational supports, school based counseling, emergency care, and respite services. These services are provided annually to nearly 4,000 of our local community members, helping them overcome challenges and achieve health in mind, body, and spirit. Visit us at Check out Life in the NEK of VermontResponsibilities: Provides consultation to LEA administration, MTSS team, other relevant education staff on mental health concepts, screening, prevention and intervention approaches for student social, emotional, mental health and wellness, protocol and referral pathways development, and effective strategies to engage students and families. Participate in a districtcommunity leadership team (DCLT) that includes LEA administrators and leadership from other community service organizations to conduct a needs assessment, plan interventions across all levels of MTSS, and evaluate effectiveness of MTSS strategies and intervention through shared data and resources specific to the area. Provide mental health consultation on the selection, implementation, and continuous review of a district-wide universal screener for student social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Participate in ongoing needs assessments and the development of Universal, Targeted and Intensive practices and intervention protocols. Support the development of mental health and wellness related policies and procedures such as: universal screening assessments, referral protocols, suicide prevention, crisis intervention, behavioral threat assessment, staff trainings, etc.QUALIFICATIONS Master's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, or related field; licensure preferred. 5+ years of experience working in mental health systems; experience in school mental health is strongly recommended. Demonstrated knowledge of evidence based clinical practices and the following academic frameworks: Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS), social-emotional learning (SEL) Knowledge of research-based and best-practice interventions for social, emotional, behavioral mental health and wellness. Knowledge of culturally-responsive and developmentally-aligned restorative practices, trauma-responsive practices, and family engagement. Exceptional interpersonal skills and strong verbal and written communication skills. SALARY & BENEFITSStarting at $52,602 Plus based on education and experienceHealth and dental insurance.403b retirement plan with Agency contribution and match.Generous paid time off, 12 sick days and 12 paid holidays.Outstanding employee wellness programExceptional benefits package including low-cost medical and dental, short-long-term disability coverages, 403(b) retirement plan, life insurance, AFLAC, employee assistance program, generous paid time off, long-term care plan, and additional optional benefits