Qualified Mental Health Professional- Youth and Community Impact Specialist

Service Area: Alleghany, Ashe, Wilkes, and Watauga Counties, NC
Population Focus: Youth + Families

Key Responsibilities (Client Care, Systems, and Accountability)

Direct Service & Family Engagement

• Provide community-based mental health support primarily to youth and families in home, school, and community settings.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with youth/caregivers while maintaining boundaries and professionalism.
• Deliver evidence-informed interventions focused on stabilization, skill-building, resilience, and family functioning.

Planning, Coordination, and Follow-Through

• Participate in service planning and support care coordination with schools, family supports, and community partners (within scope).
• Support youth/families with practical navigation steps that help them stay engaged in services.

Crisis Support & Safety

• Respond appropriately during high-stress moments using de-escalation and safety planning.
• Escalate concerns quickly through the proper supervision/clinical chain (no “silent” crises).

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, ethical documentation aligned with program requirements and privacy laws.
• Protect confidentiality and follow HIPAA standards—especially critical in small communities.

How We Work (Non-Negotiables)

• Progress notes due within 24 hours of each service contact.
• Timesheets submitted weekly.
• Use approved systems only (no PHI in personal email, texts, or personal device storage).
• Communicate early if something threatens follow-through (weather, travel delays, family no-shows).

What Rural Service Delivery Means (Read This Before Applying)

Working in Alleghany, Ashe, Wilkes, and Watauga means:

• Travel is built-in. You’ll drive between towns, schools, and homes—sometimes with long gaps between appointments.
• Weather and distance affect scheduling. Snow/ice, school closings, and mountain travel can change a day fast.
• Resources can be limited. You will often problem-solve creatively and collaborate closely with schools/community supports.
• Privacy is more sensitive. In small towns, you may run into clients or their family—professionalism matters.
• Tech isn’t always reliable. Spotty service happens. You must still meet documentation standards.

Required Qualifications

• Meets NC requirements for Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP/QP criteria as applicable).
• Background in behavioral/mental health, social services, or related human services field.
• Experience working with youth and families preferred.
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license.

Who Thrives in This Role

You’ll do well if you are mission-driven, structured, calm under pressure, and you don’t need someone to chase you for documentation or follow-through.

Pay: $27.00 - $37.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Professional development assistance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person