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Working World
Family Support Specialist
Career Insights for Mental / Behavioral Health Counselor
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Based on Illinois data
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What they do
A Mental or Behavioral Health Counselor works with patients to treat mental health problems. Assesses patients and assists with diagnosis, counseling and crisis intervention. Consults with nurses, doctors and psychiatrists. May work with specific populations, such as youth, senior citizens or substance abusers, in group settings, facilities or hospitals.
$33,685 / year median in Illinois
+18% projected growth
Job Description
Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Family Support Specialist to join our organization's team. This role involves providing comprehensive support to families and children within high-risk populations, ensuring their safety, well-being, and access to essential services. The Family Support Specialist will serve as a vital link between families, community resources, and social service agencies, promoting positive outcomes through effective intervention, advocacy, and culturally sensitive practices. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, crisis management expertise, and a commitment to empowering families to thrive. Responsibilities Conduct thorough assessments of family needs, strengths, and risks to develop tailored support plans. Provide crisis intervention and management to address urgent safety concerns or behavioral health issues. Offer guidance on child welfare laws, family law, and childcare options to support informed decision-making. Collaborate with child protective services, behavioral health providers, and community organizations to coordinate services. Support families in navigating social services systems, including housing, healthcare, education, and employment resources. Maintain detailed documentation of client interactions, service plans, and progress notes with clarity and accuracy. Facilitate conflict management and behavioral health interventions within family units. Assist clients in developing coping strategies and resilience skills during high-stress situations. Deliver culturally competent services by working effectively with diverse communities and individuals with disabilities. Ensure compliance with safety protocols such as first aid and CPR when necessary. Skills Extensive knowledge of child protective services, child welfare practices, and family law. Proven experience in crisis intervention, crisis management, and high-risk population support. Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite for documentation and communication purposes. Strong understanding of behavioral health principles and social work methodologies. Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal—and active listening abilities. Ability to work effectively with children, families, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Bilingual proficiency is highly desirable to serve multilingual populations effectively. Experience working with individuals with disabilities or special needs is preferred. Skilled in conflict management techniques and client advocacy strategies. Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy. This paid position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable families while developing expertise in social services. We welcome applicants committed to fostering safe environments for children and supporting family stability through compassionate care.