Do you enjoy getting to know someone and coaching them towards achieving their goals related to work, relationships, and independent living? You could make a difference in someone’s life every day as a Residential Support Specialist (RSS) working with pregnant and parenting teens and young adults between the ages of 17-24.

Residential Support Specialists work one-on-one and in groups with youth experiencing mental health challenges. Within the residential setting, you will assist the clients as they learn and practice skills related to what matters most to young people: relationships, school success, recreational activities, health and wellness, early career experiences, and day-to-day living. You will also ensure safety by helping youth regulate and safely express their emotions, including using Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) skills. During an average day, you will teach independent living skills like hygiene and housekeeping, help residents prepare meals, model relationship building skills, and coach youth on coping skills.

Not only do you help clients develop key independent living skills, you are also fostering a safe and inviting living environment by regularly cleaning the residence. You will see their progress and document their experiences, success with medication management, and recovery process as they transition to adulthood.

To succeed in this role, you need:

Passion for mental health advocacy Effective communication and relationship-building skills Compassion and respect while working in someone’s home Patience and willingness to meet youth where they’re at Good writing skills and attention to detail A valid driver's license To be at least 23 years of age Willingness to work the following shift: Thursday - Monday 3pm - 11pm

There are multiple educational pathways to be eligible for this role:

High School diploma with at least 5 years of clinical experience and at least 25 years of age Associates degree or higher in the field of social services and at least 23 years of age

What sets Thresholds apart: 

Competitive pay – Base rate: $21.50 - 23.75 per hour / $44,720 - 49,400 annually
Subject to increase based on education and experience Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation) Dental insurance, vision insurance, choice of 4 medical insurance plans 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match  Robust employee assistance program (EAP) Cell phone resimbursement (up to $50/month) Public service loan forgiveness  Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC) 

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more.

One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.