Title: Behavioral Specialist (Applied Behavioral Specialist - ABSS)
Department: Psychology
Reports: Director of Psychology
Location: Psychology Department, NY
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Job Summary:
The ABSS position involves providing on-going counseling and support to adults with developmental disabilities within
Eihab’s group home / day program settings. The ABSS will visit the group homes/programs within their caseload to
provide in-person counseling and support and help individuals manage maladaptive behaviors they may experience. They
will also conduct observations to ensure behavior plans are followed accordingly. Additionally, the ABSS will
implement/update behavior plans for individuals based upon behavioral documentation. This position also includes
providing on-going staff training and observations to ensure behavior plan is followed, as well as holding interdisciplinary
team meetings for individuals as needed. The ABSS will need to manage the behavioral needs of their caseload and
provide behavioral interventions to best serve the individuals.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Experience providing counseling and rapport building
Must possess excellent writing and organizational skills.
Requires strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively as a team.
Ability to work well under pressure and to prioritize tasks are essential
Strong Interpersonal skills
Detail oriented and strong writing skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality / HIPPA regulations
Willing to help others when crisis arises and intervene when maladaptive behaviors arise
Anticipate and meet deadlines, complete assignments with consistent accuracy
Experience working with OPWDD population such as individuals with autism or intellectual disabilities
(preferred)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook)
Authorization to work in the US
Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle
Essential Responsibilities:
Visit the group homes/programs within caseload to provide in-person counseling support and behavioral management,
as well as observations to ensure behavior plans are followed accordingly.
Ensure OPWDD compliance in assigned houses (i.e. behavior plan revisions, consent forms, HRC approval, book
reviews, etc.)
Participate in OPWDD State Audits to provide information and answer any questions/concerns regarding behavior
plan/protocols
Conduct Morning Observations at times to ensure compliance and that quality care is provided within
residences/programs.
Review, calculate, and analyze behavioral data for individuals in caseload and write summaries/progress notes for
each individual in caseload, with additional summaries counseling memos as needed.
Provide behavioral summary/updates on individuals prior to psychiatry appointments participate during psychiatry
appointments as needed.
Maintain communication with management team within caseload and address any behavioral concerns or needs.
Conduct and update Functional Behavioral Analysis (FBA) as needed
Complete and regularly review and update behavior plans/protocols/baselines to meet individuals’ needs
Conduct effective, interactive trainings on behavior plans/protocols for individuals as well as accurate documentation;
conduct new hire orientation for the department
Effectively lead and schedule interdisciplinary team meetings (IDT) or Clinical Meetings as needed based on the
individuals’ needs. ABSS will write the meeting minutes/summary for these meetings.
Review Rights Restrictions for Individuals assess fade-out plans semi-annually at minimum with team and Human
Rights Committee, ensure paperwork is completed and provided for review
Review intake packets for any residential vacancies and participate in screenings/dinner visits to assess if the
candidate’s needs can be met
Research treatment options for specific individuals and specific diagnoses
Conduct key assessments annually
Conduct other duties/assessments/counseling summaries as needed/requested by supervisor / senior management
On-Call as Needed
Qualifications:
Master Degree in Psychology or related field is required