Position Summary
The Mental Health Consultant supports the social-emotional well-being of children enrolled in the Head Start program. Working collaboratively with staff, families, and community partners, the consultant provides consultation, training, and behavioral support to promote positive mental health and ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards.
Essential Responsibilities
Child & Family Support
● Observe children in classroom settings and provide recommendations to support social-emotional development.
● Consult with teachers and families regarding behavioral, developmental, and emotional concerns.
● Assist with behavior support plans and referrals for additional evaluation or services.
● Participate in family conferences and multidisciplinary meetings as needed.
Staff Consultation & Training
● Coach staff on positive behavior support, classroom management, and trauma-informed practices.
● Provide professional development on early childhood mental health and social-emotional learning.
● Support crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies when appropriate.
Program Support
● Maintain required documentation of consultations, observations, referrals, and follow-up activities.
● Collaborate with education, disabilities, health, and community partners to coordinate services.
● Ensure mental health services meet Head Start Performance Standards and applicable regulations.
● Participate in program planning and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Education
● Master's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Child Development, or a related behavioral health field.
Licensure One of the following is preferred or required:
● LCSW
● LMHC
● LPC
● Licensed Psychologist
● LMFT
Experience
● Minimum of two years working with children from birth to age five.
● Experience consulting with families and early childhood education programs preferred.
● Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards preferred.
Knowledge & Skills
● Knowledge of infant and early childhood mental health and child development.
● Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
● Experience with trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.
● Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional ethics.
Physical Requirements
● Ability to observe children in classroom settings.
● Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
● Ability to travel between program locations as needed.
Pay
To be discussed at interview
Work Location: In person
