START Therapeutic Coach

About the role

The START Therapeutic Coach provides evidence‑based, strengths‑based support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Working onsite at Allegheny County DHS, the coach collaborates with START coordinators and families to create safe, nurturing environments.

Key responsibilities

• Provide a supportive, encouraging environment for caregivers and clients.
• Deliver services outlined in the START Therapeutic Coaching Manual.
• Collaborate with the START clinical team to design culturally competent therapeutic strategies.
• Communicate biopsychosocial factors, intervention effects, and outcomes to the START team.
• Model and educate families to foster a safe home setting.
• Maintain timely documentation, session notes, and data entry in the START Information Reporting System (SIRS).
• Respond to safety concerns and report significant health changes.
• Uphold professional boundaries and adhere to ethical and licensing guidelines.
• Represent the START program positively with professionals, families, and the community.
• Participate in daily triage meetings with the START team and system partners.

Required profile

• Ability to build positive professional relationships with system partners, families, and caregivers.
• Working understanding of PERMA+, strength spotting, and evidence‑based assessments used by the START team.
• Knowledge of applicable regulations for the systems involved.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for senior management and stakeholders.
• Creative problem‑solving skills to maximize natural and community resources.

Required skills

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• Adobe software