Significant knowledge of developmental disabilities, familiarity with ADA and Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act (IDEA) guidelines, and inclusion.
The ability, understanding and compatibility to interact with families, professionals, and paraprofessionals within a multidisciplinary model of service delivery, using an approach that involves giving and receiving peer coaching.
Understanding of and respect for children with special needs and their families. Ability to be attentive to input from families regarding their child’s preferences by utilizing a strength-based approach with culturally competent practices.
Positive public relations attitude and approach when interacting with those we serve and the general public.
Organizational ability to work independently and take initiative to complete assignments within ESRC timelines.
Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people at all levels.
Operating knowledge of a computer, applications and software, standard office equipment and Microsoft (Outlook, Word and Excel). Must be able to use a work cell phone.
Basic Responsibilities:
Maintain emotional control under stress.
Adheres to Texas Health and Human Services and ESRC guidelines.
Participates in the planning and implementation of a comprehensive developmentally appropriate program for children with special needs and their families.
Participates as an evaluator and member of a multidisciplinary team that determines eligibility for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services. Supports the child and family through the evaluation process.
Administers, interprets, and shares results from comprehensive assessments.
Participates in the development of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) with the family and other team members.
As part of an IFSP team, helps families develop outcomes that are functional and based on children’s and families’ needs and family-identified priorities.
Provides Case Management services for families.
Pre-plans and debriefs with teammates in order to effectively coach families through routine-based activities which incorporate communication skills, motor skills (gross/fine), adaptive skills, cognitive skills, and social emotional/personal social skills, utilizing multidisciplinary model.
Provides direct services to children and their families, interprets and applies early intervention techniques, and ensures proper follow through and competence with techniques using a coaching approach.
Provides ongoing monitoring of the child and family’s needs, concerns, and strengths and assist with linking the child and family to appropriate resources.
Establishes and maintains cooperative and collaborative relationships with families and community agencies, public and private.
Maintains billable hours as outlined by the Texas Health and Human Services-ECI TAC Rule and keeps participant records in accordance to Federal, State, and ESRC requirements.
Attends and participates in staff and team meetings.
Provides services within natural environments (e.g. home, day care and community).
Participates and assists with the transition planning for children exiting the program.
Serves as the mentor for students and/or volunteers within the program.
Assists in maintaining a clean, hygienic, safe and “childproof” environment. Reports any safety concerns to the Program Director.
Participates in training sessions and continuing education.
Participates in and/or coordinates ESRC events (such as program activities, community fairs, fundraising, etc.), as requested.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited college or university program.
Current State of Texas license in Physical Therapy.
Current First Aid and CPR certification.
One (1) year minimum experience in providing physical therapy service is highly preferred.
Experience working with children with special needs in the field of early intervention is highly preferred.