Individual Support Specialist (DHI)

Individual Support Specialist (DHI)

Position Summary

The HCSP Individual Support Specialist provides one-on-one, community-based or facility-based day habilitation services designed to help individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) reach their maximum level of independence. Unlike a general HCSP, this role is highly specialized: you will be following the lead of the client’s Behavioral Consultant (BC), responsible to be a trusted implementer of the client’s Behavioral Support Plan (BSP).

You will be trained to work in “lock-step” with the client’s BC, collecting real-time data and applying specialized de-escalation and reinforcement techniques while the client engages in the community.

Key Responsibilities

  • Behavioral Implementation: Execute specific interventions outlined in the client’s BSP during DHI service hours.
  • BC Collaboration: Attend monthly or quarterly meetings with the BC to review progress, discuss triggers, and adjust strategies based on your daily observations.
  • Data Collection & Reporting: Maintain precise, hourly documentation (as required by Indiana’s 2026 mandates) of behavioral incidents, successes, and the efficacy of specific antecedents and consequences.
  • Skill Building (DHI Focus): Assist the client in developing social skills, community safety awareness, and emotional regulation in real-world settings (e.g., volunteer sites, parks, libraries).
  • Crisis Management: Utilize approved de-escalation techniques to manage challenging behaviors safely and professionally.
    • Policy Statement: Torres Behavioral Health utilizes a Non-Physical Intervention Policy. We do not utilize, train, or authorize the use of therapeutic holds or manual restraints. Our focus is strictly on environmental management, verbal de-escalation, and the proactive reinforcement of the Behavioral Support Plan (BSP).
  • DHI Billing Compliance: Ensure all shift notes satisfy Indiana Medicaid DHI requirements, linking daily activities directly to the client’s PCISP (Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan) goals.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Registry Requirement: Must be active on the Indiana HCSP Training Registry (or willing to complete the 12 core competencies during onboarding).
  • Education: Current College Student or Associated Degree in social work, psychology or related field required; Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or Special Education preferred.
  • Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years working with individuals with high-intensity behavioral needs or dual diagnoses.
  • Training: Must complete (or be willing to complete) competency-based training in:
    • Person-Centered Practices
    • On the Behavior Support Plan (If applicable)
    • On the Behavior Consultation Plan (If applicable)
  • Reliability: Valid Indiana Driver’s License, auto insurance, and a clean criminal background check.

Preferred Skills

  • Exceptional communication skills for “liaison” work between the family, the BC, and the agency.
  • A high degree of emotional intelligence and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Experience with digital documentation systems for Medicaid billing.
Job Category: HCBS Waiver Support Specialist
Job Type: Full Time Part Time W2 Employee
Job Location: Indiana Home & Community Based
Schedule: Flexible
Expected Hours: 3-35
Experience: 1-2 years preferred
Minimum Education: College Student Associate's Degree

Apply for this position

Role-Specific Screening

Position 1: Individual Support Specialist (DHI)
This role involves direct collaboration with Behavioral Consultants and the implementation of specific Behavioral Support Plans (BSP).

Policy Statement

Torres Behavioral Health utilizes a Non-Physical Intervention Policy. We do not utilize, train, or authorize the use of therapeutic holds or manual restraints. Our focus is strictly on environmental management, verbal de-escalation, and the proactive reinforcement of the Behavioral Support Plan (BSP).

Position 2: Support Staff (DHGS - Day Camp)

This role focuses on community integration, group dynamics, and facilitating recreational
activities.

Core Competencies (For All HCSPs)

Availability & Requirements

Allowed Type(s): .pdf, .doc, .docx