Student Assistance Worker

The SAP Case Worker for Northwest Area School District works with school personnel to help identify students who may need MH Services. They meet with identified at risk students to assess their needs. They may refer for services directly or attempt to resolve the problem with brief supportive counseling. They also act as liaisons with the school for students in treatment. This workforce member has access to the complete chart for cases requiring workers involvement. QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION The position requires a Bachelor's Degree in social work, psychology, or a related field from an accredited college or university. The individual should possess a thorough knowledge of professional casework principles; knowledge of the principles and methods of community organization; the ability to work effectively with adults, adolescents, and children; effective oral and written communication skills; and a working knowledge of the philosophy, concepts, mandates and operation of community mental health services. DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for provision of Student Assistance Programs to area school districts with direct accountability to the Director, Student Assistance Program. Obtain SAP training via State Certified SAP Trainer to become familiar with the SAP concept and process. Establish positive relationships with SAP Core Team members as well as administrative personnel. Attend SAP Core Team meetings as required by school policy. Assist Core Teams in developing and revising school policies and procedures as required by SAP mandates. Assist Core Team members in the identification of Students-At-Risk via staffing and information gathering at SAP meetings. Assist Core Team members and school administration in establishing protocol to be used when Students-At-Risk have been identified. Set up consultation and assessment for Students-At-Risk, family members, and school personnel. Offer supportive counseling to Students-At-Risk and their families as required. Refer Students-At-Risk and families for appropriate community based mental health services as necessary. Provide follow-up monitoring via school visits, consults with primary therapists and family members. Provide appropriate measures for crisis intervention and prevention to the districts served. Provide appropriate measures in dealing with suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention to the districts served. Provide home visits as required. Responsible to complete necessary paperwork in a timely fashion. Attend meetings and conferences and participate on committees as designated by the supervisor. Assure the safety and security of facilities used by staff and follow safety procedures. Complete 12 hours of continuing education programs annually to develop and expand needed skills. Able to perform a variety of duties in a stressful environment with frequent and unpredictable changes in the daily work schedule. Able to demonstrate application of verbal de-escalation principles. Able to drive unassisted and maintain a valid driver's license. Perform other reasonable and related duties as assigned.