Position Overview:
The Day Treatment Services Assistant works directly with children and adolescents in a day treatment facility during weekend programming. This role is crucial for ensuring a safe, supportive, and structured therapeutic environment. The Assistant aids in implementing therapeutic activities and helps clients develop essential skills to meet their treatment goals. Additionally, this position is responsible for providing operational support to ensure a safe, structured, and engaging experience for Saturday Academy participants.
Key Responsibilities
Client Care and Support
- Assist in the implementation of therapeutic activities, including lesson planning.
- Observe and respond appropriately to the emotional and behavioral needs of individual clients and the group as a whole.
- Assist with de-escalation techniques during client crises.
- Help day treatment specialists and clients meet daily expectations and treatment goals.
- Maintain client confidentiality and appropriate professional boundaries, refraining from dual relationships with clients.
- Escort clients to and from the restroom as needed.
- Assist with preparing and serving meals for clients.
- Promote a safe, structured, and positive environment for all participants.
Safety, Transportation & Logistics
- Ensure the health and safety of all clients in your care.
- Transport clients to and from the facility using a company-provided vehicle.
- Assist with the loading and unloading of clients from the transport vehicle.
- Record check-ins with clients and maintain a good driving record during transport.
- Communicate barriers to picking up clients in a timely manner to the appropriate staff, documenting the barrier.
- Help coordinate participant group assignments to maintain appropriate supervision ratios.
- Support efficient participant check-in and check-out procedures.
Documentation and Communication
- Assist day treatment specialists with taking notes on client behaviors during interventions.
- Document client incidents in an incident report and also add them to the contact log.
- Review treatment plans and daily interventions with the Day Treatment specialist.
- Communicate effectively with coworkers regarding supporting tasks.
- Maintain professional communication with parents, guardians, and staff.
- Attend daily team meetings, huddles, and weekly one-on-one sessions with the program director.
- Follow the appropriate chain of command during a crisis.
- Become an advocate for the Bucks Positive Initiative Program.
Operational & Facility Maintenance
- Assist with inventory, supplies, and preparation for weekly programming.
- Ensure that the group room is free of trash.
- Assist with the overall cleanliness of the facility.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
- Some college experience is preferred.
- Experience in providing appropriate care and guidance to clients, helping them develop skills and achieve treatment goals.
- Experience working with children, youth programs, behavioral health, education, recreation, or community organizations preferred.
Skills, Training & Licensing
- A valid driver's license is required for client transportation purposes.
- Must maintain a good driving record.
- Preferred certifications: First Aid/CPR.
- Must complete CARF and competency training within the first six months of employment and annually thereafter.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor program activities.
Working Hours
- Part-Time (6 to 12 hours per week)
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Work Expectations
- Be available to support Saturday Academy operations.
- Maintain a positive, youth-centered approach when interacting with participants and families.
- Demonstrate reliability, professionalism, flexibility, and excellent communication.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth within the organization.
Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
