at Thresholds in Westmont, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Do you enjoy getting to know someone and coaching them towards achieving their goals related to work, relationships, and independent living? Community Support Specialists (CSS) with our Mindstrong/Emerging Adults Program provide mental health support to young adults experiencing serious mental health challenges where it makes the most impact – in their community.
Working as a Community Support Specialist is a unique learning opportunity. Through care planning, you will be an integral part of a client’s growth and recovery. You will remove barriers to mental healthcare through case management: connecting our clients with resources and helping them navigate complex systems. You will help clients strengthen daily living skills as you drive them to doctors’ appointments, to benefits offices, or to the grocery store. Each day will be a little bit different, requiring you to adapt to your client’s schedule, needs, and treatment plan. You will also have the opportunity to change the trajectory of mental health needs for young people and be part of a national innovative movement in services for young adults.
The culture at Thresholds is collaborative and supportive, providing you with the tools and resources you need for the best client care. Opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision, will deepen your knowledge and expand your clinical skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. This invaluable experience will set you up for a variety of career paths and growth opportunities within our organization.
To succeed in this role, you need:
- Passion for mental health advocacy with the youth and young adult population
- Patience and willingness to meet young people where they’re at
- Good writing skills
- Strong time management and organization
- To be at least 21 years old
- A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car
- Willingness to provide transportation to clients
Many education and experience paths are eligible for this role:
- High school diploma or GED certificate and 5 years of supervised clinical experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field
- Bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field and 2 years of supervised clinical experience
- Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field
What sets Thresholds apart:
- Competitive pay - Base Rate: $22.25 - 25.25 hourly / $43,670 - 52,510 annually
- Subject to increase based on education and experience
- Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
- Dental insurance, vision insurance, choice of 4 medical insurance plans
- 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
- Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
- Mileage reimbursement
- Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month)
- Public service loan forgiveness
- Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC)
- Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal
Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more.
One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.
Covid-19 Note: In the spirit of caring for one another and our community, please note that upon accepting an offer of employment from Thresholds, you will be required to share proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and booster upon eligibility. You may apply for a medical or religious exemption in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
