Creative Change Counseling, Inc. (CCC) is a dedicated group of behavioral health providers committed to supporting individuals facing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges.

Now Hiring: Youth Behavioral Support Specialists (Part-Time/Per Diem)

Primary Purpose of Job:

The Youth Behavioral Support Specialist provides hands-on behavioral and recreational support to youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), primarily those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Working within the After School Respite (AAS) program, the Specialist ensures the physical and emotional safety of youth, follows individualized behavior support plans, and facilitates engaging, structured activities.

This role is ideal for individuals with experience supporting youth who may display maladaptive behaviors and who can foster a supportive, inclusive environment

Principle Duties & Responsibilities:

• Supervise and engage youth with developmental disabilities in 1:2, 1:3, or small group settings during the after-school program.
• Implement individualized behavior support plans as directed by supervisors or clinical staff.
• De-escalate and manage challenging behaviors using safe, non-restrictive techniques and trauma-informed approaches.
• Plan and lead recreational, sensory, and enrichment activities that are age-appropriate and inclusive.
• Encourage social interaction, communication, and cooperative play among peers.
• Support youth with activities of daily living (e.g., toileting, hygiene, snack routines) as needed.
• Maintain a safe, structured environment by reinforcing routines, expectations, and positive behavior supports.
• Provide transportation from schools or designated locations to the respite program when assigned.
• Complete timely and accurate documentation, including attendance, incident reports, and behavior tracking logs.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with caregivers, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Use visual schedules, social stories, and other supports to enhance predictability and independence.
• Keep program areas clean, organized, and stocked with activity materials.
• Attend staff trainings, team meetings, and required professional development sessions.
• Protect confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and agency policies at all times.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equity, inclusion, and cultural responsiveness in all aspects of service delivery.
• May be assigned to support Open Play or additional recreation-related tasks to assist with the daily operation of the Kids Gym and/or Teen Center, as needed.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required); associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferred).
• At least 2 years of experience working with children or adolescents with IDD, preferably autism.
• Valid NJ driver’s license and reliable transportation (required for transportation duties).
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Strong interpersonal skills, emotional regulation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to engage youth in meaningful activities and respond to behavioral challenges with empathy and professionalism.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to remain physically active throughout the 4-hour shift, including standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting.
• Ability to lift and/or assist youth weighing up to 50 pounds with transfers or mobility support, as needed.
• Must be able to engage in physical play, recreational activities, and support youth during transitions or behavioral incidents.
• Ability to drive a program vehicle and safely assist youth during entry and exit if assigned transportation duties.
• Must be able to respond quickly in the event of an emergency or behavioral escalation.
• May occasionally be exposed to disruptive or aggressive behavior.

Disclaimer Statement: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

If you are PASSIONATE about making a difference in the lives of youth facing mental health challenges, we invite you to apply today and join our dedicated team at Creative Change Counseling, Inc.

Please send resumes to: Shara D. Richardson - s.richardson@creativechangeinc.org