Education and Employment Specialist

The Education and Employment Specialist is dedicated to assisting individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis in their journey toward recovery and successful integration into obtaining and maintaining competitive community-based employment that is consistent with their vocational goals. This role involves providing clients with personalized education and employment guidance, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, and fostering community partnerships to enhance individuals' overall well-being and prospects with early psychosis. This role involves working closely with clients, their families, and the multidisciplinary team.

This program serves Metro Atlanta area residents between the ages of 16-30 who have experienced their first episode of psychosis symptoms
starting within the past two years. The EIPP Team caseload is 25-30 Clients who are all cared for by the multidisciplinary team.

A potential candidate for this position should have experience as a supported education specialist, supported employment specialist, vocational specialist, therapist, and/or intensive case manager. Because of the nature of this job, staff would need to work directly in the community with employers, potential employers, educational personnel, and families. They connect with community partners and families and spend most of their time out of the office providing direct services to clients.

Essential Duties:
● Conduct thorough assessments of clients' educational backgrounds, skills, interests, and vocational goals.
● Develop personalized education and employment plans in collaboration with clients and the multidisciplinary team focusing on their strengths and aspirations.
● Provide guidance on educational options, vocational training programs, and career pathways suitable for clients' needs and capabilities.
● Providing job coaching and support to clients in obtaining and maintaining employment
● Offer individualized support to clients in developing and enhancing necessary skills for educational and workplace success, including communication, time management, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
● Assist clients in identifying and overcoming barriers to education and employment, such as stigma, anxiety, and practical challenges.
● Educate clients and their families about early psychosis, treatment options, and the importance of maintaining mental health while pursuing education and employment goals.
● Provide information about resources available to support individuals with early psychosis within the organization and the broader community.
● Collaborate with psychiatrists, therapists, social workers, and other mental health professionals to ensure a holistic approach to client's treatment and recovery.
● Coordinate with educational institutions, vocational training programs, employers, and community agencies to create supportive environments for clients.
● Establish and maintain relationships with local educational institutions, employers, and community organizations to develop employment opportunities, internships, and job placements suitable for individuals with early psychosis.
● Participate in outreach events and workshops to raise awareness about early psychosis and promote the integration of individuals into education and employment.
● Maintain accurate and up-to-date client interactions, progress, and outcomes records.
● Prepare regular reports on the effectiveness of educational and employment interventions and contribute to program evaluations.
● Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

● Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field, and work experience with adults with severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders
or any combination of education, experience, and training which provides the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
● At least two years of related experience and/or training in mental health is preferred.
● Experience working with individuals experiencing psychosis or severe mental illness, preferably in an early intervention setting.
● Experience providing education and vocational guidance to individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities.
● Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
● Knowledge of evidence-based practices for early intervention and psychosis treatment.
● Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and the demonstrated ability to work with flexibility and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.
● Self-starter who is detail-oriented, well-organized, and enjoys working in a collaborative environment.
● Ability to establish and maintain boundaries while building supportive relationships.
● Demonstrated ability to work sensitively with diverse people and communities.
● Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude toward clients and their families.
● Familiarity with community resources, educational systems, and employment opportunities.