Behavioral Intervention Specialist

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

The Behavioral Intervention Specialist (BIS) is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring person-centered Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and strategies for individuals receiving services across mental health (OMH) and OPWDD programs. Operating within a Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) framework, the BIS collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to optimize individual independence, manage human rights compliance, and minimize the use of restrictive interventions.

GENERAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assessments: Conduct person-centered Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify behavioral triggers, baseline functions, and environmental factors. Additional assessments, such as Home/Community Alone Assessments, Consent Assessments, Key Assessments, and others as requested.
• Plan Development: Author, monitor, and revise individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) ensuring strict adherence to 14 NYCRR Parts 633 and 635 regulations.
• Clinical Supervision Compliance: Coordinate plan reviews with the LCSW when incorporating restrictive/intrusive interventions or rights limitations.
• Staff Training: Facilitate comprehensive instruction for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and management teams on plan methodologies, proactive strategies, and data collection tools.
• Crisis Infrastructure: Provide hands-on guidance during behavioral crises utilizing proactive ABA strategies and, when necessary, agency-approved SCIP-R crisis intervention competencies.
• Governance Committees: Actively prepare documentation for and present plans to the Human Rights Committee (HRC) and Informed Consent / Incident Review Committees (IRC) as well as High Risk, Admissions, Department Meetings and other committees as required.
• Interdisciplinary Teamwork: Collaborate alongside Care Managers, Residential Managers, Nursing staff, and Psychiatrists/Providers to coordinate holistic clinical outcomes.
• Medicaid Documentation: Maintain real-time compliance with daily clinical tracking, progress notes, and supporting records in line with Medicaid and state auditing mandates.
• On-Site Monitoring: Regularly visit group homes and/or day programs to observe DSP implementation, audit behavior data accuracy, and adjust plans accordingly.
• Safeguard Supports: Provide safeguards, including emotional support and diminution as requested as part of allegation protections. Secure psychological recommendations as part of investigations.
• Additional Duties: As assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of NYS OPWDD regulations, Person-Centered Planning, and Trauma-Informed Care.
• Analytical Skills: High competency in behavioral data collection, graphical trend analysis, and evidence-based tracking methods.
• Crisis Control: Documented capability to manage crisis situations calmly and physically execute approved restrictive interventions if trained and certified.
• Systems Proficiency: Capability to manage electronic health records (EHR) systems alongside standard business application suites.
• On-Call Responsibilities: May be required to participate in on-call or after-hours behavioral consultation and crisis support based on program needs, departmental coverage, and assignment.
• Cross-Program Support: BIS staff may have a primary program assignment but remain part of the agency-wide Behavioral Services team and may provide cross-program support as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Master’s degree from a program in a clinical or treatment field of psychology, social work, school psychology, applied behavior analysis (ABA), or mental health counseling.
• Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of direct experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities AND/OR mental health diagnoses, including documented experience in FBA administration and BSP formulation.
• Certifications: National Board Certification in Behavior Analysis (BCBA), NYS License as a Behavior Analyst (LBA), or an approved clinical Master's degree satisfying the NYS 633.16(b)(32) Level 1 BIS requirements.
• Vetting Clearances: Must successfully pass background verifications via the NYS Child Abuse Registry, Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, and criminal fingerprinting databases.
• Physical Criteria: Valid NYS Driver’s License with a clean operating record. Ability to travel across program regional environments and physically stand, lift up to 50 lbs., or intervene during crisis events