Since 2019 Helping Hands Project Organization has focused on the unique needs of the vulnerable folks we serve and their families. Helping our those we serve find their path to healing is at the core of what we do in the community.  Our programs support development from a coaching model intended to empower caregivers. This opening is in our Outreach Counseling program. Outreach Counseling provides adult health counseling to very vulnerable families and Adult Family Home providers. These include families with very low income, a history of substance use disorder, unstable housing, and acculturative stress. Our counselors work in the home setting whenever possible, and or other natural environments. Practicum students should be open to working in the community and with the resources available to families and AFH providers in their own homes.

At an individual level, interns will be trained in home visiting safety and strategies for working with clients in Adult Family Homes in the community. When comfortable, they will have at least five families assigned to them based on their level of experience. Interns will help providers get familiarized with Behavior Support Plan and Crisis plans that would help steer the care provided to the patients. Common themes in the Enhanced Community Services include: anxiety and depression, behavioral issues and learning to remain housed in the community. Training will include one of two evidence-based practices, paid for by Helping Hands Project Organization.

Interns have the opportunity to look at data for the program and for the wider agency. They will also have the chance to collect data from patients participating in services. The Practicum Instructors will include them in wider community building or organizing efforts. We also include students in our marketing, fundraising, and relationship-building with key partners.

This agency is involved in legislative advocacy focused on community behavioral health. Participating in statewide meetings, opportunities to help shape policy by providing testimony or bill support, and helping communicate our clients' experiences via stories are all possibilities with Helping Hands Project Organization.

Coursework in diagnosis of both acute and persistent mental health disorders with the DSM, classwork, or practicum experience to include screening for suicidal ideation, identification of trauma symptoms, and evidence-based strategies for working with depression and anxiety. Understand the counselor's role in maintaining confidentiality, and as a mandated reporter. Further training will be provided particularly in understanding attachment and trauma in the early years, but also in addressing neglect and working in a wraparound team.

Coursework or practicum experience working in screening for substance use disorders and knowing how to refer clients for treatment.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training, ideally understanding collective liberation and anti-racism as a guide to practice.

Spanish-speaking services are provided to many first-generation immigrant families who speak Spanish. Other languages in demand are Ukrainian, Russian, Punjabi, and Arabic. A spoken language outside of English is not required, simply preferred.

Please send a resume and letter of interest to admin@helpinghands-project.org. Please share any and all experiences that you may have related to outpatient community-based services, de-escalation, substance use disorder, behavior support et al.