Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services at UNITED COUNSELING SERVICE OF BENNINGTON COUNTY INC – Bennington, Vermont

Description: Why join UCS?Since 1958, United Counseling Service (UCS) has been dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals and families in our community. Through a wide range of programs, services, and educational opportunities, we strive to meet the diverse needs of those we serve. Our team includes professionals from various fields, including administration, clinical services, nursing, education, case management, psychiatry, and direct support, working across 17 facilities throughout Bennington County.As a proud affiliate of Vermont Care Partners—a statewide network of 16 non-profit community-based agencies—we deliver comprehensive mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental services across Vermont. We are currently seeking compassionate, motivated team players to join us in making a positive impact and building a stronger community.

UCS Offers Generous Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Generous paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short term and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Career development opportunities
• Free clinical supervision towards licensure
• Loan repayment and tuition assistance program
• Award winning worksite wellness program
• An inclusive workplace supported by an active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee.
• Rewarding experience making a difference in the community.

We believe a dynamic and inclusive workforce will strengthen our organization and enhance the services we provide. Therefore, it is our goal to hire a diverse workforce and cultivate a culture where our employees feel accepted and included, hold a valued place within our organization and are equally able to contribute to their fullest extent, assisting in fulfilling our mission of building a stronger community.

Direct Support Professional: Specialized Services

Objective / Purpose: Under the direction of the Program Coordinator, the Specialized Services Provider delivers individualized supports to a person with an intellectual disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder living in the community. This position is part of a 24/7 support team for a high-needs individual residing in one of the following settigs:

• Battelle Crisis Stabilization House
• An independent apartment
• A hotel or motel
• An Airbnb residence

Major Responsibilities

1. Direct Service

• Provide services in a respectful, friendly, and professional manner that supports client choice.
• Facilitate conversations and activities that match the individual’s interests.
• Offer guidance, companionship, emotional support, and supervision to ensure safety.
• Follow all Specialized Services regulations as outlined by Medicaid.
• Implement the individual’s treatment plan to deliver meaningful, specific supports.

Community & Daily Living Support

• Advocate on behalf of the individual with family, peers, and community members when needed.
• Introduce and connect the individual to community resources.
• Support participation in community events and activities.
• Teach and model safety skills for both home and community settings.
• Teach and model appropriate social and community behavior.

Health & Wellness Support

• Monitor emotional and physical well-being.
• Administer medications as appropriate.
• Assist with personal care as needed.
• Attend medical appointments and ensure follow-up is completed.
• Provide transportation to activities, appointments, and community events.
• Collaborate with clinical staff to support mental health needs.

Safety & Compliance

• Develop and follow safety plans for community outings.
• Understand Vermont public safety best practices.
• Support the individual in adhering to court conditions of release and/or Act 248 orders, when applicable.

2. Record Keeping

• Collect required data according to the individual’s ISA and behavior support plans.
• Complete all necessary Developmental Services and agency documentation, including:
  • Accurate daily and weekly timesheets
  • Expense sheets
  • Monthly documentation
• Submit all paperwork in a timely manner.

3. Networking / Team Collaboration

• Share relevant information with staff, professionals, and team members in a confidential and professional manner.
• Serve as an advocate and/or liaison for the individual, Developmental Services Division, and UCS.
• Participate actively in team meetings, care plan discussions, and other collaborative meetings as a problem-solver.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred:

• Direct Service experience preferred
• Experience with individuals with intellectual disabilities preferred

Skills

• Proficiency in using Microsoft Outlook for internal e-mail communication

Licenses/Certifications & Other

• Valid Driver’s License
• Reliable transportation to transport clients on occasion

Requirements: