Education and Employment Specialist in Clarkston, Georgia at POSITIVE GROWTH INC

Location: Metro Atlanta, GA (Community-Based)
Organization: Positive Growth Inc.

Positive Growth Inc. is a leading provider of residential and community-based mental health services, committed to improving the lives of children, youth, and families through culturally responsive, strength-based care.

The Early Intervention Psychosis Program (EIPP) is a grant-funded Coordinated Specialty Care program supported by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). The program serves young adults ages 16–30 in the Metro Atlanta area who have experienced their first episode of psychosis within the past two years.

EIPP uses a team-based, recovery-oriented model that integrates therapy, psychiatry, case management, peer support, and supported education and employment services to help individuals achieve stability and success in all areas of life—including housing, education, and employment.

The Education & Employment Specialist plays a vital role on the EIPP multidisciplinary team by supporting clients in achieving their educational and career goals. Using evidence-based supported employment and education practices, this role helps individuals successfully pursue school, training, and competitive employment aligned with their strengths and interests.

This is a highly community-based position that requires frequent interaction with clients, families, employers, and educational institutions. Most work takes place in the field rather than in the office.

This position is Full-time but may be combined with other program roles to create a full-time opportunity.

• Conduct assessments of clients’ educational history, skills, interests, and vocational goals
• Develop individualized education and employment plans in collaboration with clients and the clinical team
• Align plans with client strengths, preferences, and recovery goals

• Provide job coaching and ongoing support to help clients obtain and maintain employment
• Guide clients in exploring educational opportunities, vocational training, and career pathways
• Support development of workplace and academic skills (communication, time management, problem-solving)
• Assist clients in overcoming barriers such as stigma, anxiety, and access challenges

• Educate clients and families about early psychosis, recovery, and the importance of education and employment
• Provide information on available services and community resources

• Work closely with psychiatrists, therapists, case managers, and peer specialists to support holistic care
• Coordinate with schools, training programs, employers, and community partners
• Support integration of education/employment goals into overall treatment planning

• Build relationships with local employers, colleges, training programs, and community organizations
• Develop job opportunities, internships, and placement pathways for clients
• Participate in outreach events and community education efforts

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in Electronic Health Records (EHR)
• Track client progress, employment outcomes, and program metrics
• Prepare reports to support program evaluation and grant requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience in mental health, preferably with individuals experiencing serious mental illness or psychosis
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills
• Ability to work independently in community-based settings

• Experience in supported employment, supported education, vocational services, or case management
• Experience working with early psychosis or Coordinated Specialty Care programs
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in early intervention and recovery-oriented care
• Familiarity with community resources, educational systems, and workforce development programs
• Established connections with local employers or educational institutions

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (community-based role)
• Ability to pass background and DMV checks
• Proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Microsoft Office
• Ability to work with diverse populations in a culturally responsive manner
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus

• Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental approach
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to build relationships while maintaining professional boundaries
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, team-based environment

This position is primarily community-based and requires travel throughout the Metro Atlanta area. Duties may include visiting client homes, schools, job sites, and community agencies.

Positive Growth Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, gender, religion, or any protected class. We maintain a drug-, alcohol-, and smoke-free workplace.

Join a passionate, multidisciplinary team dedicated to helping young people recover, grow, and build meaningful futures. This role offers the opportunity to directly impact lives while gaining experience in an innovative, evidence-based mental health program.