Aftercare Specialist

TITLE: Aftercare Specialist                                                            DEPARTMENT: Inpatient Behavioral Health

REPORTS TO: IBH Director                                                            WAGE RANGE:  $34.00-$47.72 DOE/DOQ

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt                                                           SCHEDULE:  Varies 

REVISED DATE: 01/2026 

ABOUT HL7N 

We are a residential treatment center for youth with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, offering outpatient behavioral health and on-site medical services. Located on 55 peaceful acres, we provide a safe, supportive environment grounded in traditional, cultural, and spiritual values. Our holistic program blends Indigenous teachings with evidence-based practices to support healing, growth, and resilience in both Native and non-Native youth, fostering respect, honesty, generosity, and cultural identity. 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Aftercare Specialist plays a vital role in supporting youth as they transition from residential treatment back into their communities. Working closely with residents during their stay, this position is responsible for developing individualized aftercare plans that promote long-term recovery, stability, and success. The Aftercare Specialist collaborates with families, tribal representatives, probation officers, and community resources to ensure each youth has a strong support network and access to ongoing services. This role requires excellent communication, documentation, and follow-through to maintain continuity of care and track youth progress post-discharge. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

·         Build trusting relationships with youth during residential treatment to develop personalized aftercare plans.

·         Work in close collaboration with the resident’s primary counselor to design a comprehensive, culturally responsive aftercare plan that aligns with treatment goals and supports long-term success. 

·         Coordinate with families, tribal representatives, probation officers, and community providers to identify culturally appropriate and trauma-informed resources.

·         Maintain regular communication with youth and families post-discharge to monitor progress. 

·         Update and maintain a comprehensive resource guide for community services, including housing, education, employment, mental health, and substance use support. 

·         Document all case management activities, communications, and progress notes in accordance with agency and regulatory standards. 

·         Track youth outcomes and engagement with aftercare services to inform program improvements and reporting.

·          Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to ensure continuity of care and alignment with treatment goals. 

·         Advocate for youth needs and help navigate barriers to accessing services in their home communities. 

·         Respond to crises or setbacks with compassion and solution-focused support, involving appropriate parties as needed.

·          Uphold professionalism, respect, and confidentiality in all interactions with youth, families, and external partners. 

·         Provide support and backup coverage for groups and/or intake functions. 

·         Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness in fast-paced situations, including unexpected discharges or urgent transitions, ensuring aftercare planning remains thorough and timely. 

·         Assist with transitional logistics, which may include helping residents manage items such as cell phones or other tools that support their reintegration and communication needs. 

·         Some participation in community networking events to build relationships with external service providers, strengthen referral pathways, and promote awareness of available resources. 

·         May be present during youth discharge, including outside of standard business hours, to support smooth transitions and ensure aftercare plans are activated effectively 

·         Other duties assigned.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

Candidates must meet the minimum educational and experience requirements for the position and demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant applications. 

·         Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling or other related field required – OR – willing to consider a combination of experience and/or education that demonstrates ability to perform successfully in the position.

·         Minimum of 2 years in case management, youth services or behavioral health. 

·         Knowledge of adolescent development, trauma-informed care, and substance use recovery

·         Familiarity with tribal communities, probation systems, and culturally responsive practices. 

·         Strong communication, organization, and documentation skills. 

·         Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, residential setting. 

·         Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic health record systems. 

·         Valid driver’s license 

·         Experience in facilitating therapeutic groups preferred

PHYSICAL DEMAND 
While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be required to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; bend, stoop, or crouch; lift and/or move up to 10 pounds; use hands to handle or feel objects and reach with arms; and communicate clearly and effectively in person and by phone. Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 
Work is typically performed in an indoor, collaborative setting. The noise level is moderate, and interactions frequently involve communication and teamwork beyond basic work instructions. 

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

For full-time employees (30+ hours per week), HL7N provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote health, well-being, and financial stability. These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting and valuing our team members. 

·         100% medical, dental and vision insurance premium is paid by HL7N first of the month after 60 days of employment. 

·         Up to $6,000 health reimbursement annually via Navia Debit Card for eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses. 

·         $75,000 life insurance policy and disability benefits, 100% employer-paid after 90 days (FT EE). 

·         22 days of paid time off (PTO) annually, plus 12 paid holidays and up to 8 sick days per year (after 90 day probationary period). Employees are eligible for a Wellness Week after one year of employment.

·         Employees are eligible for a 403(b) Retirement Plan with up to a 6% employer contribution after 12 months of employment, contingent upon working at least 1,000 hours. 

·         HL7N qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

This job description is not intended to list all duties or limit responsibilities. The Healing Lodge reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, or requirements as necessary. Every employee is expected to contribute to the success of the organization by performing assigned tasks and assisting as needed. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT 

The Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. As a tribal organization operating with an agreement with the Indian Health Services (IHS) and pursuant to our Board’s direction, the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations is required by law to provide absolute preference in employment to American Indians and Alaska Natives who are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe as defined by the Secretary of the Interior. Proof of tribal enrollment is required for Indian Preference consideration.