FIRS Behavior Specialist

Join us at Ryther as a Behavior Specialist in our Family Intervention and Restorative Services (FIRS) Program! About Ryther: Ryther is a recognized leader in behavioral health services for children, youth, young adults, and their families facing complex challenges. We provide comprehensive, evidence-based, and innovative treatment across multiple levels of care. We guide, coach, and teach so that every client may experience new ways of thinking, build positive relationships, and realize a better life. Our social justice mission and trauma-informed framework guide our daily work and internal processes. About FIRS: Our Family Intervention Restorative Services (FIRS) program is a voluntary, detention-diversion initiative in King County that provides a safe, therapeutic alternative to juvenile detention for youth involved in incidents of juvenile family violence. Operated by Ryther through the FIRS Center, the program offers short-term, trauma-informed respite and stabilization following a family crisis. FIRS prioritizes safety, accountability, emotional regulation, and family reconciliation through restorative, non-punitive framework that reduces system involvement while supporting long-term family stability. The available Full-Time schedule is: Thursday - Saturday Swing 2pm to 10pm, Sunday Day 7am - 3pm, and Monday Grave 10pm - 6pm. We are also looking for people who would like to join us on an on-call basis! Position Summary: The Behavior Specialist I creates and maintains a positive, safe, and therapeutic environment while supporting clients in meeting their individualized treatment goals. This role provides direct client care, facilitates therapeutic groups, supports daily program routines, and collaborates within a multidisciplinary treatment team. Primary Responsibilities include, but not limited to: Facilitate and support daily program activities, including skills groups, meals/snacks, and outings Support clients in learning coping skills, emotional regulation, and behavior management Assist clients in progressing toward individualized treatment goals Promote a safe, affirming, and therapeutic environment Maintain appropriate professional boundaries Role model healthy communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills Complete daily clinical documentation in accordance with state and federal regulations. Case management and care coordination with external community and court providers. Assist with daily routines and client care tasks, including meal preparation when applicable Participate in ongoing training (eating disorders, neurodiversity, anxiety, OCD, DBT-informed care, etc.) Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team Additional responsibilities may vary depending on the assigned program. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree (mental health field preferred) OR High School diploma/GED with at least one year of combined education, training, or experience working with children, youth, and/or families (preferably in a mental health setting) Valid Washington State driver’s license Good driving record and ability to drive agency vehicles Ability to work effectively with individuals and families from diverse cultural, spiritual, and lifestyle backgrounds Commitment to applying a social justice and equity lens to all aspects of work Preferred Experience: Eating disorders Neurodivergent youth Anxiety and OCD DBT-informed care Higher levels of behavioral health treatment Teens and/or at-risk youth Benefits include: Medical/Dental/Vision 15 Days Paid Vacation (which increases to 17 after your second year, and by 1 each year after that – this is prorated to reflect your FTE as a part-time employee) 10 Sick Days (vacation & sick time rollover) 9 Paid Holidays + 1 Floating Holiday 40% off Aflac supplemental insurance + free identity theft protection 403b Tax Deferred Retirement Plan $50,000 Life Insurance Ryther is a registered 501c(3) which qualifies for the federal Student Loan Forgiveness program What We Value Commitment to Ryther’s mission, vision, and values Respect for diverse lifestyles, cultures, identities, and abilities Team-oriented mindset with strong self-management skills. Adaptability and a proactive approach to change and servant leadership. Ryther seeks to create a work environment reflective of the diverse community we serve. People of color, LGBTQIA2S+, persons with disabilities, and multilingual individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Work Location: Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center at 1211 E Alder St in Seattle We look forward to connecting with you!