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Northeast Kingdom Human Services
Mental Health Support Specialist - Newport, VT
Career Insights for Mental / Behavioral Health Counselor
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Based on Vermont 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.
$38,228 / year median in Vermont
+21% projected growth
Job Description
at Northeast Kingdom Human Services in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, United States Job Description Position Overview The Mental Health Support Specialist is a direct support member of the Front Porch Mental Health Urgent Care and Crisis Stabilization team. This role provides immediate, person-centered support to individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or crisis situations. Working alongside clinicians, peer specialists, and other team members, the Mental Health Support Specialist helps create a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic environment while supporting stabilization, safety, engagement, and access to care. This position plays a critical role in ensuring individuals feel supported, respected, and connected throughout their urgent care experience. Key Responsibilities
- Welcome and support individuals accessing urgent care services using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches.
- Orient clients to the program, services, and expectations of the urgent care environment.
- Conduct routine safety check-ins and monitor client well-being throughout their stay.
- Observe and document changes in mood, behavior, and presentation while communicating concerns to clinical staff.
- Assist individuals with immediate needs including food, hydration, comfort items, hygiene supplies, and environmental adjustments.
- Help maintain a clean, safe, and calming therapeutic environment that promotes dignity and recovery.
- Support clients with completing self-reported screenings and notify clinical staff of elevated concerns.
- Accurately document client interactions, observations, and interventions in the electronic medical record.
- Participate in team huddles, shift handoffs, and interdisciplinary communication.
- Support implementation of safety plans and reinforce coping strategies identified by clients and the care team.
- Utilize trauma-informed de-escalation techniques during periods of heightened distress.
- Encourage participation in services, groups, and care planning activities.
- Support discharge planning, referrals, and transitions to ongoing services and community supports.