At Thresholds, we believe in meeting people where they’re at – in their community, on their journey to recovery, and in their own language. Thresholds was the first in the nation to offer comprehensive and integrated mental health services to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Community Support Specialists (CSS) within Thresholds’ Deaf Program provide mental health and substance use treatment support where it makes the most impact.
The Thresholds Deaf Program is the first and only program of its kind in Illinois, offering comprehensive community-based services for persons with serious mental illnesses who are deaf or hard of hearing. Staffed by employees fluent in the use of American Sign Language (ASL) who understand the unique cultural needs of the Deaf community, the Thresholds Deaf Program provides a full range of specialized services.
Working as a Community Support Specialist is a unique learning opportunity. Through care planning, you will be an integral part of a client’s growth and recovery. You will remove barriers to mental healthcare through case management: connecting our clients with resources and helping them navigate complex systems. You will help clients strengthen daily living skills as you drive them to doctors’ appointments, to benefits offices, or to the grocery store. Each day will be a little bit different, requiring you to adapt to your client’s schedule, needs, and treatment plan.
The culture at Thresholds is collaborative and supportive, providing you with the tools and resources you need for the best client care. Opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision, will deepen your knowledge and expand your clinical skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. This invaluable experience will set you up for a variety of career paths and growth opportunities within our organization.
To succeed in this role, you need:
Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) Passion for mental health advocacy and Deaf community Effective communication and relationship-building skills Good writing skills Strong time management and organization To be at least 21 years old A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car Willingness to provide transportation to clients Availability for substitute or on call
Many education and experience paths are eligible for this role:
Fluency in American Sign Language High school diploma or GED certificate Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field preferred
What sets Thresholds apart:
Competitive pay - Base Rate: $20.75 - $24.57 per hour / $43,000 - $51,000 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) Mileage reimbursement Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month) Public service loan forgiveness Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC) Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal
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.