Mental Health Specialist

Position Summary: The Mental Health Specialist supports the mental well-being of families enrolled in the Hillsborough HIPPY Parent Involvement Project (HHPIP). The MHS will develop a program for supporting the development and mental health of individuals and families, such as group and individualized counseling, coaching and education that strengthen functioning. This position ensures services are delivered using culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based practices under the supervision of the Program Director. The MHS will work with the Program Director to establish scope indicators and outcomes and would be accountable for the associated data and reporting by maintaining accurate documentation in compliance with funding requirements.

Duties: 

• Provide direct support to families via home visits, virtual sessions or telephone check-ins to enhance their understanding of mental health needs and treatment options, provide training and education,  and crisis management.

• Facilitate parent group discussions on mental health topics at group meetings.

• Maintain accurate documentation of services, referrals, and progress in compliance with program standards.

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case reviews.

• Promote family strengths and resilience using culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based practices.

• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical and professional standards at all times.

• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in mental healthcare, social work, psychology, human services, or a related field required. (Equivalent experience may be considered.)  Licensed mental health professional, Minimum of 2 years' experience working with families or children, or community outreach.

Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of mental health systems. Understanding of HIPAA and FERPA confidentiality requirements. Knowledge of evidence-based family support models and trauma-informed practices. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry systems. Bilingual (English/Spanish language) required.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit th