JOB SUMMARY: Supports the mental health and social-emotional well-being of children, families, and staff in Head Start programs. This role involves direct consultation, training, and collaboration with program staff and families to foster a culture of wellness, early identification of concerns, and access to appropriate services.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Program-Wide Mental Health Support

A. Promote a culture of mental health and wellness across the program

B. Collaborate with leadership to develop and implement mental health policies and procedures

C. Participate in strategic planning and quality improvement initiatives related to mental health

2. Consultation Services

A. Provide monthly on-site consultation services or coordinate with licensed professionals if unavailable

B. Support staff in creating nurturing, responsive relationships and positive learning environments

C. Assist in identifying and responding to staff and children’s mental health concerns, including trauma and behavioral issues

3. Family Engagement

A. Partner with families to support their mental health and well-being

B. Facilitate access to community mental health resources and referrals

C. Participate in family events and meetings to introduce mental health services and reduce stigma

4. Staff Wellness

A. Promote staff mental health through wellness initiatives and responsive support

B. Provide training and resources to help staff manage stress and build resilience

C. Screening and Referrals

D. Ensure timely mental health screenings for children and appropriate follow-up

E. Collaborate with education, health, and disability services to coordinate care

5. Compliance and Documentation

A. Maintain documentation in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and Alaska licensing regulations (7 AAC 10, 7 AAC 57, AMC 16.55)

Participate in audits, inspections, and evaluations as required by state and municipal authorities

NECESSARY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

1. Familiarity with Alaska Native/American Indian heritage and ability to communicate effectively with families in the CINHS program

2. Strong interpersonal and communication skills

3. Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams

4. Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse family backgrounds

5. Capacity to train and coach staff effectively

6. Commitment to confidentiality and ethical practice.

Please email jwilson@cinhs.net for an application. Or call 907-433-1600 for more information.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $88,504.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

We are required to have a CINHS application. We do not have an applicant tracking system. Email jwilson@cinhs.net for a PDF form.

Education:

Master's (Preferred)

Experience:

Mental health counseling: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

Counseling Certification (Required)

Ability to Commute:

Anchorage, AK 99507 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Cook Inlet Native Head Start

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