Mental Health Support Specialist

Mental Health Support Specialist

The Mental Health Support Specialist provides direct individual and/or group mental health support to students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, neurodivergence (e.g., autism, ADHD), and co‑occurring mental health diagnoses in the college environment. The specialist plays a key role in creating an affirming, inclusive, and supportive environment for neurodivergent students and others seeking social‑emotional growth. This position promotes student well‑being and supports students as they acquire additional independent living and self‑advocacy skills.

Working collaboratively across campus, the Specialist partners with students, faculty, staff, and families to empower students in achieving their personal, academic, and social goals.

• Student Support and Empowerment
  • Provide individual and group‑based mental health intervention that centers student voice and choice.
  • Empower students to develop self‑regulation, coping, and self‑advocacy skills.
  • Respond compassionately to students experiencing stress, overwhelm, or crisis and assist in connecting them with appropriate campus or community resources.
  • Maintain accurate, confidential records aligned with ethical standards and Curry College policy.
• Program Development and Facilitation
  • Design and facilitate wellness workshops, discussion groups, and community events that promote resilience, mindfulness, and connection.
  • Collaborate with the Neurodiversity Center for Excellence staff to integrate social‑emotional learning and well‑being practices throughout academic and residential programs.
  • Regularly gather student feedback to adapt programming for inclusivity and accessibility.
  • Develop innovative initiatives that celebrate neurodiversity and disability, and promote mental health awareness across campus.
• Collaboration and Campus Partnership
  • Work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and campus partners (e.g., counseling center staff) to support whole‑student development and success.
  • Serve as a connector between the NCE, Counseling Services, Student Affairs, and Residential Life to ensure wraparound student support.
  • Participate in student success meetings, wellness coalitions, and campus‑wide training on inclusive support practices.
  • Contribute to professional learning opportunities that advance understanding of neurodiversity, universal design, and trauma‑informed care.
• Administrative and Operational Responsibilities
  • Maintain documentation of student engagement and program outcomes in a secure, organized manner.
  • Support data collection and reporting that highlights the positive impact of NCE initiatives on student wellness and belonging.
  • Participate actively in departmental meetings, planning sessions, and college‑wide events that advance NCE goals.
  • Champion the mission of the Neurodiversity Center for Excellence by promoting inclusive excellence and equitable access to support.

• Respect and maintain confidentiality, parameters of operation, professional protocols, and individual privacy.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or their designee.

• Demonstrates genuine empathy, respect, and understanding when supporting individuals with disabilities and diverse learning, communication, and mental health profiles.
• Approaches all interactions with cultural humility and a commitment to fostering belonging, inclusion, and accessibility for every student.
• Shows a proactive, student‑centered mindset empowering individuals to identify their strengths, set personal goals, and advocate for their needs.
• Exhibits flexibility, patience, and creativity in responding to dynamic student needs and shifting priorities.
• Maintains a calm, supportive presence during high‑stress situations, utilizing trauma‑informed and strengths‑based approaches.
• Collaborates effectively with colleagues across departments to create holistic, consistent systems of student support.
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability in identifying opportunities for program enhancement, partnership development, and continuous improvement.
• Communicates clearly and compassionately, using…