Community Support Team (CST) Paraprofessional- Gastonia

The Community Support Team (CST) Paraprofessional plays a vital role in delivering 24/7/365 community-based mental health and substance abuse rehabilitative services. This position utilizes a team approach to support adults with complex mental health or substance use disorders in achieving recovery and rehabilitative goals. Services are provided in various environments, including residential, school, workplace, and community settings.

The CST Paraprofessional provides structured rehabilitative interventions to enhance the client’s ability to function successfully in the community. These services include crisis intervention, psychoeducation, symptom management, skill-building, and resource coordination.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide psychoeducation as outlined in the Person-Centered Plan (PCP).

Assist with crisis interventions and de-escalation as a first responder.

Support the Team Leader in implementing behavioral and substance abuse treatment interventions.

Collaborate on the development, implementation, and revisions of PCPs.

Develop relapse prevention and disease management strategies.

Communicate client progress and intervention effectiveness to the Team Leader.

Facilitate linkage and referrals to formal and informal supports.

Monitor client progress and provide follow-up support as needed.

Training Requirements

General Orientation, HIPAA, Client Rights, Confidentiality, CPR, First Aid, and Crisis Response (within 30 days of hire).

13 hours of Introductory Motivational Interviewing (MI) by a MINT Trainer.

12 hours of Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) training.

12 hours of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) training.

15 hours of Permanent Supportive Housing training.

3 hours of Trauma-Informed Care.

3 hours of Basics of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Functional Assessments.

Annual ongoing training in selected modalities (minimum of 10 hours).

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required; candidates without a diploma must have been employed in the MH/DD/SA field before November 1, 2001.

At least 1 year of experience working with clients with mental health or substance use disorders.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities tailored to the population and age group served.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

Valid driver’s license with personal vehicle insurance.

Must complete required training and certifications as outlined by the organization.

Work Environment

Work is primarily performed in client homes and community settings, which may include exposure to various environmental factors. The role requires travel, flexibility in scheduling, and reliable transportation. Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and occasional climbing or balancing.

Ethics and Compliance

All employees must adhere to company policies, local, state, and federal regulations, and the organization’s Code of Ethical Conduct. 

Other Requirements

Basic word processing skills or willingness to learn.

Flexibility in scheduling to meet client and team needs.

Reliable transportation for local travel.