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Family Support Specialist (FSS) or Family Support Specialist Assistant (FSSA) (Click for more detailed description)

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JOB DESCRIPTION:
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General Role Overview:

  • Primary Function: Assist families in using available resources effectively and provide training to families of children with developmental disabilities.
  • Support Focus: Work directly in family environments to support children’s development and help parents learn skills to be the primary agents of change.
  • Specific Responsibilities: Case management for Children’s Waiver Service (CWS) families, developing training and stimulation programs, and providing advocacy and emotional support.

Key Duties:

  1. Family Assessment & Referral: Conduct interviews, assess needs, and refer families to appropriate programs when necessary.
  2. Family Engagement: Regularly contact families and work flexibly to meet their needs, including evenings or weekends.
  3. Program Development: Design individualized developmental and stimulation programs for children, and work with families to set outcomes for education and progress.
  4. Training & Support: Instruct parents on behavior management, child development, and teaching techniques.
  5. Coordination & Advocacy: Help coordinate services with other agencies, advocate for the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities, and participate in community outreach efforts.
  6. Documentation & Reporting: Keep thorough records on family contacts, progress, and services provided.

Required Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with developmental disabilities, child development, assessment tools, behavior analysis, and legal rights of individuals with disabilities.
  • Understanding of the developmental model, normalization principle, and relevant services available locally and statewide.

Special Skills/Abilities:

  • Ability to implement transdisciplinary intervention programs and interpret assessments.
  • Skill in behavior analysis and data collection techniques.
  • Compassionate and objective counseling abilities.
  • Strong communication and rapport-building skills with families, professionals, and agencies.

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • A four-year degree in a related field (e.g., human services) or a combination of education and relevant experience is preferred.

Special Requirements:

  • Travel: Regular, flexible travel to meet with families, including evenings and weekends.
  • Training: Participate in an ongoing training program, including after-hours workshops.
  • Certification: Must complete the State of Montana’s Family Support Specialist certification after two years of employment.

This position offers an opportunity for a compassionate, flexible, and dedicated individual to make a meaningful impact on children and families affected by developmental disabilities.

 

 

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