Community Supports/Options Counselor Specialist

Location

Lawrence, MA | United States

Job description

Community Supports/Options Counselor Specialist Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Community Supports Manager, the Community Supports/Options Counselor Specialist assists individuals with disabilities in need of long term care services to make informed choices about resources, services and settings based on the consumer's needs and preferences; provides advocacy that helps create an environment that allows consumers to participate in all aspects of community living through information and referral, advocacy, skills training, peer counselling and transition.

What you will be doing:

•Provide non-biased counseling on the different options available for long term care. Respond in a timelymanner to consumer inquiries and questions.•Provide information and educate the consumer about public, private and informal services and programsthat are available. Offer support and guidance in making long term care decisions that will meet theconsumer's personal preferences and goals.•Assists consumers in navigating the complex system of state, federal and community services, programs,and benefits.•Supports consumers in the application processes of social security disability benefits,housing, MassHealth, assistive technology, home modifications, transportation, etc. andinforms the consumers on what to expect during the process.•Discuss and gather information about the consumer's medical, physical, emotional, and financialresources.•Engages in individual, group, or systems advocacy for the rights of the persons with disabilities.•Provides guidance and support through appeal processes.•Other duties as assigned.

Who we are looking for?

•Associate degree in a Human Service or a related field and/or relevant independent living experience•Relevant experience in the field of Health, Social Service, Education and/or Rehabilitation•Significant knowledge concerning MassHealth, as well as its programs, services, and eligibility criteria.•Proficient skills with technology including Microsoft 365, Teams, mobile devices, and applications.•Strategic thinking skills, active listening, interviewing, and advocacy skills.•Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent listening skills•Independent travel and reliable transportation required.•Ability to travel independently & reliable transportation required.

The Northeast Independent Living Program, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and encourages persons with disabilities, women, persons of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and veterans to apply for this position. NILP is an organization that advocates for an all-inclusive community free of communication, attitudinal, economic, and architectural barriers for all people with disabilities. As part of this commitment, NILP will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process, offer processes, or at any point after the start of employment. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Lynette McRae at 978-687-4288 or [email protected].

Job tags

Salary