WellLife Network·Dix Hills, New York
Provide specialized care, supervision, and therapeutic support to youth in a residential setting to foster independence and emotional growth. Responsibilities include managing household duties, implementing service plans, and transporting residents to appointments.
The Child Support Professional is a compassionate and dedicated member of the Community Residence Program team, responsible for helping create a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents with serious emotional disturbances. Reporting to the Program Supervisor/Social Worker and the Program Director, this individual plays a vital role in providing direct care, emotional support, and guidance to residents through daily routines, structured activities, and meaningful relationships. The Child Support Professional works to promote positive behaviors, model healthy coping skills, and foster personal growth and independence in each youth. This position requires patience, consistency, and a trauma-informed approach that balances empathy with accountability while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and care. Essential Accountabilities 1. Individualized Resident Care: Provide personalized supervision and support to each resident, ensuring their safety, well-being, and emotional stability. 2. Behavioral Modeling: Consistently demonstrate positive behavior, professionalism, and respect, serving as a role model for residents and reinforcing the program’s core values. 3. Strength-Based Practices: Utilize strength-based and trauma-informed techniques to build trust, promote resilience, and help residents identify and use their personal strengths. 4. Skill Development: Teach and support residents in daily living, social, and independent living skills, documenting progress and celebrating accomplishments. 5. Therapeutic Environment: Contribute to a nurturing and structured milieu that encourages emotional regulation, positive social interaction, and personal growth. 6. Household Management: Promote a home-like environment by participating in household routines and responsibilities such as cleaning, meal preparation, and organization, alongside residents. 7. Service Planning: Participate in treatment and service planning meetings, contributing observations and insights to align care strategies with each resident’s goals. 8. Transport and Supervision: Accompany and transport residents to appointments, school, and recreational activities, maintaining safety and supportive engagement throughout. 9. Family Engagement: Encourage and facilitate family involvement when appropriate, maintaining a collaborative and supportive relationship with families to promote reunification and stability. 10. Counseling Support: Provide informal counseling, mentorship, and emotional support to help residents build coping strategies, communication skills, and confidence. 11. Medication Management: Follow established protocols to support residents in adhering to prescribed medication schedules under supervision of clinical staff. 12. Behavioral Support: Assist residents in managing their emotions and behaviors, intervening calmly and effectively during crises or conflicts, and documenting all incidents promptly. 13. Reporting and Documentation: Complete all required reports, logs, and documentation accurately and on time, maintaining compliance with program and OMH standards. 14. Residential Upkeep: Participate in maintaining a clean, organized, and safe living environment; coach residents in household responsibilities such as cleaning, laundry, shopping, and meal preparation. 15. Program Participation: Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and special events, including the annual Family Bonds Retreat, contributing to a positive and collaborative team culture. 16. Other Duties: Perform additional tasks as assigned, demonstrating flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to the mission of providing comprehensive, compassionate care to youth and families. 17. Compliance of the Collective Bargaining Agreement- all union staff are required to follow all work rules and regulations outlined in the current union Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) 18.
A high school diploma and a valid New York State driver's license are required. Experience working with children with emotional or behavioral needs is preferred, and an associate's degree is desired.
Market context
Child support professional roles in New York often see steady demand in residential, school, and community settings, especially for overnight and weekend coverage. These positions can be competitive because employers look for reliability, a valid New York State driver's license, and experience supporting children with emotional or behavioral needs; an associate's degree may also strengthen an application. If you are considering this role, review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, and be ready to highlight any direct child support experience and your availability for the Sun-Tues overnight schedule.