Mental Health Specialist II - Acute Behavioral Services

Job Overview

We’re currently hiring Mental Health Specialist 2 (MHS2) professionals to join compassionate and dedicated teams in communities across Minnesota. These direct care roles are ideal for individuals with experience in mental health support and behavior management.

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services—we’re a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response, and choice. Since 1976, we have been dedicated to meeting people where they are, working alongside them to provide person‑centered supports that allow people to live independently as possible. You’ll work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs.

With services in 15 states, our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference—one person, one voice, one choice at a time.

Our Acute Behavioral Services (ABS) group homes support individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs. Many of the people we serve have experienced frequent crises, hospital stays, or legal involvement. They may have a history of failed placements and need a highly structured environment to succeed. Our homes are specially designed for safety, and our approach is consistent, person‑centered, and focused on helping individuals reach their goals while maintaining safety for everyone.

Due to the challenging nature of this work, staff receive training in behavioral support and crisis response, including the use of manual restraints when necessary.

Please note:

This role may involve exposure to verbal aggression or difficult behaviors. We provide strong training and team support to help you succeed.

• Provide hands‑on care, assisting individuals with daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry, while fostering independence.
• Support with everyday tasks, including personal care, cooking, and transportation.
• Use proven strategies to manage behaviors and support mental wellness.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment, promoting a positive structured routine.
• Serve as a role model, encouraging progress, offering support, and celebrating milestones.

Those with experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Behavior Technician (BT/RBT), or in other caregiving or mental health roles.

• Experience:
  
  At least 3 years working with individuals who exhibit challenging behaviors (e.g., physical or verbal aggression, property destruction, or self‑injury) in a caregiving, direct support, or similar role.
• Age requirement:
  Must be at least 18 years old (21+ for certain sites).
• Education:
  
  High school diploma or GED.
• Passion for helping others:
  Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety) or developmental disabilities.
• Physical stamina:
  Ability to stay on your feet, walk, stand, and regularly lift up to 50 pounds.
• Transportation:
  Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Tech skills:
  Basic computer skills for documenting care and tracking progress.
• Communication:
  Strong reading, writing, and verbal communication skills are essential.

May be full‑time or part‑time, with a mixture of weekday and weekend hours. The specific number and times of scheduled hours will be established upon hiring. All persons in this position should be prepared to work weekends and holidays.

Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.