Mental Health Services Manager

Location: Austin, TX Program: Head Start & Early Head Start Status: Full-Time, Exempt Reports To: Head Start Director

About Us

Child Inc. is a leading provider of high-quality early childhood education and family support services in Travis County. Our mission is to empower children and families by fostering a nurturing environment that supports growth, learning, and well-being. As part of our commitment to whole-child development, we're seeking a compassionate and experienced Certified Play Therapist to serve as our Mental Health & Well-Being Manager to join our dedicated team.

Position Summary

As the Mental Health & Well-Being Manager, you will lead the implementation of a program-wide culture that supports mental health, emotional wellness, and social-emotional development for children, families, and staff. Using a multidisciplinary and trauma-informed approach, you will coordinate services, partner with mental health consultants, conduct observations, lead training, and ensure children receive the behavioral and therapeutic support needed to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote a culture of mental health and emotional well-being across the program
• Coordinate behavioral health screenings, consultations, referrals, and follow-ups
• Facilitate support plans and in-classroom behavior strategies (e.g., Conscious Discipline)
• Conduct training for parents and staff on mental health, wellness, and inclusion
• Collaborate with community partners and ISDs for specialized mental health services
• Supervise Behavioral Specialists and ensure monthly mental health consultations
• Maintain detailed documentation in ChildPlus and produce required reports
• Serve as an advocate for families accessing mental health support and services

What We're Looking For

Education & Credentials:

• Master's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, or related field
• Must be a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW's) or certified mental health professional in the state of Texas.

Experience:

• At least 2 years working with children and families in mental health settings
• Minimum 1 year of supervisory experience
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development and trauma-informed practices

Skills:

• Ability to coach staff, collaborate cross-functionally, and manage multiple priorities
• Knowledge of the Head Start Performance Standards and IDEA regulations
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with ChildPlus preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Other Requirements:

• Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and ability to travel locally
• Must pass background checks, physical exam, TB test, and complete child abuse training

Benefits

We value and support our team members with a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Affordable medical insurance with low individual premiums.
• Fully employer-paid benefits:
• Vision and dental insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Life insurance policy is valued at 2x your annual salary.
• Employee Assistance Program for wellness and support.
• Employer contribution of 5% of your annual pay into a 401(k)-retirement plan after 6 months of employment.
• Paid holidays, including seasonal breaks (One week in November, Two weeks in December/January, and One week in March).

Access free Gold Gym memberships to support your health and well-being

Why Join Child Inc.?

• Make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children and families
• Opportunities for professional growth and ongoing training
• A supportive, mission-driven work environment
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

Ready to support the well-being of our children and community? Apply today and help us build a brighter, healthier future!